Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing

The Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavor of bananas with the nutty taste of brown butter. These bars are perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to casual get-togethers. With their moist texture and sweet, creamy icing, they stand out as a comforting dessert that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of ripe bananas and brown butter creates a unique taste that is both sweet and slightly nutty.
• Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Versatile Dessert: Serve these bars at parties, potlucks, or as an afternoon snack; they are sure to please any crowd.
• Moist Texture: The addition of sour cream ensures that the bars stay tender and moist, even after baking.
• Quick Baking Time: In just 20 to 25 minutes, you can have freshly baked banana bars ready to enjoy.

Tools and Preparation

To make these delicious Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment helps ensure success in your baking endeavors.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Whisk
• 8×8 baking dish
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl is necessary for combining ingredients smoothly without spills.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the right texture and flavor in your banana bars.
• Whisk: This is important for blending ingredients evenly, especially when incorporating the brown butter into the icing.

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

• 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

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line an 8×8 baking dish with parchment paper, allowing the edges to hang over the sides for easy removal later.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Beat together ¾ cup sugar, ½ cup sour cream, ¼ cup softened butter, and 1 egg until creamy.
2. Blend in the mashed bananas and 1 tsp. vanilla extract.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Add in:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– ½ tsp. baking soda
– ½ tsp. salt

Stir together until just combined.

Step 4: Bake

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

Step 5: Prepare Brown Butter

In a medium saucepan:
1. Melt the remaining butter over medium-high heat.
2. Continue cooking until brown bits form at the bottom of the pan; swirl occasionally but do not let it burn.

Step 6: Make Icing

Pour the browned butter into a heat-proof bowl:
1. Whisk in 2 cups powdered sugar, 1 tsp. vanilla extract, and 1½ tbsp. milk. Mix until smooth.

Step 7: Ice the Bars

Let your banana bars cool for about 10-15 minutes before spreading on the icing while they are still warm for a nice melting effect.

Enjoy your homemade 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 are sure to please everyone.

With Fresh Fruit

• Sliced Bananas: Top your banana bars with fresh banana slices for an extra burst of flavor.
• Berries: Serve alongside fresh strawberries or blueberries for a colorful contrast and added sweetness.

As a Dessert Platter

• Dessert Board: Include the banana bars on a dessert platter with other sweets like cookies and brownies for a delightful variety.
• Cheese Pairing: Add some cheese, like cream cheese or ricotta, to balance the sweetness of the bars.

With Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream complements the banana bars perfectly.
• Caramel Sauce: Drizzle caramel sauce over both the bar and ice cream for a decadent treat.

How to Perfect Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing

Perfecting your Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing can elevate this delicious dessert even further. Here are some essential tips to ensure success.

• Boldly choose ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bars will be.
• Boldly monitor baking time: Keep an eye on the bars as they bake; you want them golden brown but not overcooked.
• Boldly use room temperature ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Boldly let them cool before icing: Allowing the bars to cool slightly helps the icing adhere without melting away too quickly.

Best Side Dishes for Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing

Pairing side dishes with your Banana Bars can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some excellent 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 fresh fruit for a creamy, crunchy contrast.
3. Nut Mix: A handful of roasted nuts brings crunchiness and complements the soft texture of banana bars.
4. Coffee or Tea: Offering a warm beverage pairs nicely with sweet treats like these banana bars.
5. Chocolate Chips: Serve chocolate chips on the side for those who want an extra touch of sweetness.
6. Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream makes a lovely accompaniment that adds lightness to each bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking banana bars can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Bold Timing: Overbaking the bars can lead to dryness. Keep an eye on them and test with a toothpick a few minutes before the timer goes off.
• Bold Banana Selection: Using unripe bananas will yield less flavor. Ensure your bananas are very ripe for the best taste and sweetness.
• Bold Mixing Technique: Overmixing the batter can make the bars tough. Mix until just combined for that perfect soft texture.
• Bold Icing Temperature: Applying icing while the bars are too hot can cause it to melt away. Let the bars cool slightly before frosting for better results.
• Bold Measuring Ingredients: Not measuring ingredients accurately can throw off the recipe. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• They will keep well for up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing

• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing

• Bold Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 10 minutes for a fresh taste.
• Bold Microwave: Heat one bar at a time for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Bold Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering it to create steam, warming for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use frozen bananas for Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing?

Yes, thaw frozen bananas completely and drain excess liquid before using them in the recipe.

What type of butter is best for brown butter icing?

Unsalted butter is recommended as it allows you to control the saltiness of your icing more effectively.

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

The edges should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add nuts like walnuts or chocolate chips for added flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing are not only delicious but also versatile. You can enjoy them as a dessert or snack at any time of day. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips. Try this recipe today!

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: Jennifer
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful and moist Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing, a simple yet satisfying dessert perfect for any occasion. These bars capture the rich flavor of ripe bananas paired with a creamy, nutty brown butter icing, offering a delectable treat that everyone will adore. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet afternoon snack, these bars are quick to prepare and sure to impress. With their tender texture and sweet topping, they make for an irresistible dessert that is as enjoyable to eat as it is to share.

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Ingredients

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• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup softened butter
• 1 egg
• 2 very ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 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). Line an 8×8 baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat together sugar, sour cream, softened butter, and egg until creamy. Blend in mashed bananas and vanilla extract.
3. Add flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir until just combined.
4. Spread the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown. Allow cooling slightly before lifting from the pan using parchment paper.
5. For the icing, melt remaining butter in a saucepan over medium heat until browned bits form; whisk into powdered sugar along with vanilla extract and milk until smooth.
6. Ice the cooled banana bars and enjoy!

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 201
• Sugar: 17g
• Sodium: 107mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 23mg