Banana Bread Brownies are the dreamy dessert you didn’t know you needed. These bars combine the moist texture of banana bread with the richness of brownies—and top it off with a warm, buttery frosting. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or a cozy baking day, this recipe uses sour cream and mashed bananas to deliver unmatched softness. Add a hint of crunch from walnuts and a luscious brown butter frosting, and you’ve got a crowd-pleaser that’s impossible to resist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are a dozen reasons to fall in love with Banana Bread Brownies, but here are four that make it a must-bake:
- Super Moist Texture: Sour cream and bananas make these brownies soft and tender.
- No Mixer Needed: Simple mixing, all in one bowl.
- Frosted Goodness: Brown butter frosting adds a rich, nutty finish.
- Perfect for Overripe Bananas: Waste not, want dessert!
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned baker, this one’s a hit.
History & Fun Facts About Banana Bread Brownies
Banana Bread Brownies are a hybrid dessert that blossomed from two American staples:
- Banana bread became popular in the 1930s as a way to use up overripe bananas.
- Brownies were first made in the late 19th century and quickly gained popularity.
- The frosted banana brownie variation grew from Midwest potluck culture.
- The brown butter frosting adds a gourmet twist, making it both nostalgic and elevated.
Key Ingredients in Banana Bread Brownies
- Mashed Bananas – Natural sweetness and moisture.
- Sour Cream – Keeps the brownies rich and soft.
- Butter – Adds richness to both the batter and the frosting.
- Eggs – Bind the ingredients and give structure.
- All-Purpose Flour – The base for your thick, brownie-like texture.
- Baking Soda – Helps the bars rise.
- Walnuts – Add texture and nutty flavor.
- Powdered Sugar & Milk – Create the smooth, spreadable frosting.
How to Make Banana Bread Brownies
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 13×9-inch baking pan. - Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, beat together sugar, sour cream, softened butter, and eggs until smooth and creamy. - Add Bananas and Vanilla
Stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract until well blended. - Add Dry Ingredients
Mix in the flour, baking soda, and salt. Blend for about 1 minute. - Fold in the Walnuts
Stir in chopped walnuts gently for added crunch. - Bake
Spread the batter evenly into your greased pan. Bake for 25 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean. - Cool Before Frosting
Let the brownies cool slightly—warm, not hot—before adding frosting. - Make the Frosting
In a saucepan, heat butter over medium heat until golden brown. Remove from heat and whisk in powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk gradually to get a smooth texture. - Frost and Set
Pour the frosting over the warm brownies. Smooth with a spatula. Let cool fully before slicing.
Banana Bread Brownies Tips and Twists
Tips for Perfect Results
- Use bananas with lots of brown spots for sweetness.
- Watch the butter carefully while browning—it can burn quickly.
- Frost while warm for the best melt-in effect.
- Don’t skip the walnuts—they balance the sweetness.
- Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter.
Fun Variations
- Add Chocolate Chips for extra richness.
- Top with Coconut Flakes before frosting for a tropical twist.
- Use Greek Yogurt instead of sour cream for a slight tang.
Storage, Reheating, and Make-Ahead Tips
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days or in the fridge up to 5 days.
- Reheating: Microwave for 10–15 seconds to soften the frosting and bring back that fresh-baked feel.
- Make-Ahead: Bake and frost the day before. Chill and slice just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Banana Bread Brownies pair well with a variety of sides and drinks:
- Hot Coffee or Latte – Cuts the sweetness and brings warmth.
- Vanilla Ice Cream – For a decadent dessert plate.
- Fresh Berries – Adds color and brightness.
- Cinnamon-Spiced Whipped Cream – A fun seasonal twist.
- Mini Dessert Trays – Great for parties and potlucks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I skip the walnuts?
Yes, or substitute with pecans or chocolate chips.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
What if I don’t have sour cream?
Use Greek yogurt or buttermilk.
Can I freeze them?
Yes! Freeze in layers with parchment paper between them.
Why brown the butter?
It adds a nutty, rich depth that regular melted butter just can’t match.
Enjoy Your Banana Bread Brownies
Banana Bread Brownies are more than just a dessert—they’re a celebration of flavor and texture. From the soft, banana-rich base to the velvety brown butter frosting, every bite delivers comfort and satisfaction. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So grab those ripe bananas and get baking—you won’t regret it!
Explore More Recipes
Love desserts with a twist? These recipes from Abby’s Recipes are sure to satisfy:
- For a festive start to your day, try Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes.
- Need a savory balance? These Grilled Chicken Wraps are perfect for lunch.
- Craving creamy, cheesy comfort? Don’t miss our Chicken Alfredo Lasagna.
- Dessert more your thing? Our No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake is quick and crowd-pleasing.
- Try Chocolate Fudge Cake for another rich and satisfying treat.
Banana Bread Brownies
Ingredients
For the Brownies:
- 2 large eggs
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
For the Frosting:
- 1/2 cup butter
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 tbsp milk
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 13×9-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, beat together sugar, sour cream, softened butter, and eggs until creamy.
- Stir in mashed bananas and vanilla.
- Add flour, baking soda, and salt. Blend for 1 minute.
- Fold in chopped walnuts.
- Spread batter evenly in the pan. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden.
- For the frosting, brown butter in a saucepan. Remove from heat.
- Whisk in powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Pour over warm brownies and spread evenly. Cool before slicing.