Indulge in the delightful fusion of two beloved treats with these Banana Bread Brownies. This recipe combines the moist, comforting flavors of banana bread with the fudgy goodness of brownies, creating a dessert that’s both unique and utterly satisfying. Topped with a rich, buttery frosting, these brownies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family gathering or a special celebration.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
These Banana Bread Brownies offer the best of both worlds: the sweetness and texture of banana bread combined with the decadence of brownies. They are incredibly easy to make, requiring only simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. The addition of walnuts adds a delightful crunch, while the frosting elevates these brownies to a whole new level of deliciousness. Plus, they are perfect for using up overripe bananas, making them a great choice for reducing food waste.
Introduction
Banana Bread Brownies are a delightful twist on the classic banana bread recipe, bringing together the rich, moist texture of banana bread and the indulgent taste of brownies. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also allows for creativity in the kitchen. Whether you are a seasoned baker or a novice, these brownies are sure to impress. The combination of bananas, sugar, and butter creates a luscious batter that bakes into a soft, chewy treat. Topped with a luscious frosting, these brownies are irresistible and perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Ingredients:
For the Brownies:
- 2 eggs
- 3 bananas, mashed
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
For the Frosting:
- 1/2 cup butter
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons milk
Preparation:
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 13 x 9-inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2:
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the sugar, sour cream, softened butter, and eggs until the mixture is creamy and well combined. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the batter, leading to a lighter texture.
Step 3:
Add the mashed bananas and vanilla extract to the mixture, blending them in until fully incorporated. The bananas not only add sweetness but also moisture, making the brownies incredibly soft.
Step 4:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, blending for about one minute until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense brownies.
Step 5:
Fold in the chopped walnuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. Then, pour the batter into the greased baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Frosting Note:
While the brownies are baking, prepare the frosting. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat until it turns a medium brown color, which adds a nutty flavor to the frosting. Be sure to watch it closely to prevent burning.
For the Frosting:
Remove the saucepan from the heat and whisk in the powdered sugar. Gradually add milk to achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract.
Suggestions for Presentation:
Once the brownies have cooled slightly, pour the frosting over the warm brownies and use a spatula to smooth it out evenly. Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting them into squares. For an extra touch, you can sprinkle additional chopped walnuts on top of the frosting or drizzle with chocolate for a more decadent finish.
Tips:
- For best results, use overripe bananas as they are sweeter and more flavorful.
- Feel free to substitute the walnuts with chocolate chips or pecans for a different flavor profile.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Time Estimates:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 350 kcal per serving
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 150mg
Conclusion
These Banana Bread Brownies are a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of banana bread in a fun and indulgent format. With their moist texture, rich frosting, and the added crunch of walnuts, they are sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Perfect for any occasion, these brownies will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let’s get baking!
Questions and Answers
- Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes, frozen bananas work perfectly! Just thaw them and mash them before adding to the batter. - What can I substitute for sour cream?
You can use plain yogurt or buttermilk as a substitute for sour cream in this recipe. - How should I store leftover brownies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for longer shelf life. - Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring that it is suitable for baking. - What is the best way to serve these brownies?
Serve them at room temperature or slightly warmed, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for an extra treat!
