Banana Brownies Recipe with Brown Butter Frosting

There’s just something about banana desserts that hits differently. It’s like the cozy sweater of the baking world—warm, comforting, and totally satisfying. And when you take that banana goodness and fold it into a soft, cake-like brownie base, then top it all off with a nutty, melt-in-your-mouth brown butter frosting? Well, now you’ve got yourself a showstopper.

This banana brownies recipe is one of those sweet surprises that turns overripe bananas into something seriously special. It has that nostalgic banana bread flavor, but it’s elevated with rich, buttery notes and a soft, tender crumb that’s more like a brownie than anything else. Then comes the frosting—a silky, sweet brown butter glaze that soaks gently into the top, creating the perfect harmony between richness and sweetness.

I first stumbled upon this idea when I had an extra bunch of ripe bananas on my counter and absolutely no desire to make banana bread for the fifth time in a row. I wanted something different. Something indulgent. And something that would disappear quickly at a family gathering. I started playing with the idea of banana cake and banana blondies, and eventually landed here. The result? A thick, moist brownie that feels light and fluffy, yet is decadently rich thanks to the sour cream and butter. My family went absolutely wild for them—and they’ve been a regular part of our dessert rotation ever since.

What makes this recipe even more amazing is how simple it is to pull together. It uses pantry staples and comes together in under an hour. Whether you’re baking for a potluck, holiday dessert table, or just a cozy weekend treat, these banana brownies are going to be a crowd favorite. Let’s talk about why they deserve a place in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This banana brownies Recipe

There are so many reasons to love these banana brownies, and once you’ve tried them, I promise they’ll become a go-to recipe in your home. First, they’re incredibly easy to make. You don’t need any special equipment—just a couple of bowls, a whisk, and a spatula. That’s it. It’s the kind of recipe that’s perfect for when you want a no-fuss dessert that still looks (and tastes) like something from a fancy bakery.

One of the standout features of these brownies is their texture. The combination of mashed bananas and sour cream gives them a moist, tender crumb that practically melts in your mouth. They’re soft and cake-like but still have enough density to satisfy your brownie cravings. Then there’s the flavor. The bananas bring natural sweetness and fruitiness, while the brown butter frosting adds a deep, toasty, caramel-like finish that takes the whole thing over the top.

This recipe is also super flexible. Don’t like pecans? Leave them out. Want to make it nut-free? No problem. You can customize the topping, skip the frosting (though I highly recommend keeping it!), or even drizzle it with chocolate if that’s your style.

Kids love these because they taste like banana bread and frosting in one bite, and adults love them because they’re just the right amount of indulgent. They also pack up beautifully for school lunches, picnics, or afternoon tea with friends. Whether you serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoy them chilled from the fridge, they’re guaranteed to make people smile.

Plus, these banana brownies are a brilliant way to reduce food waste. Got bananas that are too brown to eat? Don’t toss them—bake them. This dessert makes use of the ripest bananas, turning them into something truly irresistible. If you’ve been stuck in a banana bread rut, this recipe is your delicious ticket out.

Health Benefits of this banana brownies recipe

Now, while we wouldn’t exactly call banana brownies a health food, there are definitely some nutritional perks worth highlighting—especially if you’re using this dessert as a fun way to sneak in a few more wholesome ingredients.

Let’s start with the bananas. Ripe bananas are loaded with potassium, which is great for maintaining healthy blood pressure and muscle function. They also contain dietary fiber, which supports digestion and helps keep you feeling full. And the best part? The riper the banana, the sweeter it is—meaning you don’t have to use quite as much refined sugar to get that luscious, naturally sweet flavor.

Next up, we have the sour cream. In addition to adding amazing moisture and richness to the brownies, sour cream also provides calcium and a bit of protein. If you opt for a full-fat version, it can also help your body absorb fat-soluble vitamins from the rest of your meal or snack. And if you’d prefer a lighter option, you can easily swap in Greek yogurt without sacrificing texture or taste.

Now let’s talk about the pecans. If you choose to include them, they bring in heart-healthy fats, fiber, and a good dose of antioxidants. Nuts like pecans have been shown to support cardiovascular health and help keep blood sugar levels stable when eaten in moderation. They also add a satisfying crunch and nutty richness to every bite.

