Banana Bread Brownies

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Banana Bread Brownies with Brown Butter Glaze

A perfect fusion of moist banana bread and rich, nutty glaze, these banana bread brownies are irresistibly tender and sweet. The brown butter glaze takes them to the next level, making this recipe ideal for dessert, brunch, or even a sweet snack.

Ingredients

For the Banana Bread Bars:

  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and balances the banana flavor.
  • 1 cup sour cream: Makes the bars moist and tender.
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Enhances richness and flavor.
  • 2 large eggs: Binds the ingredients together and adds structure.
  • 4 ripe bananas, mashed: Provides natural sweetness and a soft texture.
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic flavor.
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour: Gives structure to the bars.
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the bars rise slightly and stay light.
  • ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.

For the Brown Butter Glaze:

  • ½ cup unsalted butter: The base for the glaze, browned for depth of flavor.
  • 4 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the glaze.
  • 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds warmth and aroma.
  • 3 tablespoons milk (plus more if needed): Adjusts the consistency of the glaze.

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Sheet

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Grease and line a 10×15-inch baking sheet (jelly roll pan) with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.

Step 2: Make the Banana Bread Batter

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar, sour cream, softened butter, and eggs. Use a hand or stand mixer on medium speed to beat until smooth and creamy (about 2 minutes).
  2. Add the mashed bananas and vanilla extract. Mix until well incorporated.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix just until combined—overmixing can result in dense bars.
  4. Pour the batter into the prepared baking sheet, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

Step 3: Bake the Bars

  1. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  2. Remove from the oven and let the bars cool slightly in the pan (about 10 minutes).

Step 4: Prepare the Brown Butter Glaze

  1. While the bars are cooling, prepare the glaze. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, continue cooking, stirring constantly, until the butter turns golden brown and smells nutty (about 5-7 minutes).
  2. Immediately remove the pan from the heat to prevent burning.
  3. Whisk in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk, one teaspoon at a time, if needed.

Step 5: Glaze the Bars

  1. Pour the warm glaze over the slightly cooled bars. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to spread it evenly to the edges.
  2. Allow the glaze to set at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cutting.

Serving and Storage

  • Cut the bars into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference.
  • To store: Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
  • To freeze: Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Tips and Variations

  • Add-ins: Fold in chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips to the batter for extra texture and flavor.
  • Make it healthier: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, and use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream.
  • Dairy-free option: Use dairy-free butter and almond milk for the glaze and batter.

These banana bread brownies are guaranteed to be a hit with their luscious texture and caramelized glaze. Perfect for any occasion, they’re easy to make and utterly delightful!

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