Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing

The Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing are a delightful treat that combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with a rich, buttery frosting. Perfect for any occasion, these bars are moist, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a sweet snack, these banana bars will surely impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these delicious bars in no time.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of brown butter icing and ripe bananas creates a unique flavor profile that’s irresistible.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a dessert, snack, or even breakfast—these bars fit any time of day.
• Great for Ripe Bananas: This recipe is an excellent way to use up overripe bananas that might otherwise go to waste.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 16 servings, they’re ideal for gatherings or sharing with friends and family.

Tools and Preparation

To make the perfect Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8×8 baking dish
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer (or whisk)
• Medium saucepan
• Heat-proof bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• 8×8 baking dish: The perfect size for evenly baking your banana bars while ensuring they rise nicely.
• Parchment paper: Helps prevent sticking, making it easy to lift out the bars once baked.
• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when mixing ingredients to achieve a smooth batter.

Ingredients

For the Bars

• 1/2 cup/1 stick of butter
• ¾ cup sugar
• ½ cup sour cream
• ¼ cup butter, softened
• 1 egg
• 1 cup (about 2) very ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract
• 1 cup all purpose flour
• ½ tsp. baking soda
• ½ tsp. salt

For the Brown Butter Icing

• 1/2 cup/1 stick of butter
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract
• 1½ tbsp. milk

How to Make Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare an 8×8 baking dish by lining it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl:
1. Beat together the sugar, sour cream, softened butter, and egg until creamy.
2. Blend in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

Add the following dry ingredients to the wet mixture:
– All-purpose flour
– Baking soda
– Salt

Stir together until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix.

Step 4: Bake the Bars

Spread the batter evenly into your prepared pan. Bake for about 20 to 25 minutes or until golden brown. Let them cool slightly before removing from the pan using the parchment paper.

Step 5: Prepare Brown Butter Icing

In a medium saucepan:
1. Melt ½ cup butter over medium-high heat.
2. Continue cooking until brown bits form at the bottom of the pan. Swirl occasionally but let it brown.

Step 6: Whisk Together Icing Ingredients

Pour the browned butter into a heat-proof bowl:
1. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
2. Whisk until smooth.

Step 7: Ice the Bars

Once cooled for about 10-15 minutes, spread the icing on top of your banana bars while they are still slightly warm for easier application.

Now enjoy your delicious Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing!

How to Serve Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing

Serving Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some creative ways to delight your guests or enjoy them yourself.

Classic Presentation

• Serve the bars on a decorative platter for a simple yet elegant look. Cut them into squares and dust with additional powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness.

À la Mode

• Top each bar with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The warm banana bars paired with cold ice cream create a delicious contrast that is hard to resist.

With Fresh Fruit

• Add slices of fresh fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries on the side. The acidity from the fruits balances the sweetness of the bars nicely.

Drizzled Sauce

• Drizzle caramel or chocolate sauce over the bars before serving. This adds an extra layer of flavor and makes for a visually appealing dessert.

Coffee Pairing

• Serve alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea. The rich flavors in the drink will complement the sweet and buttery taste of the bars perfectly.

How to Perfect Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing

Perfecting your Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing ensures they turn out moist and flavorful every time.

• Use very ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bars will be.
• Don’t overmix: Mix the batter until just combined to keep your bars light and fluffy.
• Monitor baking time: Check for doneness at 20 minutes; they should be golden brown and a toothpick inserted should come out clean.
• Cool before icing: Allow the bars to cool slightly before adding icing, which helps it melt into a delightful glaze.
• Adjust icing thickness: If your icing is too thick, add a splash more milk for easier spreading.

Best Side Dishes for Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing

Pairing side dishes with Banana Bars can enhance your dessert spread. Here are some tasty suggestions:

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits like melons, berries, and citrus adds brightness to your meal.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a refreshing and creamy contrast.
3. Nutty Granola: Serve crunchy granola on top or as a side for added texture and flavor.
4. Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese that pair well with sweet desserts.
5. Mini Muffins: Offer banana or blueberry muffins as another sweet treat that complements the bars.
6. Chia Pudding: A light chia pudding made with coconut milk can provide a creamy balance without overpowering the banana flavor.
7. Smoothie Bowl: Blend up a smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds for a nutritious side option.
8. Ice Cream Float: Create an ice cream float using soda or sparkling water for a fun, fizzy drink that pairs well with dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your experience while making Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing.

• Using Unripe Bananas: Always use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and moisture. Look for bananas with brown spots.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mix the batter just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough bars. Aim for a gentle fold.
• Neglecting to Cool Before Icing: Let the bars cool slightly before adding icing. This prevents melting and allows for better texture.
• Skipping Parchment Paper: Line your baking dish with parchment paper. This makes removing the bars much easier after baking.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Use proper measuring tools for accuracy. Baking is a science, so precise measurements matter!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing

• Wrap bars individually in plastic wrap.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm the bars for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one bar at a time for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place a bar in a skillet over low heat, covering it to trap warmth, and heat for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing?

Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing are soft, sweet dessert bars made with ripe bananas and topped with a rich, nutty brown butter frosting.

Can I customize the flavors?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or spices like cinnamon to enhance the flavor of your Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing.

How do I know when my banana bars are done baking?

Check if they are golden brown on top and a toothpick comes out clean when inserted into the center.

Can I use other types of flour?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or gluten-free blends if needed.

How long do these banana bars last?

When stored properly, they last up to 5 days in the fridge or about 3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing are not only delicious but also versatile. They make a perfect treat for any occasion. You can easily customize them by adding your favorite mix-ins or adjusting the icing sweetness. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delightful dessert that everyone will love!

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Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 16 servings 1x

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Description

Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing are a deliciously moist treat that perfectly marries the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with a rich, nutty frosting. These bars are incredibly easy to make and are ideal for any occasion, whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them as a sweet snack. With their tender texture and decadent icing, they offer a delightful dessert experience that everyone will love. Plus, they’re an excellent way to use up overripe bananas that might otherwise go to waste.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1/2 cup butter
• ¾ cup sugar
• ½ cup sour cream
• ¼ cup butter, softened
• 1 egg
• 1 cup very ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract
• 1 cup all purpose flour
• ½ tsp. baking soda
• ½ tsp. salt
• 1/2 cup butter (for icing)
• 2 cups powdered sugar (for icing)
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract (for icing)
• 1½ tbsp. milk (for icing)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare an 8×8 baking dish lined with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together sugar, sour cream, softened butter, and egg until creamy. Stir in mashed bananas and vanilla until combined.
3. Gradually add all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix gently until just combined.
4. Spread the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
5. While cooling, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat until browned. Pour into a bowl and mix with powdered sugar and milk until smooth.
6. Spread icing over warm banana bars before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 30mg