Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing

Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing are a delightful treat that combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with a rich, nutty icing. These bars are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a bake sale, or simply to enjoy with your afternoon coffee. The unique brown butter icing adds depth and flavor, making these bars irresistibly delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these banana bars come together quickly.
• Deliciously Moist: The ripe bananas ensure that each bite is soft and packed with flavor.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for dessert or as a snack, these bars appeal to both kids and adults alike.
• Rich Brown Butter Flavor: The brown butter icing sets this recipe apart, adding a unique twist that’s hard to resist.
• Great for Leftover Bananas: A wonderful way to use up overripe bananas instead of tossing them out.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your baking process and help you achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl is crucial for properly mixing your ingredients until creamy.
• Baking dish (8×8): This size ensures even baking for your banana bars, helping them cook thoroughly.
• Parchment paper: Using parchment makes it easy to lift the bars out once they’re baked without sticking.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

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). Prepare an 8×8 baking dish by lining it with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Beat together the 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 until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Gently stir together until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 4: Bake the Bars

Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan:
– Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden brown.
– Let cool slightly before lifting out of the pan using the parchment paper.

Step 5: Brown the Butter

In a medium saucepan:
1. Melt additional ¼ cup butter over medium-high heat.
2. Continue cooking until brown bits form at the bottom; swirl occasionally to prevent burning.

Step 6: Prepare the 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.
2. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 7: Ice Your Bars

Once cooled for about 10-15 minutes:
– Spread the icing generously on top of your banana bars while they are still warm for an inviting melt-in-your-mouth effect.

Enjoy your homemade Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing!

How to Serve Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing

Serving Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing can elevate any gathering or snack time. These moist bars topped with rich icing are delightful on their own but can be paired with various accompaniments for a special touch.

Pair with Fresh Fruits

• Sliced Strawberries: The sweetness of strawberries complements the banana flavor beautifully.
• Berries Medley: A mix of blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries adds a burst of tartness.

Enjoy with Beverages

• Coffee: A warm cup of coffee enhances the flavor of the bars and makes for a perfect morning treat.
• Herbal Tea: Pairing these bars with a soothing herbal tea can create a relaxing afternoon snack.

Add Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream balances the sweetness of the bars for an indulgent dessert.
• Coconut Sorbet: For a refreshing twist, coconut sorbet offers a light complement to the rich flavors.

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 turn out delicious every time.

• 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 moist; overmixing can lead to tough bars.
• Watch Baking Time Closely: Every oven is different. Check for doneness around 20 minutes to avoid overbaking.
• Cool Before Icing: Allow the bars to cool slightly before icing for better spreading and texture.
• Whisk Until Smooth: Ensure your brown butter icing is completely smooth for an even and beautiful finish.

Best Side Dishes for Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing

Pairing side dishes with your Banana Bars can enhance their appeal at any meal. Here are some great options that complement their flavors wonderfully.

1. Greek Yogurt: A dollop of creamy Greek yogurt adds protein and balances sweetness.
2. Granola: Crunchy granola provides texture contrast, making each bite interesting.
3. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad brightens up the plate with color and freshness.
4. Nut Mix: A handful of mixed nuts brings crunchy flavors that pair nicely with banana desserts.
5. Chia Seed Pudding: This healthy option can add a nutritious element alongside your sweet treat.
6. Chocolate Chip Cookies: For those who love sweets, pairing them alongside cookies creates a dessert lover’s feast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing can be a delightful experience, but avoiding common mistakes is crucial for success.

• Skipping the ripeness check: Always use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and moisture. If your bananas are not ripe enough, they won’t blend well or provide that sweet taste.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to dense bars. Stir gently until just combined for a light texture.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use proper measuring tools. Inaccurate measurements can drastically change the outcome of your bars.
• Ignoring cooling time: Allow the bars to cool slightly before icing them. This helps the icing spread evenly and creates a perfect melt-in-your-mouth effect.
• Using cold butter: If using brown butter, let it cool slightly before mixing into your icing. Hot butter can cause the powdered sugar to dissolve too quickly.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep the bars cool to maintain their texture and flavor.

Freezing Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Reheating Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Place bars on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one bar at a time on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm 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, thawed frozen bananas work well! Just ensure they are fully mashed before adding them to the batter.

What can I substitute for sour cream in this recipe?

You can use plain yogurt or buttermilk as alternatives to sour cream while still achieving moistness.

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

Look for golden-brown edges and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Can I customize my Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing?

Absolutely! Consider adding nuts, chocolate chips, or spices like cinnamon for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

These Banana Bars with Brown Butter Icing are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them to suit your taste preferences. Whether you enjoy them as an afternoon treat or dessert, these bars are sure to please everyone. Try making them today!