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Banana Bread Brownies

Decadence in a pan – these banana bread brownies combine the best of two beloved treats. Enjoy a moist, cake‐like brownie infused with rich banana flavor and topped with a dreamy vanilla frosting that elevates every bite.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Brownies
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (200g)
  • 1 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt, 240ml)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened (113g)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 4 ripe bananas mashed (about 2 cups)
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (250g)
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts optional (60g)
For the Frosting
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (113g)
  • 4 cups powdered sugar (480g)
  • 1.5 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 3 tablespoons milk (plus more if needed for spreading)

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Separate bowl (for dry ingredients)
  • Toothpick

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing and flouring it or lining it with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup granulated sugar, 1 cup sour cream, and 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter until light and fluffy.
  3. Beat in 2 large eggs, 4 mashed ripe bananas (about 2 cups), and 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract until smooth and well-incorporated.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 3/4 teaspoon salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
  5. Fold in 1/2 cup chopped walnuts if using. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to the corners.
  6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the brownies to cool completely.
  7. While the brownies are cooling, prepare the frosting by combining 1/2 cup unsalted butter, 4 cups powdered sugar, 1.5 teaspoons pure vanilla extract, and 3 tablespoons milk. Adjust with additional milk if needed for a smooth, spreadable consistency.
  8. Once the brownies are completely cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top.

Notes

This recipe is a sweet hybrid of banana bread and brownies, offering a moist, flavorful bar with a luscious vanilla frosting. You can experiment by adding chocolate chips or switching walnuts for dried cherries. Be careful not to overmix the batter to keep the brownies tender. They make an excellent treat for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack and are even better the next day.