Directions to follow
Preheat and Prep: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the granulated sugar, sour cream, and softened butter until smooth.
Combine with Eggs and Bananas: Add the eggs, mashed bananas, and vanilla extract into the mixture. Stir until everything is well combined.
Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to ensure a tender brownie.
Bake: Pour the batter into your prepared dish and smooth out the top. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool Bars: Allow the bars to cool completely in the dish.
Make the Glaze: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 1/2 cup of butter. Cook it until it’s golden brown, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
Mix Glaze Ingredients: Remove from heat and whisk in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth.
Glaze Brownies: Pour the glaze over the cooled banana bread brownies, spreading it evenly. Let it set before slicing and serving.
Best ways to enjoy it
Served warm or at room temperature, these banana bread brownies are divine on their own, but you can elevate the experience. Try serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on the side for an indulgent touch. Fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce can also complement their flavors beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, pair your brownies with a nutty coffee or chai tea for a delectable afternoon treat.
Keeping leftovers fresh
To keep your Banana Bread Brownies at their best, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, consider freezing them. Slice and individually wrap portions in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll retain their deliciousness for up to three months! Just thaw overnight in the fridge before indulging again.
Helpful cooking tips
Choose Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the better! Look for ones with plenty of brown spots as they are sweeter and enhance the flavor of the brownies.
Don’t Overmix: When combining your wet and dry ingredients, stir until just combined to keep your brownies tender and not cakey.
Brown Butter Perfection: For the glaze, browning the butter can add depth to the flavor. Watch it closely, though – once it starts to brown, it can go from perfect to burnt quickly!
Creative twists
Feel free to play with this recipe! Experiment by adding in chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even a swirl of peanut butter or Nutella into the batter for an extra layer of flavor. You could also incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced taste. For a fun visual, consider sprinkling colorful sprinkles on top of the glaze before it sets.
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare and bake?
The total time for preparation and baking is about 40–50 minutes. After that, allowing the brownies to cool and the glaze to set will take an additional 30 minutes.
Can I use less sugar or substitute ingredients?
Yes! You can reduce the sugar to suit your taste, or use alternatives like honey or maple syrup. However, keep in mind that this may change the texture of your brownies slightly.
How do I safely freeze and thaw these brownies?
Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and store them in a freezer-safe container. To thaw, simply move them to the refrigerator overnight before enjoying.
Are there any dietary adjustments I can make?
Absolutely! You can make these brownies gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Additionally, for a dairy-free option, use coconut or almond milk and a plant-based butter.
Indulge in these Banana Bread Brownies; they’re more than just a dessert – they’re a lovely way to use up those ripe bananas and satisfy your sweet tooth. Enjoy baking!
