Banana Bread Bars are a delightful twist on a classic treat, offering a moist texture and rich flavor that will have you reaching for seconds. The bars are perfect for any occasion, combining the sweetness of ripe bananas with a creamy frosting. Let’s get baking the scrumptious bars together.
For optimal flavor, use ripe bananas, as they add natural sweetness and moisture to the bars. If you’re looking for a nut-free option, feel free to skip the walnuts or substitute them with chocolate chips. Allergies should be considered when using sour cream, and you can also opt for a dairy-free version using yogurt or a non-dairy alternative. Quality ingredients make all the difference, so choose the freshest eggs and butter you can find.
Brownies & Bars
Banana Bread Bars Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 2 eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 – 4 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/2 cup butter
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease and flour a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan.
- In a large bowl, beat together 1 1/2 cups sugar, 1 cup sour cream, 1/2 cup softened butter, and 2 eggs until creamy and smooth.
- Blend in 3 – 4 mashed ripe bananas and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract until well combined.
- Add in 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 3/4 teaspoon salt; mix for about 1 minute until just incorporated.
- Gently stir in 1/2 cup chopped walnuts for added crunch.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared jelly roll pan, ensuring it’s nice and level.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- While the bars bake, prepare the frosting by heating 1/2 cup butter in a large saucepan over medium heat until it starts to boil. Keep an eye on it as it turns a delicate brown color, then remove from heat immediately after, to avoid burning.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together 4 cups powdered sugar, 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract, and 3 tablespoons milk until smooth. The frosting should be thicker than a glaze but not as thick as frosting.
- Once the bars are out of the oven and still warm, spread the brown butter frosting over the top using a spatula for an even layer.
Part of our Brownie and Bar Recipes collection — Part 1 of 4:
If you enjoy Banana Bread Bars, you’ll want to give Banana Bread Brownies a try. The brownies take the familiar flavors of banana bread and add a gooey, brownie-like texture that is simply irresistible.