These banana bread brownies are a delightful fusion of moist banana bread and rich, fudgy brownies. They’re made with ripe bananas, buttery brown sugar, and a hint of vanilla. Perfectly balanced with optional chocolate chips or walnuts, they’re a sweet, comforting treat everyone will love!
Ingredients
- For the Brownies:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 medium ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 cup)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips (optional but highly recommended)
- For the Creamy Brown Butter Frosting (optional but amazing):
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
- 1-2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Directions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- Make the Brownie Batter:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and mashed bananas. Mix until fully combined.
- Sift in the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Do not overmix!
- If using walnuts or chocolate chips, fold them in now.
- Bake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Prepare the Frosting (optional):
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, stirring constantly until it turns golden brown and gives off a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- In a bowl, whisk the brown butter with powdered sugar, cream, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency with more cream or powdered sugar as needed.
- Cool and Frost:
- Let the brownies cool completely in the pan. Spread the frosting evenly over the top. If desired, sprinkle extra walnuts or a drizzle of melted chocolate on top for decoration.
- Slice and Serve:
- Use the parchment overhang to lift the brownies from the pan. Slice into squares and serve.