Description
These Banana Bread Brownies combine the rich, moist texture of banana bread with the fudgy, indulgent qualities of brownies. Enhanced with a smooth vanilla glaze and optional chopped nuts, they are perfect for a delicious dessert or snack. Baked to perfection, these bars offer a delightful balance of sweetness and banana flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Brownies
- 1 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 large bananas)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Glaze
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan and Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang to allow for easy removal of the brownies once baked.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs, mashed bananas, and vanilla extract, mixing all ingredients until thoroughly combined.
- Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined to avoid overmixing. If using, fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and let the brownies cool completely in the pan before glazing.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Remove the pan from heat and whisk in the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until the glaze is smooth and pourable.
- Glaze the Brownies: Pour the prepared glaze evenly over the cooled brownies, spreading with a spatula to cover the surface uniformly. Allow the glaze to set at room temperature for about 15 to 20 minutes.
- Slice and Serve: Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the brownies out of the pan. Slice into 16 bars and serve.
Notes
- Make sure bananas are very ripe for the best flavor and sweetness.
- Do not overmix the batter; overmixing can lead to dense brownies.
- Optional nuts add great texture but can be omitted for nut-free versions.
- Allow brownies to cool completely before glazing for the best glaze texture.
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
