There’s something irresistibly comforting about the combination of bananas and chocolate, and when you transform that into Banana Bread Brownies, magic happens! Picture this: you open your oven door to reveal warm, chewy bars that perfectly blend the richness of chocolatey brownies with the moistness of classic banana bread. This delightful creation, topped with a luscious brown butter frosting, is the ultimate treat for any occasion.

I discovered this gem one rainy afternoon while trying to rescue some overripe bananas from my kitchen counter. With a bit of creativity, I turned what could have been a waste into a sweet success story. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy moment with your morning coffee or planning a dessert for a gathering, these Banana Bread Brownies are sure to impress. Did I mention they’re incredibly simple to make? Trust me, you’ll want these decadent bars in your baking repertoire! Let’s dive in and whip up a batch that’s guaranteed to bring smiles all around.

Why Love Banana Bread Brownies?

Irresistible Flavor: The delightful fusion of banana and chocolate creates a rich, comforting taste that’s hard to resist.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, these Banana Bread Brownies come together quickly, even on a busy day.
Versatile Servings: Enjoy them warm with ice cream, or pair with coffee for a cozy snack—it’s always a crowd-pleaser!
Ripe Bananas Are Key: Using overripe bananas ensures maximum sweetness and flavor, rescuing them from waste.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering or a treat just for you, these bars are sure to impress!
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepping the batter in advance means you can have these delicious treats ready with minimal fuss.

Banana Bread Brownies Ingredients

For the Brownies

Sugar – Provides sweetness; substitute with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
Sour Cream – Adds moisture and richness; yogurt can be used as a substitute.
Butter (Softened) – Provides fat for richness and texture; can use margarine if needed.
Eggs – Bind ingredients together and add moisture; aquafaba is a vegan alternative.
Ripe Bananas (Mashed) – Offers natural sweetness and flavor; about 3-4 bananas will suffice.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; optional but recommended for depth.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
Baking Soda – A leavening agent; ensure it’s fresh for best results.
Salt – Enhances all flavors; sea salt can add a unique taste.
Chopped Walnuts (Optional) – Adds crunch and nuttiness; can be omitted for nut-free brownies.

For the Brown Butter Frosting

Butter (for Frosting) – Provides richness; use unsalted for better control of sweetness.
Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness and texture; no direct substitute; adjust for desired sweetness.
Vanilla Extract (for Frosting) – Brings additional flavor to the frosting.
Milk – Helps achieve desired frosting consistency; can substitute with almond milk for a dairy-free version.

Get ready to create these delicious Banana Bread Brownies topped with rich brown butter frosting that will surely be a hit!

How to Make Banana Bread Brownies

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 15×10 inch jelly roll pan. This prepares your baking surface for the delightful goodness to come!
Beat together sugar, sour cream, softened butter, and eggs in a large bowl until creamy and well combined. This mixture should look fluffy and inviting.
Mix in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract, ensuring they blend seamlessly into the batter. This step adds that unbeatable natural sweetness!
Combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt into the mixture, blending for just 1 minute. If you’re using walnuts, fold them in gently until evenly dispersed.
Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye out for a golden brown top and use a toothpick to check that it comes out clean!
Prepare the frosting by heating butter in a saucepan over medium heat, allowing it to boil and turn brown, then remove immediately. This step adds that nutty flavor we all love!
Whisk powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk into the browned butter until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if needed—make it just how you like it!
Spread the frosting generously over the warm brownies for easy, smooth application. Trust me, this is the best way to top your treats!

Optional: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Banana Bread Brownies?

Indulge your senses with the perfect pairings for your warm, chocolatey bars that will elevate every bite.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts beautifully with the warm brownies, enhancing their rich flavors.
Fresh Berries: Plump raspberries or strawberries add a refreshing tartness that contrasts with the sweetness of the brownies, brightening your plate.
Coffee or Espresso: The deep, bold flavors of coffee create a comforting balance with the dessert, making it a perfect afternoon treat.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds a luxurious touch, plus it complements the rich brown butter frosting effortlessly.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce takes your brownies to the next level of indulgence—double the chocolate, double the joy.
Nutty Granola: A sprinkling of nutty granola on top adds a delightful crunch and some wholesome goodness, turning dessert into a delightful snack.
Milk: A classic pairing! A cold glass of milk softens the richness and is perfect for dipping those fudgy corners.
Coconut Cream: This adds a tropical flair, providing a delightful creaminess that enhances the banana notes in your brownies.

