Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing

The Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing are a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Their moist texture and rich flavor make them an instant favorite among family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a birthday, or simply indulging in a sweet snack, these bars will surely impress. The unique brown butter icing adds an exquisite touch that elevates these banana bars to the next level.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers.
• Delicious Flavor – The combination of ripe bananas and brown butter creates a moist, flavorful treat that everyone will love.
• Versatile Treat – Enjoy them as a dessert, snack, or even breakfast on the go; they’re delicious at any time of day.
• Perfect for Overripe Bananas – Transform those overripe bananas sitting on your counter into something wonderful instead of tossing them out.
• Feed a Crowd – This recipe yields 16 servings, making it ideal for gatherings, picnics, or family get-togethers.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing your kitchen for these delicious banana bars is essential. Having the right tools ensures that everything goes smoothly from start to finish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8×8 baking dish
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• 8×8 baking dish – The perfect size for achieving the ideal thickness in your banana bars.
• Parchment paper – Helps with easy removal of the bars from the pan, preventing sticking.
• Electric mixer – Ensures that all ingredients are well combined and creamy without much effort.
• Medium saucepan – Essential for browning the butter, allowing you to achieve that nutty flavor.

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

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line an 8×8 baking dish with parchment paper so that it hangs over the sides for easy removal later.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

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

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. Add in 1 cup all-purpose flour, ½ tsp. baking soda, and ½ tsp. salt.
2. Stir together until just combined.
3. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.

Step 4: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool slightly before removing from the pan using the parchment overhang.

Step 5: Make Brown Butter Icing

In a medium saucepan:
1. Melt ¼ cup butter over medium-high heat.
2. Continue cooking until brown bits form at the bottom; swirl occasionally.
3. Pour into a heat-proof bowl and whisk until smooth.

Step 6: Add Sugar and Vanilla

Add in 2 cups powdered sugar, remaining 1 tsp. vanilla extract, and 1½ tbsp milk. Mix until smooth.

Step 7: Frosting Application

Spread icing on the warm bars after they have cooled for about 10-15 minutes for easier application and an amazing soft texture.

Enjoy your deliciously moist banana bars topped with irresistible brown butter icing!

How to Serve Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing

Serving Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing can elevate any gathering or simply satisfy your sweet tooth. These delightful treats pair wonderfully with various accompaniments, enhancing their rich flavor and texture.

With a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Vanilla ice cream complements the warm bars perfectly, adding a creamy contrast to the sweetness.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• A light drizzle of caramel sauce on top can add an extra layer of indulgence and enhance the bar’s flavor.

On a Bed of Fresh Fruit

• Serve your banana bars alongside fresh fruit like berries or sliced apples for a refreshing touch that balances the sweetness.

With a Cup of Coffee

• Pairing these bars with coffee can enhance the taste experience, making it perfect for brunch or afternoon tea.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream adds a light and airy texture that contrasts nicely with the dense banana bars.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Include these bars on a dessert platter with other treats for an impressive spread at parties or gatherings.

How to Perfect Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing

Perfecting your Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they come out delicious every time.

• Use very ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bars will be.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing too much can lead to dense bars. Stir until just combined.
• Check for doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean when done.
• Cool before icing: Allow the bars to cool slightly before adding icing for better consistency and easier spreading.
• Experiment with spices: Add cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra flavor boost in your batter.
• Store properly: Keep your banana bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing

Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing can be paired beautifully with various side dishes that complement their sweetness. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the richness of the bars.

2. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt, granola, and fruits for a nutritious side that pairs well without overpowering.

3. Cheese Platter
   Include soft cheeses like brie or mascarpone which offer a creamy texture against the sweet bars.

4. Chia Seed Pudding
   This healthy option provides a creamy contrast and is packed with nutrients, making it a lovely side dish.

5. Granola Bars
   Homemade granola bars add crunch and are great for those who enjoy more texture alongside their sweets.

6. Nut Mix
   A simple mix of nuts provides protein and crunch, balancing out the sweetness of the banana bars effectively.

7. Coconut Macaroons
   These chewy treats bring an additional layer of flavor that pairs well without overshadowing your banana bars.

8. Dark Chocolate Dipped Strawberries
   The bitterness of dark chocolate complements the sweetness of banana bars beautifully while adding elegance to your serving plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Boldly forget about ripeness: Using unripe bananas will not give you that sweet, natural flavor. Always select very ripe bananas for the best results.
• Mix too much: Overmixing the batter can lead to dense bars. Mix just until combined to keep them light and fluffy.
• Skip cooling: Frosting warm bars can make a mess of your icing. Allow the bars to cool slightly before adding the icing for a smoother finish.
• Neglect baking time: Every oven is different. Check your bars at the 20-minute mark to avoid overbaking and ensure they stay moist.
• Use wrong pan size: Using a pan that’s too small can cause overflow, while a larger one may result in thin bars. Stick to an 8×8 inch dish for ideal thickness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• Banana bars will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing

• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer bag for easy access.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes for fresh taste.
• Microwave: Heat a single bar on high for about 15-20 seconds for a quick snack.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently 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?

Yes, thawed frozen bananas work well! Ensure they are fully mashed before adding to the batter.

How do I know when the banana bars are done?

Check for a golden brown top and insert a toothpick; it should come out clean when they’re fully baked.

What can I use instead of sour cream?

Plain yogurt or buttermilk are great substitutes that will still yield moist banana bars.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips into the batter for added flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

These Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding nuts or swapping ingredients based on your preferences. Try making them today and enjoy this delightful treat!