Description
Imagine the rich nuttiness of brown butter, the chewy nostalgia of a sugar cookie, and the moist sweetness of banana bread—all wrapped into one irresistible loaf. This Brown Butter Sugar Cookie Banana Bread is a cozy, comforting twist on classic banana bread with a hint of caramelized flavor, crisp edges, and a soft, cake-like crumb. It’s the perfect treat for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon pick-me-up.
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Ingredients
For the Banana Bread:
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½ cup unsalted butter (for browning)
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¾ cup granulated sugar
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¼ cup light brown sugar
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2 large eggs
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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3 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 ¼ cups)
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¼ cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
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1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
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1 tsp baking soda
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½ tsp salt
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½ tsp ground cinnamon (optional, for warmth)
Optional Sugar Cookie Topping:
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1 tbsp granulated sugar
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½ tsp cinnamon (for a cinnamon-sugar top crust)
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Butter
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Stir continuously as it foams, then turns golden brown and smells nutty—about 4–6 minutes.
Remove from heat and let it cool for 5–10 minutes.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the brown butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until combined.
Add eggs and vanilla extract, then whisk until smooth.
Mix in the mashed bananas and Greek yogurt until well incorporated.
Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula—do not overmix.
Step 4: Prepare to Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
Pour the batter into the pan and smooth the top.
Step 5: Add the Sugar Cookie Topping (Optional)
Mix 1 tbsp granulated sugar with ½ tsp cinnamon.
Sprinkle evenly over the batter for a crisp, sweet top crust.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
If the top is browning too quickly, tent loosely with foil during the last 10–15 minutes.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes.
Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing for the cleanest cuts.
Notes
Use Overripe Bananas – The darker and spottier, the better for flavor and moisture.
Don’t Skip the Brown Butter – It adds an incredible depth of flavor.
Avoid Overmixing – Keeps the bread tender and prevents it from becoming dense.
Customize It – Add chocolate chips, walnuts, or swirl in a bit of nut butter.
Make It Mini – Use mini loaf pans and adjust baking time for personal portions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Cuisine: American