Ingredients:
For the Banana Bread Brownies:
- 1-1/2 cups Sugar
- 1 cup Sour Cream
- 1/2 cup Butter (softened)
- 2 Eggs
- 1-3/4 (or 3-4) Ripe Bananas (mashed)
- 2 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 2 cups All-Purpose Flour
- 1 tsp Baking Soda
- 3/4 tsp Salt
- 1/2 cup Chopped Walnuts (optional)
For the Brown Butter Frosting:
- 1/2 cup Butter
- 4 cups Powdered Sugar
- 1-1/2 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 3 tbsp Milk
Directions:
- Prepare the Oven and Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease and flour a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan to ensure that the bars don’t stick.
- Make the Banana Bread Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine sugar, sour cream, softened butter, and eggs. Use an electric mixer or a whisk to beat everything together until it’s creamy and smooth.
- Next, mix in the mashed ripe bananas and vanilla extract. Continue to beat until everything is well combined.
- Gradually add in the flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix for about 1 minute to ensure everything is well-blended.
- If you’re adding walnuts, fold them into the batter at this point.
- Bake the Bars:
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
- Bake at 375°F for about 20 to 25 minutes or until the bars turn golden brown. To check if they are done, insert a toothpick in the center, and if it comes out clean, they are ready.
- Prepare the Brown Butter Frosting:
- While the bars are baking, melt the butter for the frosting in a large saucepan over medium heat. Allow the butter to come to a boil and then continue cooking until it turns a delicate golden-brown color.
- Once the butter has browned, remove it from heat immediately to prevent it from burning.
- Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk to the browned butter. Whisk the mixture together until it’s smooth. The consistency should be thicker than a glaze but thinner than traditional frosting. If it’s too thick, add a little more milk to get the right texture.
- Frost the Bars:
- Once the banana bread brownies have baked and are still warm, use a spatula to spread the brown butter frosting evenly over the bars. The frosting will be easier to spread when the bars are still warm, allowing it to melt slightly into the cake.
- Let it Cool and Serve:
- Allow the bars to cool for a few minutes before cutting into squares and serving. Enjoy the deliciously moist banana bread brownies with the rich, nutty frosting!
Q&A:
Q: Can I substitute the sour cream?
A: Yes, you can use Greek yogurt or even buttermilk as a substitute for sour cream. Both will add moisture and a slight tang to the batter.
Q: Can I use frozen bananas instead of fresh ones?
A: Yes, frozen bananas work great for this recipe! Just make sure to thaw them out and mash them well before adding them to the batter.
Q: Is the frosting necessary?
A: The frosting adds a rich and nutty flavor, but if you prefer a lighter dessert, you can skip it. The banana bread brownies on their own are still delicious without it.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, though the texture might vary slightly. Be sure to use a blend that contains xanthan gum for the best results.
Q: How should I store leftover banana bread brownies?
A: Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week.
Benefits:
- Rich in Potassium: The ripe bananas used in this recipe are an excellent source of potassium, which is vital for heart health and muscle function.
- Provides Healthy Fats: The walnuts in the batter (if included) provide heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and antioxidants.
- High in Fiber: Bananas and the optional walnuts also add fiber to your dessert, promoting digestive health and keeping you fuller longer.
- Boosts Energy: The sugar and sour cream provide a quick energy boost, while the brown butter frosting adds a rich and indulgent finish that makes this a perfect treat for a sweet craving or special occasion.
This recipe combines the comfort of banana bread with the indulgence of brownies and a rich frosting, creating a treat that’s both cozy and satisfying!