Ingredients:

  • 3 large overripe bananas
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
  • 1 cup granulated white sugar
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter (for frosting)
  • 1.5 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 2 tablespoons whole milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla bean paste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven and prepare a 9x9 inch square baking pan with parchment paper, creating a sling for easy removal.
  2. If bananas are not overripe, roast unpeeled bananas at 300°F (150°C) for 15 minutes until skins are dark; otherwise, skip to mashing.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas until they reach a smooth liquid consistency with minimal lumps.
  4. Whisk in the 1/2 cup melted butter, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract vigorously for 60 seconds until the mixture lightens slightly.
  5. Using a spatula, gently fold in the all-purpose flour and fine sea salt until just combined; do not overmix.
  6. Transfer the batter to the prepared pan and bake for 35 minutes or until the edges are set and a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
  7. While brownies bake, brown 1/4 cup butter in a small saucepan over medium heat until nutty and bronzed. Remove from heat and whisk in powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla bean paste to create the frosting.
  8. Spread the brown butter frosting over the brownies while they are slightly warm. Allow to cool completely before slicing.