Even the brown butter frosting, indulgent as it may seem, is made with real ingredients—no mystery additives or preservatives here. Using real butter and milk means you’re skipping the ultra-processed icing tubs, and while it’s definitely a treat, at least you know exactly what’s in it.

And finally, let’s not forget the emotional and social benefits. Baking at home can be a relaxing, creative process that brings a sense of accomplishment and joy. Sharing homemade treats with friends and family can help build connections, create memories, and spread happiness—one banana brownie at a time.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information of this banana brownies recipe

Let’s break down the prep and cooking time so you know exactly what to expect before you tie on your apron.

Total Time Required
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 25 minutes
Cooling Time: 20–30 minutes
Frosting Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 70–80 minutes

Servings
This recipe yields 12 to 16 brownies, depending on how large you cut them. If you’re slicing them for a party platter or bake sale, you could even stretch it to 20 small squares.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 16 servings)
Calories: 310
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Sodium: 170mg
Carbohydrates: 42g
Sugar: 30g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 3g

These numbers will vary slightly depending on the specific brands and any substitutions you make, but this gives you a good idea of what you’re working with. And remember, it’s totally okay to enjoy a treat—especially one this delicious. Balance is key.

Ingredients List of this banana brownies recipe

This recipe keeps things nice and simple with basic pantry ingredients, and most of them are probably already in your kitchen. Here’s everything you’ll need for both the banana brownies and the luscious brown butter frosting.

For the Banana Brownies:

• 2 large eggs – They help bind everything together and give the brownies a lovely structure.
• 1½ cups white granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and helps create a tender texture.
• 1 cup sour cream – Gives the brownies extra moisture and richness.
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature – Creamy and flavorful, this is your fat base for the brownies.
• 3 large ripe bananas, mashed – The star of the show! Make sure they’re brown and spotty for maximum flavor.
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract – Adds warmth and depth to the flavor.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour – Your classic baking flour to give the brownies structure.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the brownies rise and stay light.
• ¾ teaspoon kosher salt – Balances out the sweetness and enhances the flavor.
• 2 cups chopped pecans (optional) – These add a delightful crunch and a nutty richness. Totally optional, but highly recommended.

For the Brown Butter Frosting:

• ½ cup unsalted butter – The key to brown butter frosting. Make sure it’s real butter for best results.
• 3 cups powdered sugar – Also known as confectioners’ sugar, this gives the frosting its signature smoothness.
• 1½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract – Rounds out the flavor of the frosting beautifully.
• 3 tablespoons whole milk – Helps thin out the frosting to a spreadable consistency.

Make sure to measure everything carefully, especially the flour and sugar. Too much of either can throw off the balance, so use a light hand or a kitchen scale if you have one.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions of this banana brownies recipe

This is where the magic happens. Let’s walk through the process step by step so you can bake these banana brownies with total confidence. Don’t worry—every step is easy to follow, and I’ll include a few extra tips along the way to help make it even smoother.

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray. For even easier cleanup and to prevent sticking, line the bottom with parchment paper, allowing a bit to hang over the edges for lifting the brownies out later.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar, sour cream, softened butter, and eggs. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed to blend everything until the mixture is smooth, pale, and slightly fluffy. This should take about 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Bananas and Vanilla

Next, add the mashed bananas and vanilla extract to the bowl. Beat or stir until everything is just combined. At this stage, the batter might look a little lumpy—that’s totally okay.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients Separately

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This helps distribute the leavening and salt evenly throughout the batter.

Step 5: Mix It All Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet banana mixture. Stir gently with a spatula or wooden spoon just until no flour streaks remain. Be careful not to overmix here—overworking the batter can lead to dense brownies.

Step 6: Fold in the Pecans (Optional)

If you’re using pecans, fold them in now. You can toast them ahead of time for even more flavor, but raw pecans work beautifully too.

Step 7: Bake the Brownies

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 30 minutes. Begin checking at 20 minutes by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, they’re done.

Step 8: Cool Completely

This part is important. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before adding the frosting. Warm brownies will melt the frosting and create a runny mess (though still delicious!).

Step 9: Make the Brown Butter Frosting

While the brownies are cooling, it’s time to make the frosting. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Keep cooking, stirring constantly, until the butter starts to foam and turn golden brown. You’ll see brown specks forming on the bottom of the pan and smell a delicious, nutty aroma. This takes about 5 to 7 minutes.