With these delectable accompaniments, you’re sure to create an unforgettable experience for every lucky guest!

Banana Bread Brownies Variations

Feel free to get creative and put your own spin on these delightful Banana Bread Brownies!

Nutty Delight: Add chopped pecans or hazelnuts for an extra crunch and layer of flavor. The warm nuts pair beautifully with the sweetness of the brownies!
Chocolate Explosion: Mix in semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for an abundance of chocolatey goodness. This twist will satisfy any chocolate cravings!
Coconut Bliss: Incorporate shredded coconut into the batter for a tropical flair. The chewy texture elevates these brownies to a new level of delicious!
Spiced Twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor. This creates a comforting aroma that will fill your kitchen.
Cream Cheese Frosting: Swap the brown butter frosting for a tangy cream cheese frosting. The creaminess complements the sweetness of the brownies perfectly.
Maple Glaze: Drizzle a simple maple glaze over the top instead of frosting for a sweet surprise. It adds a cozy vibe that’s perfect for fall!
Vegan Option: Use aquafaba instead of eggs and coconut oil in place of butter for a vegan-friendly version of these brownies. They’re just as delicious and guilt-free!
Dulce de Leche Swirl: Dollop rich dulce de leche into the batter before baking for a caramel surprise in every bite. It’s decadence at its finest!

Expert Tips for Banana Bread Brownies

Ripe Bananas Matter: Ensure your bananas are very ripe to maximize sweetness and moisture. Brown and speckled is ideal!
Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until combined to keep the brownies tender. Overmixing can lead to tough bars—nobody wants that!
Brown Butter Magic: Watch your butter closely as it browns; you want a nutty aroma without burning it. It’s the secret to the frosting’s depth!
Frost While Warm: Spread the brown butter frosting over the brownies while they’re warm for easier application and a delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Optional Add-ins: Don’t hesitate to customize your Banana Bread Brownies—add chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture and flavor!

Storage Tips for Banana Bread Brownies

Room Temperature: Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and fresh for quick snacking or dessert.
Fridge: Keep the brownies refrigerated if you want to extend freshness; they can be stored for up to 1 week. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to avoid drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Banana Bread Brownies in an airtight container, layered with parchment paper, for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge or at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating: If you prefer them warm, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. The frosting will get slightly melty, making them even more indulgent!

Make Ahead Options

These Banana Bread Brownies are a lifesaver for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings! You can prepare the brownie batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix all the ingredients and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Additionally, the frosted brownies can be stored individually in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature, maintaining their soft texture. When you’re ready to serve, just warm the brownies slightly in the oven and enjoy the warm, indulgent comfort of freshly baked Banana Bread Brownies without the fuss!

Banana Bread Brownies Recipe FAQs

What type of bananas should I use for Banana Bread Brownies?
Absolutely! Using very ripe bananas is key to achieving the best flavor and sweetness. Look for bananas that are brown and speckled rather than just yellow, as this indicates they are soft and sweet, perfect for mashing and incorporating into your batter.

How should I store Banana Bread Brownies?
You can store your Banana Bread Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, and they’ll stay deliciously soft! If you want to extend their lifespan, refrigerate them for up to 1 week. Just make sure they’re wrapped well to prevent them from drying out!

Can I freeze Banana Bread Brownies?
Very! For longer-term storage, freeze your Banana Bread Brownies in an airtight container, with layers of parchment paper between them. They will stay good for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply leave them in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours.

How can I troubleshoot if my brownies come out too dry?
If your brownies turn out too dry, it may be due to overbaking or insufficient moisture in the batter. Always check for doneness a couple of minutes before the recommended baking time using a toothpick; it should come out with moist crumbs, not completely clean. Also, ensure your bananas are very ripe and thoroughly mashed, as they contribute essential moisture.

Are Banana Bread Brownies suitable for those with nut allergies?
Yes! If you have nut allergies, you can easily omit the chopped walnuts from the recipe with no problem at all. The brownies will still be delicious and satisfying without them, so feel free to enjoy this treat without any worries about allergies!

Do I need to frost my Banana Bread Brownies?
Not at all! While the brown butter frosting adds a rich, decadent layer to the brownies, they can be enjoyed just as they are. If you prefer a lighter option, enjoy them plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar for a lovely touch, but I always recommend trying them with the frosting at least once!