Description
Looking for a cozy dessert that’s equal parts comforting and indulgent? These Banana Bread Brownies are the perfect blend of soft banana bread and frosted cake-like brownies, topped with a rich, buttery frosting. This easy recipe transforms overripe bananas into a moist, flavorful treat that works for breakfast ideas, quick desserts, or as a sweet snack for any occasion. With minimal prep and everyday ingredients, it’s the kind of easy recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re looking for food ideas for brunch, dinner ideas for dessert, or just a healthy snack alternative with natural fruit sweetness—this one delivers.
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups mashed ripe bananas (about 3-4 bananas)
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or mini chocolate chips (optional)
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup whole milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 to 4 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Mix in the mashed bananas and sour cream until just combined.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture.
6. Fold in nuts or chocolate chips, if using.
7. Pour batter evenly into prepared pan and bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting.
9. For the frosting, melt butter in a saucepan, remove from heat, and stir in milk and vanilla. Gradually whisk in powdered sugar until smooth.
10. Spread frosting over cooled brownies. Let set for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and moisture.
Don’t skip cooling before frosting—this keeps the frosting thick and creamy.
Add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips give extra texture and flavor variety.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 385
- Sugar: 37g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 60mg