Once the butter is browned, remove it from the heat immediately and pour it into a mixing bowl to stop the cooking process.

Let it cool for 5 minutes, then whisk in the powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk. Stir until smooth and pourable. If it’s too thick, add a splash more milk. If it’s too thin, sift in a bit more powdered sugar.

Step 10: Frost the Brownies

Pour the warm frosting over the cooled brownies. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to spread it evenly across the surface. Let the frosting set for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until it firms up slightly and becomes glossy.

Step 11: Slice and Serve

Use a sharp knife to cut the brownies into squares. Wipe the blade between cuts for clean edges. Now they’re ready to serve!

How to Serve this banana brownies recipe

These banana brownies are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. Whether you’re enjoying them as a quick treat at home or showing them off at a party or potluck, you’ve got lots of delicious ways to make the most of this dessert.

One of the simplest and most satisfying ways to serve them is just as they are—cut into squares, placed on a pretty dessert plate, and enjoyed with a hot cup of tea or coffee. The contrast between the soft banana base and the rich brown butter frosting is already a flavor and texture dream.

If you want to elevate things a little, try warming a brownie square in the microwave for 10–15 seconds and serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The warmth of the brownie gently melts the ice cream, and the creamy texture balances beautifully with the dense, banana-filled bite. A drizzle of caramel or chocolate syrup over the top wouldn’t hurt either.

Another fun serving idea is to cut the brownies into bite-sized squares or rectangles and serve them as part of a dessert board. Pair them with chocolate-dipped strawberries, nut clusters, and cookies for a beautiful, crowd-pleasing spread.

For gatherings like baby showers, brunches, or afternoon teas, you can slice the brownies into smaller portions and place them in decorative paper liners. They’ll look polished and festive without any extra effort.

If you’re serving these to kids, you can even get creative with toppings. Sprinkle with mini chocolate chips, chopped dried bananas, or colorful sprinkles right after frosting for a playful twist.

And finally, if you’re planning ahead, these brownies travel really well. Pack them up in an airtight container and bring them to your next event or picnic. Just make sure to keep them in a cool place so the frosting stays firm and smooth.

Pairing Suggestions

Now that we’ve covered how to serve them, let’s talk about what goes best with these banana brownies. The rich, fruity flavor and buttery frosting make them incredibly adaptable to a range of pairings—whether you’re going for a casual snack or a more polished dessert experience.

Starting with beverages, a freshly brewed cup of coffee is always a winning choice. The natural bitterness of coffee balances the sweetness of the brownies, especially if you use a dark roast or espresso. If you prefer tea, black tea blends like Earl Grey or English Breakfast offer a lovely contrast, while herbal options like chamomile or mint make for a more delicate pairing.

For a family-friendly option, cold milk is a classic companion. Whether it’s dairy or a creamy plant-based alternative like oat or almond milk, the coolness and creaminess play perfectly with the rich frosting and tender banana crumb.

If you’re serving this dessert after a meal, consider offering it with a light fruit salad on the side. Think strawberries, kiwi, and orange slices. The acidity of the fruit helps cut through the richness and makes the whole experience feel lighter and more refreshing.

For a more indulgent dessert course, you could pair the brownies with a scoop of ice cream. Vanilla, salted caramel, or cinnamon ice cream are particularly good matches for the banana and brown butter combo. You could even try frozen yogurt or gelato for a slightly tangy twist.

If you enjoy mocktails or non-alcoholic drink pairings, a sparkling apple cider or ginger beer adds some fizz and spice that complements the sweet, nutty flavors of the brownies. A banana smoothie or milkshake can double down on the banana theme if you’re feeling playful.

And when you’re in a full-on dessert mode, try building a banana brownie sundae. Layer brownie chunks with whipped cream, sliced bananas, and chocolate sauce in a tall glass or bowl. It’s indulgent, it’s fun, and it’s absolutely delicious.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Once you’ve baked up a fresh batch of banana brownies, the next question is: how do you store them to keep that soft, moist texture and rich frosting at its best? Luckily, these brownies are easy to store, freeze, and reheat—making them perfect for meal prep or make-ahead baking.

Storing at Room Temperature:
If you plan to eat the brownies within 2 days, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature. Make sure they’re completely cooled and the frosting has set before storing. Place a layer of parchment or wax paper between the brownies if you’re stacking them to prevent sticking.

