Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing

Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. These moist and flavorful bars are not only easy to make but also bring a unique twist to your typical banana desserts. The brown butter icing adds a rich, nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of ripe bananas, making these bars an irresistible choice for parties, potlucks, or simply enjoying at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal effort and uses simple ingredients you likely already have.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of ripe bananas and brown butter icing creates a unique taste that is both sweet and satisfying.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as a dessert or snack, these bars can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
• Great for Overripe Bananas: Transform those overly ripe bananas into something delicious instead of letting them go to waste.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 16 servings, these bars are ideal for gatherings, ensuring there’s enough to go around.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will make the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• 8×8 baking dish: The perfect size for baking these banana bars evenly.
• Parchment paper: Helps in easy removal of the bars from the pan without sticking.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly to achieve the right texture.
• Whisk: Ideal for mixing the brown butter icing until smooth.

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

• 1/4 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. Line an 8×8 baking dish with parchment paper, allowing it to hang over the edges for easy removal later.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

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

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Add in:
1. Flour, baking soda, and salt.
2. Stir together gently until just combined; avoid over-mixing.

Step 4: Bake the Bars

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

Step 5: Prepare Brown Butter Icing

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

Step 6: Add Sugar and Vanilla

To your browned butter:
1. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
2. Mix until you achieve a smooth consistency.

Step 7: Ice the Bars

Once the banana bars have cooled for about 10-15 minutes:
1. Spread the icing evenly on top while they are still warm for a soft, melty effect.

Now you’re ready to 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 is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with a few creative ideas. Whether it’s a casual snack or a dessert for a gathering, these bars can be enjoyed in various ways.

Pair with Fresh Fruit

• Add slices of fresh banana or berries on the side for an extra fruity touch that complements the flavors.

Scoop of Ice Cream

• Serve warm banana bars with a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream to create a delicious contrast between warm and cold.

Drizzle of Caramel Sauce

• A light drizzle of caramel sauce on top can elevate the sweetness and add a rich texture to each bite.

Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy your banana bars with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or herbal tea for a perfect afternoon treat.

Whipped Cream Topping

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for an indulgent finish that enhances the moistness of the bar.

How to Perfect Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing

To ensure your banana bars turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use very ripe bananas – The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bars will be.
• Don’t overmix – Mix until just combined to keep the bars tender and avoid toughening the texture.
• Check for doneness – Use a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs.
• Cool before icing – Let the bars cool slightly before adding icing for better spreadability and texture.
• Store properly – Keep leftover bars in an airtight container to maintain their moisture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing

Pairing side dishes with banana bars can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Greek Yogurt Parfait – A mix of Greek yogurt, honey, and granola adds protein and crunch alongside the sweetness.
2. Fruit Salad – A refreshing fruit salad brings bright flavors that balance the richness of the banana bars.
3. Mixed Nuts – A handful of mixed nuts offers a crunchy contrast and healthy fats that complement dessert well.
4. Chocolate Chip Cookies – Serve classic chocolate chip cookies as an additional sweet treat for cookie lovers.
5. Cheese Plate – Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a savory counterpoint to sweet desserts.
6. Dark Chocolate Squares – Rich dark chocolate squares make for an elegant pairing that satisfies chocolate cravings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Using unripe bananas: Unripe bananas do not provide the sweetness and moisture needed for the bars. Always use very ripe bananas for the best flavor.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to dense bars. Mix until just combined to keep them light and fluffy.
• Skipping the parchment paper: Not lining your baking dish can make it difficult to remove the bars. Always line with parchment for easy lifting.
• Not cooling before icing: Applying icing on hot bars can cause it to melt away. Allow your bars to cool for at least 10-15 minutes before icing.
• Ignoring baking time: Every oven is different; check your bars a few minutes early. Bake until they are golden brown for optimal texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing

• Wrap bars tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Place bars on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes or until warm.
• Microwave: Warm individual servings on a microwave-safe plate for about 15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping halfway through, until warmed.

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 well-drained before mashing.

How do I know when my banana bars are done?

Your bars should be golden brown around the edges and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

What can I substitute for sour cream?

Plain yogurt or buttermilk can be used as an alternative without changing the flavor too much.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the batter before baking.

How thick should my icing be?

The icing should be smooth but slightly thick enough to spread easily over cooled bars without running off.

Final Thoughts

These Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them by adding nuts or chocolate chips, making them perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe today and enjoy a sweet treat that everyone will love!