Heat oven to 350 degrees F Grease or line a 9-inch square baking pan with parchment.

Blondie

1. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract and mashed bananas until smooth.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder and salt.
3. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips or nuts if using.
4. Pour batter into prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
5. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a wooden pick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Cool before slicing and serving.
7. Allow brownies to cool slightly until warm (but not hot) before frosting.

Frosting (optional)

1. In a large saucepan, heat butter over medium heat until it turns a medium brown color. Watch carefully.
2. Remove from heat, whisk in confectioners’ sugar, adding milk gradually to achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency.
3. Stir in vanilla extract.
4. Pour frosting over warm banana bread brownies and smooth with a spatula.
5. Allow to cool completely before cutting into squares.