This irresistible fusion of banana bread and fudgy brownies creates pure magic in just 35 minutes. The perfect solution for overripe bananas and chocolate cravings, these Banana Bread Brownies deliver a moist, rich texture that’s simply unforgettable.
With only 254 calories per serving, you can indulge in these decadent treats without the guilt. The natural sweetness of bananas perfectly complements the deep chocolate notes, making every bite a delightful experience.
Main Ingredients
- Sugar & Butter Base: 1-1/2 cups granulated sugar, 1/2 cup softened butter – brings sweetness and richness
- Moisture Elements: 1 cup Greek yogurt, 2 eggs, 3-4 ripe bananas – creates perfect texture
- Dry Components: 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tsp baking soda, 3/4 tsp salt – forms structure
- Flavor Enhancer: 2 tsp vanilla extract – adds depth
Glaze Ingredients
- Base: 4 Tbsp butter, 2 cups powdered sugar – creates smooth texture
- Finishing: 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1-2 Tbsp milk – perfect consistency
Baking Instructions
- Preparation: Heat oven to 375°F and prepare 9×13 pan with cooking spray
- Mix Base: Cream sugar and butter until fluffy, then blend in yogurt, eggs, bananas, and vanilla
- Combine Dry: Add flour, baking soda, and salt, mixing until just combined
- Bake: Spread in pan, bake 23-28 minutes until toothpick comes out clean
Glaze Instructions
- Brown Butter: Heat butter until golden brown with nutty aroma
- Mix Glaze: Whisk in powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth
- Finish: Pour warm glaze over warm bars and spread gently
Brown Butter Tips
Making brown butter might feel scary at first, but it’s easier than you think! Keep your eyes on the pan and watch as the butter turns a pretty golden color – it usually takes about 5-7 minutes. You’ll smell a wonderful nutty aroma when it’s ready.
My favorite trick is to use a light-colored pan so you can see the color change clearly. If you see tiny brown specks at the bottom, that’s totally fine – those bits add amazing flavor!
Mix and Match
This recipe is super flexible! Not a fan of Greek yogurt? Regular sour cream works just as well. Your bananas should be nice and spotty – the riper, the better for natural sweetness.
Want to skip the nuts or swap them? Go for it! Try pecans instead of walnuts, or add some chocolate chips for extra yumminess. The frosting can be adjusted too – if it’s too thick, add tiny splashes of milk until it’s just right.
Storage Tips
These banana bread brownies stay fresh and yummy for 3-4 days when kept in an airtight container. Pop them in the fridge if your kitchen is warm. Want to save some for later? They freeze beautifully! Just wrap them well (without the frosting) and freeze for up to 2 months.
Let them thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy them again. Add fresh frosting once they’re at room temperature.
Serving Ideas
These bars are amazing slightly warm, when the frosting is still a bit gooey! Try them with your morning coffee or as an afternoon treat. Want to make them extra special? Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top while they’re still warm, or drizzle with a little caramel sauce. They’re perfect for bake sales, potlucks, or just sharing with friends!
Banana Bread Brownies
Equipment
- 9×13 inch pan
Ingredients
For the Banana Bread Bars
- 1-1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
- 1/2 cup butter softened
- 2 large eggs
- 3-4 ripe bananas mashed
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
For the Glaze
- 4 Tablespoons butter
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 Tablespoon milk
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees F and grease a 9×13 inch pan with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, cream together the sugar and butter. Beat in the sour cream and eggs, bananas and vanilla extract.
- Add the flour, baking soda, salt, and mix just until moistened. Stir in walnuts, if using.
- Spread batter evenly into prepared pan and bake for 23-28 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, or with few crumbs.
- Make frosting while the bars bake.
- For the Brown Butter Frosting: Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Allow it to come to a simmer until it starts to turn a delicate brown and has a nutty aroma (watch carefully so you don’t burn the butter!) Remove from heat immediately.
- Whisk in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract and 1 tablespoon of milk until smooth. (Add a little more powdered sugar, or milk, if needed to thicken or thin the frosting). Pour the warm frosting over the warm bars. Spread gently with the back of a spoon.
