Banana bread bars are a delightful twist on traditional banana bread, offering a moist, tender texture with a rich banana flavor. These bars are perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert, and they pair beautifully with a variety of frostings or glazes. Whether you enjoy them plain or topped with a luscious brown butter frosting, they are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 4 ripe bananas, mashed
- 3 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- 4 tablespoons butter (for frosting)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Prepare the batter
- In a large bowl, cream together sugar, sour cream, butter, and eggs until smooth.
- Stir in mashed bananas and vanilla extract.
- Add flour, baking soda, and salt, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in walnuts, if using.
- Bake the bars
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 23-28 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Make the frosting
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat until it turns a delicate brown color.
- Remove from heat and whisk in powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Finish the bars
- Pour the warm frosting over the warm banana bread bars.
- Spread gently with the back of a spoon.
- Let cool before slicing into squares.
These banana bread bars are irresistibly soft and flavorful, with a hint of nuttiness from the walnuts and a rich sweetness from the frosting. They make a fantastic treat for gatherings or a cozy afternoon snack. Would you like a variation, such as a chocolate chip version or a gluten-free alternative? 😊