Name: Banana Bread Brownies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup butter; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup brown sugar; 2 eggs; 1/2 cup sour cream; 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 cups powdered sugar; 3 tablespoons milk; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Soft, moist, and topped with a dreamy glaze, Banana Bread Brownies are the perfect mash-up of classic banana bread and chewy, sweet brownies. They bring together the homey comfort of ripe bananas with the indulgent texture of a blondie-style treat. If you’re sitting on a couple of overripe bananas and craving something cozy yet unique, this is the dessert you didn’t know you needed.

These banana-infused bars are a game-changer. The richness of butter and brown sugar paired with the natural sweetness of banana creates a dessert that’s dense and tender. And let’s not forget the simple glaze that soaks into the warm bars, giving them that bakery-style finish with minimal effort. It’s the kind of recipe you whip up once and then find yourself making every single time your bananas start to spot.

Why You’ll Love This Banana Bread Brownies Recipe

These brownies are not your average chocolate squares. They take a fruity, buttery turn that feels both nostalgic and new. You’ll love how easily they come together with basic pantry staples, and how they fill your kitchen with a rich, banana-butter aroma. They’re great for lunchboxes, potlucks, or just because your sweet tooth said so.

And here’s the kicker: the texture is perfectly soft with just a bit of chew. No dry, cakey banana bread here – just bars that slice clean, hold together beautifully, and melt in your mouth.

Can I Add Chocolate or Nuts to These?

Absolutely! These banana bread brownies are a great base for all kinds of additions. Stir in chocolate chips if you’re feeling decadent, or chopped walnuts for a little crunch. A sprinkle of sea salt on top can bring out the caramel notes too. Just be sure not to overdo it on add-ins, as too much moisture can affect the texture. A half cup of chocolate or nuts is plenty for balance.

Ingredients for the Banana Bread Brownies

The beauty of this recipe is that it uses everyday ingredients but combines them in a way that gives extraordinary flavor. Every component plays a role in creating the soft, rich, glazed banana brownie experience.

Butter – Adds richness and moisture to the batter.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the brownies while allowing the banana flavor to shine.
Brown Sugar – Brings a caramel depth and extra softness.
Eggs – Bind the batter and give structure.
Sour Cream – Keeps the crumb tender and adds a slight tang.
Ripe Bananas – The star ingredient, full of natural sweetness and flavor.
All-Purpose Flour – Forms the base and gives body.
Baking Soda – Helps the brownies rise just enough.
Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
Vanilla Extract – Adds warmth and depth.

How To Make the Banana Bread Brownies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars

Start by creaming the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. This is key to a soft texture.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the sour cream, mashed bananas, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Add this dry mixture to the wet batter and mix until just combined. Don’t overmix.

Step 4: Bake

Spread the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan and smooth the top. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 5: Glaze While Warm

While the brownies are still warm, prepare a simple glaze with powdered sugar, milk, and a splash of vanilla. Pour it over the warm bars and let it set as they cool.

Serving and Storing These Banana Bread Brownies

These bars are the kind that somehow taste even better the next day. Once cooled, slice them into squares and store them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh at room temperature for about 3 days or up to a week in the fridge.

Planning ahead? They also freeze well. Just layer parchment between slices and freeze in a sealed container. Let them thaw at room temperature before serving.

This recipe feeds about 12 generous squares, but you can easily cut them smaller for bite-size treats.

What to Serve With Banana Bread Brownies?

Fresh Berries

The natural tartness of berries like raspberries or blackberries balances the sweetness of the brownies.

Whipped Cream

A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a soft contrast in texture and flavor.

Greek Yogurt

For a breakfast spin, serve a square alongside a scoop of vanilla or honey Greek yogurt.

Hot Coffee

These bars and a cup of dark roast coffee are a match made in heaven.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Serve slightly warm brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert.

Caramel Sauce

Drizzle a little warm caramel over the top for an extra indulgent finish.

Cream Cheese Frosting

Skip the glaze and frost the cooled brownies with tangy cream cheese frosting for a banana cake twist.

Want More Banana Dessert Ideas?

If you love these Banana Bread Brownies, try these other delicious banana treats:

Frozen Banana Yogurt Pops for a healthy, chilled treat.
4-Ingredient Banana Greek Yogurt Cheesecake when you want something rich but easy.
Cinnamon Sugar Air Fryer Banana Chips for a crispy snack.
One Bowl Banana Chocolate Muffins perfect for busy mornings.
Decadent Caramel Banana Pecan Cake if you’re in the mood to impress.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try chocolate chips or stick to the classic glaze? Maybe you made a double batch?

I love seeing how you make these recipes your own. Ask questions, share tips, or tell us your favorite add-ins.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and more desserts on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your next kitchen obsession.

Conclusion

Banana Bread Brownies are the kind of sweet you turn to when you want comfort and a little indulgence in one bite. They’re simple to whip up, packed with banana flavor, and loved by adults and kids alike. Whether for a bake sale, a quiet Sunday at home, or a surprise for a friend, these brownies are always the right move.