Refrigerating for Longer Freshness:
To keep them fresh beyond a couple of days, refrigerate the brownies in a sealed container. They’ll stay moist and delicious for up to 5 days. Just be aware that refrigeration can firm up the frosting a bit, so let them sit at room temperature for about 10–15 minutes before serving for the best texture.

Freezing Banana Brownies:
These brownies freeze beautifully, both with or without the frosting. If you’re freezing an entire batch, place the whole slab in the freezer (unglazed or already frosted) until firm. Then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by a layer of foil. If you’re freezing individual pieces, wrap each one separately for easy portion control.

Label your container with the date and try to use them within 2 to 3 months for best quality. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the brownies overnight in the fridge or for a few hours at room temperature.

Reheating Instructions:
To warm them up, pop a brownie in the microwave for about 10 seconds if it’s at room temperature or 20–25 seconds if it’s chilled. This softens the crumb and gently melts the frosting for a gooey, bakery-fresh texture. If you’re reheating a large portion from frozen, use a low oven (about 300°F or 150°C) and warm them for 10–15 minutes until heated through.

Whether you’re baking ahead for a party or saving leftovers for a rainy day, knowing how to properly store and reheat these brownies ensures that every bite stays as soft, sweet, and satisfying as the first.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the simplest recipes have a few potential pitfalls. To help you get perfect results every time, here are some of the most common mistakes to avoid when making banana brownies—and how to fix or prevent them.

1. Using underripe bananas:
This one’s key. The riper the banana, the sweeter and more flavorful your brownies will be. Underripe bananas are too starchy and don’t bring the same moist texture or depth of flavor. Aim for bananas that are deeply spotted or even nearly black on the outside—they’re perfect for baking.

2. Overmixing the batter:
Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, stir gently and just until no flour streaks remain. Overmixing can lead to dense, tough brownies instead of the soft, tender crumb we’re going for.

3. Skipping the parchment paper:
Lining your pan with parchment paper not only makes cleanup easier, but it also ensures you can lift the brownies out in one neat piece. This is especially helpful if you’re serving them at a party and want clean cuts.

4. Not allowing brownies to cool before frosting:
This one’s tempting, especially when your kitchen smells like warm bananas and butter. But resist the urge to frost too soon. If the brownies are still warm, the frosting will melt and slide around instead of setting into a smooth, glossy layer.

5. Not browning the butter properly:
For the frosting, you want the butter to reach a golden brown color with a nutty aroma. Watch it closely as it cooks—it can go from golden to burned in seconds. Stir constantly and remove it from the heat as soon as those little brown bits start to form at the bottom of the pan.

6. Overbaking:
These brownies bake quickly. Check them at the 20-minute mark and every few minutes after that. A toothpick should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter. Overbaking will dry them out and take away that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

By keeping an eye on these common issues, you’ll set yourself up for success and bake banana brownies that are moist, flavorful, and absolutely irresistible every single time.

 

Pro Tips

Now that you know how to avoid the most common pitfalls, let’s take it a step further with a few pro tips that can make a big difference in the final outcome. These simple tricks can help you bake with more confidence, get better texture and flavor, and even save time along the way.

1. Mash bananas thoroughly for a smoother texture
While a few banana chunks are fine, the more evenly mashed your bananas are, the smoother your brownie batter will be. Use a fork or, for extra ease, a potato masher. If you’re really going for a velvety texture, you can even blend the bananas before mixing them into the batter.

2. Use room temperature ingredients
Room temperature eggs, butter, and sour cream mix more easily and evenly into the batter. If you forget to leave your eggs out ahead of time, you can quickly bring them to room temperature by placing them in a bowl of warm water for 5–10 minutes.

3. Toast the pecans for extra flavor
If you’re including the chopped pecans, give them a quick toast in a dry skillet or in the oven at 350°F for about 5–7 minutes. Toasting deepens their flavor and adds a little extra crunch, which contrasts beautifully with the soft brownie base.

4. Let the browned butter cool slightly before adding sugar
When making the frosting, once the butter is browned, let it cool for a few minutes before whisking in the powdered sugar. This keeps the frosting from becoming too runny and helps it whip into a smooth, spreadable consistency.

5. Chill before cutting for clean edges
If you want super clean, bakery-style brownie squares, pop the frosted brownies into the fridge for 20–30 minutes before slicing. This firms up the frosting and makes it easier to get neat, even cuts.

