Banana Bread Brownies

Banana Bread Brownies combine the best of both worlds—moist, flavorful banana bread and fudgy brownies—all in one irresistible bar. Made with overripe bananas, sour cream, and melted butter, these treats are rich, tender, and comforting. The signature brown butter frosting elevates the dessert with a nutty caramel aroma. Easy to whip up in one bowl and bake in a 9×13 pan, they make a perfect snack, dessert, or coffee companion. A delightful way to use up ripe bananas, these bars are guaranteed to impress friends and family with their decadent taste and simple preparation.

Ingredients (makes ~12 bars) 

For the brownies:

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed

• 1½ cups granulated sugar

• 1 cup sour cream

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

• 2 large eggs

• 2 tsp vanilla extract

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp baking soda

• ¾ tsp salt

• ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)

For the brown butter frosting:

• ½ cup butter

• 3 cups powdered sugar

• 1½ tsp vanilla extract

• 3 Tbsp milk (adjust as needed)
  
  

Directions 

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 13×9-inch baking pan.

2. In a large bowl, beat together sugar, sour cream, softened butter, and eggs until smooth.

3. Fold in mashed bananas and vanilla until well combined.

4. Gently stir in flour, baking soda, and salt—mix just until no dry streaks remain.

5. Optionally fold in walnuts for crunch.

6. Spread batter evenly in prepared pan and bake 25 minutes, until the top is lightly golden and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

7. While baking, prepare frosting: melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk until it becomes medium-brown and nutty—watch carefully.

8. Remove from heat and whisk in powdered sugar gradually, then vanilla and milk until smooth and creamy.

9. Remove baked bars from oven; let cool slightly (warm but not hot). Pour frosting over them and spread evenly.

10. Let cool completely before cutting into squares.
    
    

Nutrients (per serving; 12 servings total; estimates) 

• Calories: ~310 kcal

• Protein: ~3 g

• Total Fat: ~14 g

  • Saturated Fat: ~8 g

• Carbohydrates: ~45 g

  • Sugar: ~~28 g

  • Fiber: ~~1 g

• Sodium: ~~180 mg