Banana Brownie Bars

Banana Brownies mix the tender, juicy feel of banana bread with the indulgent taste of traditional brownies. This tasty combo gets even better with a luscious brown butter topping that adds a sweet, caramel taste and smooth texture with every bite. If you love banana bread or can't resist brownies, this treat gives you the greatest parts of both in one delicious dessert.

INGREDIENTS

• Mashed ripe bananas: 1 cup, gives natural banana sweetness
• Milk: 3 tablespoons, creates smooth frosting texture
• Vanilla extract (for frosting): 1 1/2 teaspoons, adds flavor depth
• Powdered sugar: 4 cups, makes frosting sweet and thick
• Butter (for frosting): 1/2 cup, creates brown butter base
• Salt: 1/4 teaspoon, balances sweetness
• Baking soda: 1 teaspoon, helps brownies rise
• All-purpose flour: 2 cups, forms the base structure
• Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon, brings out flavor notes
• Sour cream: 1 cup, keeps everything moist and soft
• Eggs: 2 large, holds everything together
• Granulated sugar: 1 cup, adds sweetness
• Butter, softened: 1/2 cup, makes batter rich

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 10:

After brownies cool completely, spread the brown butter frosting on top. Cut into squares and dig in.

Step 9:

Combine the browned butter with powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until you get a smooth, creamy frosting.

Step 8:

For the topping, heat butter in a pan over medium heat until it turns brown. Take it off the heat right away so it doesn't burn.

Step 7:

Cool the brownies fully in the baking dish on a wire rack.

Step 6:

Put the batter evenly into your greased baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes until a toothpick stuck in the middle comes out clean.

Step 5:

Gently mix in the mashed bananas.

Step 4:

In another bowl, mix flour, baking soda, and salt. Slowly add these dry ingredients to your wet mixture, stirring just until they're combined.

Step 3:

Mix in eggs one by one, stirring well after each. Add sour cream and vanilla extract to the mix.

Step 2:

In a big bowl, beat the soft butter and sugar together until it looks fluffy and pale.

Step 1:

Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle a bit of flour inside.

Serving and Storage Tips

• You can warm these treats slightly before eating for an extra gooey, melty experience.
• Keep these goodies in a sealed container at room temp for up to 3 days.

Helpful Notes

• Try adding a tiny bit of cinnamon or nutmeg to the brown butter to make the frosting even more flavorful.
• For stronger banana taste, go with super ripe bananas that have lots of brown spots.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

• Alton Brown says to lightly dust your pan with flour so the brownies don't stick to it.
• Ina Garten recommends using really good vanilla extract to make the banana and brown butter flavors pop.

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Conclusion

Moist banana bread and thick brownies collide in these Banana Brownie Bars. Ripe bananas and sour cream create a soft texture with a hint of vanilla. Topped with smooth, nutty brown butter frosting, they’re a treat made for sharing—or keeping all to yourself. Easy to prepare and even easier to love, these bars are any dessert fan’s dream! Serve them whenever you need a sweet fix or at gatherings to impress.