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Start with ripe bananas and a simple pan. This recipe turns soft bananas and nutty brown butter into fudgy bars. If you enjoy brown-butter treats, try a similar twist in this brown butter cookie recipe for more ideas.

what makes this recipe special

The brown butter adds a deep, nutty flavor. The mashed bananas keep the brownies moist. Cocoa and brown sugar give a rich chocolate-banana taste. The result is fudgy, not cakey, and very easy to make.

how to make Best Brown Butter Banana Brownies

Ingredients:
1/2 cup unsalted butter, 1 cup brown sugar, 2 ripe bananas, mashed, 2 large eggs, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup cocoa powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8 inch baking pan.
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat until it turns golden brown and gives off a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
In a mixing bowl, combine the brown butter and brown sugar, mixing until well combined.
Add the mashed bananas, eggs, and vanilla extract, and stir until smooth.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
If desired, fold in chocolate chips.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Allow to cool before slicing into bars and serving.

how to serve Best Brown Butter Banana Brownies

Cut into squares and serve at room temperature. A scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs well. You can also warm a piece for a few seconds and top it with whipped cream. For a banana-forward plate idea, see this chocolate chip banana bread guide to mix and match serving styles.

how to store Best Brown Butter Banana Brownies

Store cooled bars in an airtight container. Keep them at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days. You can freeze them wrapped tightly for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

tips to make Best Brown Butter Banana Brownies

Use ripe bananas for the best sweetness and moisture.
Watch the butter while browning. Stir and remove from heat when it smells nutty.
Do not overmix after adding flour. Mix until just combined.
Check baking time a few minutes early; ovens vary. A few moist crumbs on a toothpick is ideal.
Add nuts for crunch or extra chocolate chips for richness.

variation (if any)

Walnut banana brownies: Fold in 1/2 cup chopped walnuts.
Peanut butter swirl: Drop small spoonfuls of peanut butter on top and swirl before baking.
Espresso boost: Add 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder to the dry ingredients for a deeper chocolate flavor.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen bananas?
A: Yes. Thaw and drain excess liquid, then mash before using.

Q: Can I use salted butter instead?
A: Yes. Reduce added salt slightly or skip extra salt in the recipe.

Q: How do I know when they are done?
A: Insert a toothpick in the center. A few moist crumbs mean they are done. Avoid a completely clean toothpick to keep them fudgy.

Q: Can I make this in a larger pan?
A: Yes. If you use a 9×13 pan, bake a bit less time per depth changes; check after 18–20 minutes for doneness.

Conclusion

Try a similar take on banana bars in this brown butter banana bars recipe for more brown-butter inspiration. For a dessert that blends banana bread and brownies with brown butter frosting, see this banana bread brownies with brown butter frosting.