Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing

Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing are a delightful treat that brings together the rich flavors of ripe bananas and the nutty essence of brown butter. These bars are perfect for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to festive celebrations. With their moist texture and luscious icing, they are sure to impress friends and family alike. Whether you’re using overripe bananas or looking for a new dessert recipe, these bars will satisfy your sweet cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of ripe bananas and brown butter creates a unique taste that is hard to resist.
• Versatile Dessert: Enjoy them as a snack, dessert, or even breakfast treat!
• Perfect for Leftovers: Use those overripe bananas in an exciting way instead of tossing them out.
• Great for Sharing: Makes 16 servings, ideal for parties or potlucks.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Baking dish (8×8)
• Parchment paper
• Saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients evenly.
• Whisk: Perfect for achieving a creamy batter without lumps.
• Baking dish: The right size ensures even cooking and perfect bar shapes.

Ingredients

For the Banana 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

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

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the following ingredients until creamy:
1. Sugar
2. Sour cream
3. Softened butter (¼ cup)
4. Egg

After achieving a smooth mixture, blend in:
– Mashed bananas
– Vanilla extract

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together:
– All-purpose flour
– Baking soda
– Salt

Gradually add this dry mixture into your wet ingredients until just combined.

Step 4: Bake the Bars

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

Step 5: Prepare Brown Butter Icing

In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, melt butter (½ cup) while stirring continuously until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma.

Step 6: Whisk Icing Ingredients

Once browned, pour the butter into a heat-proof bowl and whisk in:
– Powdered sugar
– Vanilla extract
– Milk

Mix until smooth.

Step 7: Ice the Bars

After allowing the banana bars to cool for about 10–15 minutes, spread the icing on top while they are still slightly warm for an amazing soft texture.

With these steps complete, you can 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 delightful ways to enjoy these moist and flavorful bars.

Enjoy with a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly, adding a creamy contrast to the warm bars.
• Try caramel or chocolate ice cream for extra indulgence.

Pair with Fresh Fruit

• Fresh berries such as strawberries or raspberries add a refreshing touch.
• Sliced bananas on top enhance the banana flavor while adding visual appeal.

Drizzle with Honey or Maple Syrup

• A light drizzle of honey adds natural sweetness and a beautiful glaze.
• Maple syrup gives a warm, rich flavor that complements the bars wonderfully.

Serve with Whipped Cream

• Lightly sweetened whipped cream creates a fluffy texture that balances the dense bars.
• Consider adding a hint of vanilla to the whipped cream for extra flavor.

How to Perfect Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing

Perfecting your Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing can be simple with these helpful tips:

• Use Very Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bars will be.
• Brown Your Butter Carefully: Watch the butter closely while browning; it can go from perfect to burnt quickly.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep your bars tender and soft.
• Cool Before Icing: Allow the bars to cool slightly before icing for better adhesion and texture.
• Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to get creative! Nuts, chocolate chips, or additional fruits can be added for variety.

Best Side Dishes for Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing

Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing pair well with various side dishes. Here’s a list of complementary options:

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the bars.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt, granola, and fruit offer a healthy contrast.
3. Cheese Plate: Soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese provide a savory element that enhances dessert flavors.
4. Nut Mix: A blend of spiced nuts adds crunch and complexity alongside the soft banana bars.
5. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These sweet bites heighten the dessert experience without overwhelming it.
6. Coffee or Tea: A warm beverage can complement your dessert and provide a cozy finish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can help you create the best Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can make your bars tough. Stir until just combined for a tender texture.
• Using Unripe Bananas: Under-ripe bananas don’t provide enough sweetness. Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and moisture.
• Skipping the Parchment Paper: Not lining the pan can lead to sticky bars that are hard to remove. Always use parchment paper for easy lifting.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can affect cooking time and result in uneven bars. Always preheat your oven accurately.
• Frosting Too Soon: Icing warm bars is tempting, but it can make the frosting runny. Wait about 10-15 minutes after baking for better results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing

• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and reheat bars for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat each bar for about 15-20 seconds until just warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet on low heat, covering them with a lid for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other fruits in this recipe?

You can definitely experiment with other fruits like apples or pears, but bananas really shine in this recipe.

How do I know when my banana bars are done?

The bars should be golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean when they’re finished baking.

What makes this recipe unique?

The brown butter icing adds a rich, nutty flavor that complements the sweet banana base beautifully.

Can I make these banana bars gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make delicious gluten-free Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing.

Final Thoughts

These Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing are not only delicious but also versatile! You can customize them by adding nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor. Try them today; they’re sure to become a favorite treat!