Banana Bread Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These Banana Bread Brownies are a delicious twist on classic banana bread! Soft, moist, and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, they’re a perfect dessert or snack for banana lovers. The brownie base has the flavor and texture of banana bread but with the decadent appeal of a brownie, making this treat a standout for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Banana Bread Meets Brownies: Get the best of both worlds with a moist, banana-infused brownie texture.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and quick steps make this a go-to dessert.
• Cream Cheese Frosting: The creamy, tangy frosting balances the sweetness of the brownies perfectly.
• Customizable: Add chopped walnuts for a crunchy texture, or leave them out for a smooth bite.

Ingredients

Brownie Base:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 4 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tsp vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray, or line it with parchment paper.
2. Make the Brownie Batter:
   • In a large mixing bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, sour cream, softened butter, and eggs until smooth and creamy.
   • Add the mashed bananas and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
   • Fold in the chopped walnuts if desired.
3. Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the brownies to cool slightly before frosting.
4. Prepare the Frosting:
   • In a medium bowl, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
   • Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until the frosting is light, fluffy, and smooth.
5. Frost and Serve: Once the brownies have cooled slightly, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Cut into squares and enjoy!

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or hand whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Spatula for frosting

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving: Serve these brownies as a dessert or a sweet snack with a hot cup of coffee or tea. Garnish with extra walnuts on top if desired.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring them to room temperature before serving.
• Freezing: These brownies freeze well. Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Recipe Variations

• Add Chocolate Chips: Mix in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips for a banana-chocolate twist.
• Add Cinnamon: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon to the brownie batter for a hint of spice.
• Top with Nuts: Sprinkle extra chopped walnuts on top of the frosting for added texture and a beautiful presentation.

Helpful Notes

• Choosing Ripe Bananas: Overripe bananas (the ones with brown spots) are best for this recipe as they add extra sweetness and moisture.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that the butter and cream cheese are softened to room temperature for a smooth batter and frosting.
• Don’t Overmix: Stir the batter just until the dry ingredients are incorporated to avoid a dense texture.

Tips from Bakers

• Chef Christina Tosi: “For an extra banana flavor, add a few drops of banana extract to the batter.”
• Chef Sally McKenney: “Try sifting the powdered sugar before adding it to the frosting for a perfectly smooth texture.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, plain Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream and will yield similar results.

Q2: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour for a gluten-free version.

Q3: How do I keep the brownies from getting too dense?
Make sure not to overmix the batter, as this can lead to a denser texture. Mix just until combined.

Q4: Can I skip the cream cheese frosting?
Yes, the brownies are delicious on their own, but the frosting adds a layer of flavor and richness that’s worth it!

Q5: How can I make this dairy-free?
Substitute the sour cream, butter, and cream cheese with dairy-free alternatives. Coconut cream can work well in place of sour cream for moisture.

Enjoy These Moist, Frosted Banana Bread Brownies!

These Banana Bread Brownies are a delightful treat, combining the moist texture of banana bread with the decadence of brownies. Topped with a tangy cream cheese frosting, they’re a perfect way to enjoy ripe bananas. Make a batch for family gatherings, bake sales, or just as a sweet treat to brighten your day!

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