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Banana Bread Brownies with Nutty Frosting Recipe

4.8 from 66 reviews

Banana Bread Brownies combine the rich, moist texture of banana bread with the fudgy indulgence of brownies. This recipe includes a nutty browned butter frosting that perfectly complements the sweet bananas and crunchy pecans. Ideal as a dessert or a snack, these bars are easy to make and sure to delight banana and chocolate lovers alike.

Ingredients

Scale

Brownies:

  • 2 Eggs
  • 1 ½ cup White Sugar
  • 1 cup Regular Sour Cream
  • 1 Stick Unsalted Butter (Room Temp)
  • 3 Large Ripe Bananas (Mashed)
  • 2 tsp Pure Vanilla Extract
  • 2 cup All-Purpose Flour
  • 1 tsp Baking Soda
  • ¾ tsp Kosher Salt
  • 2 cup Pecans (Chopped)

Frosting:

  • ½ cup Unsalted Butter
  • 3 cup Powdered Sugar
  • 1 ½ tsp Pure Vanilla Extract
  • 3 tbsp Whole Milk

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a 9×13 inch baking pan with nonstick spray and line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the brownies.
  2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the white sugar, sour cream, room temperature butter, and eggs. Use an electric mixer to blend until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
  3. Add Bananas and Vanilla: Stir in the mashed ripe bananas and pure vanilla extract until fully incorporated into the mixture.
  4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and kosher salt to evenly distribute the leavening and seasoning.
  5. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet banana mixture, stirring just until combined to avoid overmixing which can toughen the brownies.
  6. Add Pecans and Pour Batter: Fold in the chopped pecans evenly throughout the batter, then pour the mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
  7. Bake the Brownies: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 20-30 minutes. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely in the pan.
  8. Bake the Frosting Butter: In a heavy skillet over medium heat, melt the ½ cup of unsalted butter and continue to cook until it turns a light brown color with a nutty aroma, careful not to burn it.
  9. Make the Frosting: Immediately pour browned butter into a mixing bowl. Gradually add powdered sugar, stirring continuously to blend well after each addition. Then add whole milk and vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer to beat until the frosting is smooth and creamy.
  10. Frost the Brownies: Spread the browned butter frosting evenly over the cooled brownies. Cut into bars and serve.

Notes

  • You can use thawed frozen bananas for convenience, but drain excess liquid to avoid soggy batter.
  • If you prefer, omit pecans or substitute with walnuts, chocolate chips, or your favorite nuts.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
  • Banana bread brownies can be frozen for up to three months; wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
  • Try different frosting variations such as cream cheese or chocolate ganache for alternative flavors.

Keywords: Banana Bread Brownies, Banana Brownies, Brownies with Bananas, Brown Butter Frosting, Nutty Brownies, Homemade Brownies, Dessert Recipe