Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing

The Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavor of ripe bananas with a decadent brown butter icing. Perfect for gatherings, afternoon snacks, or just because, these bars are moist, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. The unique brown butter adds a nutty depth that elevates these banana bars to a new level of deliciousness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have these delicious bars ready in no time.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party, potluck, or casual family gathering, these bars are sure to please everyone.
• Moist and Flavorful: The combination of ripe bananas and brown butter results in irresistibly moist bars that burst with flavor.
• Versatile Dessert Option: Serve them as is or dress them up with nuts or chocolate chips for added texture and taste.
• Great Use for Overripe Bananas: This recipe is an excellent way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your counter.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Baking dish (8×8)
• Parchment paper
• Medium saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl helps combine ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
• Whisk: This tool ensures your batter is smooth and free of lumps, crucial for achieving the perfect texture.
• Baking dish (8×8): The right size ensures even baking for your banana bars.
• Parchment paper: Line your dish with parchment for easy removal of the bars once baked.

Ingredients

For the Banana Bars

• 1/2 cup/1 stick of butter
• ¾ cup sugar
• ½ cup sour cream
• 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

• ¼ cup butter, softened
• 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

Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare an 8×8 baking dish by lining it with parchment paper. Make sure to overlap two pieces so they hang over the sides; this will help you lift out the bars easily later.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

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

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

To your wet mixture:
1. Add the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
2. Stir gently until just combined; do not overmix.
3. Spread the batter evenly into your prepared baking dish.

Step 4: Bake

Place in the oven and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes or until golden brown. Once done, let cool slightly before removing from the pan using the parchment paper.

Step 5: Make the Brown Butter Icing

In a medium saucepan:
1. Melt the remaining butter over medium-high heat.
2. Continue to cook until you see brown bits forming at the bottom; swirl occasionally but allow it to get toasty brown without burning.
3. Pour this warm butter into a heat-proof bowl.

Step 6: Finish the Icing

To your browned butter:
1. Whisk in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and enough milk to achieve a smooth consistency.
2. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.

Step 7: Ice the Bars

Once your banana bars have cooled for about 10-15 minutes, spread the brown butter icing on top while they are still slightly warm. This will create an amazing soft texture that is slightly melty—perfect for indulging!

Enjoy your delicious Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing!

How to Serve Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing

Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them at home, these bars offer versatility for any occasion.

With Fresh Fruit

• Sliced Bananas: Top the bars with fresh banana slices for added flavor and a beautiful presentation.
• Berries: Serve alongside strawberries or blueberries to add a burst of color and tanginess.

With a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that complements the sweetness of the banana bars perfectly.
• Coconut Ice Cream: For a tropical twist, coconut ice cream adds rich creaminess to each bite.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Mini Desserts: Cut banana bars into smaller pieces and serve on a platter with an assortment of mini desserts.
• Cheesecake Bites: Combine with cheesecake bites for varied textures and flavors in one serving.

How to Perfect Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing

To make your Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing even better, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance the texture and taste of your delicious dessert.

• Bold Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bars will be.
• Bold Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the bars moist and fluffy.
• Bold Monitor Baking Time: Every oven is different; check for doneness around 20 minutes to avoid overbaking.
• Bold Allow Cooling Time: Let the bars cool slightly before icing. This helps the frosting adhere better and prevents it from melting away.

Best Side Dishes for Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing

Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing pair well with several side dishes that enhance their flavor profile. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the sweetness of the bars.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a creamy contrast to the dense banana bars.
3. Nutty Granola: Sprinkle on top or serve alongside for crunch and additional flavor.
4. Chia Seed Pudding: This creamy side dish complements the texture while adding nutritional benefits.
5. Whipped Cream: A dollop on top creates an indulgent experience without overwhelming the flavors.
6. Chocolate Drizzle: A simple drizzle can elevate your dessert’s visual appeal and taste, adding richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing turn out perfectly, keep an eye out for these common pitfalls.

• Bold ingredients choice: Make sure to use very ripe bananas for the best flavor. Unripe bananas may result in less sweetness and a denser texture.
• Bold accurate measurements: Use precise measurements for ingredients like flour and sugar. Too much or too little can drastically change the texture of your bars.
• Bold overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined to keep the bars light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture.
• Bold neglecting cooling time: Allow the bars to cool before icing. This helps the frosting adhere better and enhances the overall texture.
• Bold ignoring oven settings: Ensure your oven is preheated correctly. Baking at incorrect temperatures can lead to unevenly cooked bars.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat one bar at a time for about 15-20 seconds for a quick warm-up.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently until desired temperature is reached.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing.

Can I use other types of flour?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat or gluten-free flour blends, but it may alter the texture slightly.

What can I use instead of sour cream?

Greek yogurt or buttermilk can be used as alternatives to sour cream while maintaining moisture in the bars.

How do I know when my bars are done baking?

The bars should be golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.

Can I customize my Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit to enhance flavor and texture according to your preferences.

Final Thoughts

These Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing are deliciously moist and perfect for any occasion. They offer versatility through various mix-ins and toppings, allowing you to personalize them easily. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different flavors!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing

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

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Description

Indulge in the delightful experience of Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing, a perfect blend of moist, flavorful banana goodness topped with a rich, nutty icing. These bars are not only incredibly easy to make but also an excellent way to utilize overripe bananas. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or treating yourself to a sweet snack, these banana bars will surely impress.

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Ingredients

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• 1/2 cup butter
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 egg
• 1 cup very ripe bananas, mashed (about 2 bananas)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 tbsp milk

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line an 8×8 baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat together sugar, sour cream, butter, and egg until creamy. Mix in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Add flour, baking soda, and salt to the wet mixture; stir gently until just combined. Pour batter into the prepared dish.
4. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool slightly before lifting out using parchment paper.
5. For the icing, melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat until browned; pour into a bowl and whisk in powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and enough milk for desired consistency.
6. Spread icing on warm banana bars.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 square (50g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 14g
• Sodium: 90mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 33g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 20mg