6. Sift your powdered sugar
For a lump-free frosting, sift your powdered sugar before adding it to the browned butter. This only takes a minute and makes a noticeable difference in texture.

7. Experiment with mix-ins
Feel free to play around with mix-ins like mini chocolate chips, dried banana slices, or even a swirl of peanut butter. Just be sure not to overload the batter—stick to about 1 to 1½ cups of extras.

8. Make it a layered dessert
These banana brownies make an excellent base for a trifle or layered dessert. Cut them into cubes and layer them with whipped cream and banana slices in a glass dish for a fun twist on banana pudding.

9. Use a serrated knife for cutting
A serrated knife or bread knife works really well for cutting through the frosting and soft brownie base without making a mess. Wipe the blade clean between each slice for best results.

10. Store with parchment between layers
If you’re stacking brownies in a container for storage or transport, place a piece of parchment or wax paper between each layer to prevent sticking and smudging.

These tips can help turn a great recipe into an unforgettable one. Even small adjustments in how you handle the ingredients or finish the brownies can elevate your dessert game in big ways.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, you absolutely can. Greek yogurt works as a fantastic substitute for sour cream and still provides that creamy texture and subtle tang. Use a full-fat or 2% Greek yogurt for the best results, and substitute it in equal amounts.

Can I make this recipe without nuts?
Definitely. The chopped pecans are totally optional and can be left out without affecting the structure or taste of the brownies. You can also swap them with other mix-ins like chocolate chips or leave the batter plain for a smooth, nut-free version.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes. To make gluten-free banana brownies, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Make sure it contains xanthan gum or a similar binder for best texture. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I double the recipe?
You can double the recipe, but you’ll need to use two pans or a larger sheet pan to accommodate the extra batter. Keep in mind that baking time may need to be adjusted slightly, so check for doneness with a toothpick inserted into the center.

What can I use instead of brown butter frosting?
While the brown butter frosting is absolutely delicious, you can substitute it with other toppings like a classic cream cheese frosting, chocolate ganache, or even a simple dusting of powdered sugar if you’re short on time.

Can I make the brownies ahead of time?
Yes, this is a great make-ahead dessert. You can bake the brownies and add the frosting a day in advance. Just store them in the fridge, and let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

How do I know when the brownies are done?
The edges should be set and lightly golden, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out with just a few moist crumbs attached. Be careful not to overbake—banana brownies continue to cook slightly as they cool in the pan.

Can I freeze the frosted brownies?
Yes, both frosted and unfrosted brownies can be frozen. For frosted brownies, flash-freeze them for 1 hour on a tray first, then wrap them individually in plastic and foil. Store in a freezer-safe container and thaw before serving.

Why did my frosting turn out too thin?
If your frosting is too thin, it could be that the browned butter was too hot or you added too much milk. Add more powdered sugar a little at a time and whisk until you reach the right consistency. You can also let it cool slightly and thicken naturally before spreading.

How long will the brownies stay fresh?
At room temperature, they’ll stay fresh for up to 2 days. In the fridge, they’ll last for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months.

Conclusion & Call to Action

If you’ve made it this far, you’re probably already dreaming about that first bite of soft, banana-rich brownie topped with creamy, nutty brown butter frosting. And honestly, I don’t blame you. These banana brownies are one of those desserts that surprises you—not just because they’re easy to make or because they use up those bananas you thought were past their prime—but because they’re genuinely crave-worthy.

They’re comforting, classic, and just different enough to feel special. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just getting started, this recipe is designed to be approachable and forgiving. Even if you’ve never made brown butter before, I promise you’ll feel like a pro by the time you’re done.

And remember, baking isn’t just about the end result—it’s about the experience, the creativity, and the joy of sharing something delicious with people you care about. So don’t stress the small stuff. Enjoy the process. Taste as you go. Make it your own.

I’d absolutely love to hear how your banana brownies turn out. Did you add any fun mix-ins? Serve them warm with ice cream? Or maybe you made them for a special occasion? Either way, let me know! Leave a comment below or tag me with a photo on social media. Your creations make this baking community so special, and I can’t wait to see what you whip up.

Now go grab those bananas, preheat that oven, and get baking. These brownies are waiting—and trust me, they’re worth every bite.

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