Banana Bread Brownies

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Banana Bread Brownies combine the rich, moist texture of classic banana bread with the indulgent, cake-like crumb of a brownie—topped with a smooth, creamy frosting that takes them over the top. Each bite delivers the comforting flavor of ripe bananas and warm vanilla, balanced by just the right amount of sweetness. It’s a treat that’s both nostalgic and exciting, perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up, a cozy brunch addition, or an easy dessert to impress guests.

Unlike your traditional banana bread loaf, these brownies are cut into thick, soft squares that melt in your mouth. They’re less dense but still incredibly moist, with a delicate crumb and a buttery frosting layer that gives them a polished bakery finish. This is the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves banana-flavored baked goods but craves something a bit more special than a standard loaf.

Why You’ll Love This Banana Bread Brownies Recipe

• A cross between banana bread and frosted cake-like brownies.
• Ultra-moist texture with the richness of ripe bananas.
• Easy to make with common pantry staples.
• Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or snack.
• The frosting adds a decadent touch without being too sweet.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Equipment)

To make Banana Bread Brownies successfully, you’ll want to prepare your tools ahead of time. A stand mixer or hand mixer is key for creaming the butter and sugar properly, which affects texture. A 9×13-inch baking pan ensures even baking and gives the brownies their signature shape. Mixing bowls—one large and one medium—keep wet and dry ingredients organized. A rubber spatula helps you fold ingredients gently, while a cooling rack allows the brownies to cool evenly before frosting. Lastly, a good offset spatula or butter knife will help you apply that luscious layer of frosting smoothly.

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Preparation Tips

Use overripe bananas with plenty of brown spots—they provide natural sweetness and moisture that make the brownies incredibly soft. Don’t overmix once you add the dry ingredients; gentle folding will maintain a tender crumb. Bake until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean—don’t wait until it’s dry! Cool completely before frosting, or the frosting will melt and slide. For a more luxurious bite, consider adding chopped walnuts or mini chocolate chips into the batter.

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Ingredients for this Banana Bread Brownies Recipe

For the Brownies:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups mashed ripe bananas (about 3-4 medium bananas)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup sour cream (for added moisture)
• Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans, 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

For the Frosting:

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3-4 cups powdered sugar (adjust for consistency)

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Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. This helps ensure the brownies don’t stick and makes cleanup simple.

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Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy. This step builds the base for the airy texture of the brownies.

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Step 3: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add the vanilla extract and continue mixing until fully incorporated.

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Step 4: Mix in the Bananas and Sour Cream

Add the mashed bananas and sour cream to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined. This mixture will look slightly lumpy due to the bananas, and that’s perfectly fine.

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Step 5: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently with a rubber spatula or on low speed until no flour streaks remain.

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Step 6: Optional Add-Ins

Fold in chopped nuts or mini chocolate chips if using. These add a delightful crunch or melty chocolate surprise in every bite.

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Step 7: Pour and Bake

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown and the edges slightly pulling away from the sides.

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Step 8: Cool Completely

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan on a wire rack. This is crucial before applying the frosting to avoid melting.

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Step 9: Make the Frosting

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Remove from heat and stir in milk and vanilla. Gradually whisk in powdered sugar until smooth and spreadable. Adjust the amount of sugar for a thicker or thinner consistency.

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Step 10: Frost and Serve

Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled banana brownies using an offset spatula or butter knife. Let the frosting set for about 15 minutes before slicing into squares.

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Notes

Banana Bread Brownies are incredibly forgiving, making them ideal for beginner bakers and pros alike. The key to perfect texture lies in using very ripe bananas—they should be heavily spotted or even turning black for optimal sweetness and moisture. You can customize this recipe by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even a dash of cinnamon for extra depth. The frosting can be swapped with a cream cheese version if desired. Also, letting the brownies rest overnight enhances flavor and texture, making them even better the next day.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using underripe bananas: This can result in dry, bland brownies. Always go for bananas that are very ripe.
• Overmixing the batter: Once the flour is added, mix gently to avoid tough or dense texture.
• Underbaking or overbaking: Check with a toothpick around the 25-minute mark. Overbaking dries them out quickly.
• Frosting too soon: Wait until completely cool or the frosting will melt and turn runny.
• Too much sugar in frosting: Add powdered sugar gradually and taste as you go. It’s easy to over-sweeten.

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Storage Instructions

Store the frosted banana bread brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days. If you need to store them for an extended period, freeze the unfrosted brownies tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before frosting and serving.

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Estimated Nutrition (per serving, assuming 12 servings)

• Calories: 385
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 54g
• Sugar: 37g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 210mg
• Cholesterol: 60mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

How ripe should the bananas be?

The riper, the better. Bananas should have plenty of brown spots and feel soft to the touch.

Can I make these brownies without frosting?

Yes! They’re still delicious on their own or with a dusting of powdered sugar.

Can I use frozen bananas?

Absolutely. Thaw them completely and drain off any excess liquid before using.

What’s the best way to mash bananas?

A fork works fine, but for an extra smooth texture, use a potato masher or hand mixer.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, simply use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture may vary slightly.

How do I make them dairy-free?

Swap butter for vegan butter and use a plant-based milk for the frosting.

Can I double the recipe?

You can double the recipe and bake it in two 9×13 pans or one large sheet pan. Adjust baking time accordingly.

Do these brownies taste like banana bread or cake?

They’re a hybrid—moister than cake, softer than traditional banana bread, with a fudgy brownie vibe.

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Conclusion

Banana Bread Brownies are the perfect answer to overripe bananas and dessert cravings. Their soft, moist base and sweet, buttery frosting make them a standout treat for any occasion. Easy to make, easy to store, and customizable to your taste—this recipe is a keeper you’ll turn to again and again. Whether for potlucks, holidays, or weekday baking, these brownies never disappoint.

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