Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Banana Bars with Brown Butter Frosting are moist, tender dessert bars bursting with ripe banana flavor and topped with a rich, nutty brown butter frosting. They’re easy to make, perfect for using overripe bananas, and ideal for potlucks, parties, or anytime you crave a comforting treat. The frosting takes them over the top with its toasty, caramel-like flavor.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the bars:
ripe bananas (mashed)granulated sugarsour cream or Greek yogurtunsalted butter (softened)eggsvanilla extractall-purpose flourbaking sodabaking powdersalt
For the brown butter frosting:
unsalted butter (for browning)powdered sugarvanilla extractmilk or creampinch of salt
directions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large bowl, cream together sugar and softened butter. Beat in eggs, sour cream, mashed bananas, and vanilla until smooth.
In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually mix dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
Pour batter into prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool completely before frosting.
To make frosting, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Continue cooking until it turns golden brown and smells nutty. Remove from heat.
Whisk in powdered sugar, vanilla, milk, and salt until smooth and spreadable.
Spread frosting over cooled bars. Let set before slicing.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields 20–24 bars.Preparation time: 15 minutesBaking time: 25–30 minutesCooling and frosting time: 45 minutesTotal time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Variations
Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter.
Stir in mini chocolate chips for extra sweetness.
Top with sliced bananas or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar.
Use browned butter in the batter for deeper flavor.
Swap sour cream with Greek yogurt for added protein.
storage/reheating
Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.Refrigerate for up to 5 days for longer freshness.Freeze unfrosted bars for up to 2 months; frost after thawing.
FAQs
Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, thaw and drain excess liquid before mashing.
What does brown butter taste like?
It has a rich, nutty, toffee-like flavor that enhances the frosting.
Do I need to refrigerate these bars?
Not necessary, but chilling can extend their shelf life.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
How do I know the butter is browned?
It turns golden and smells nutty—watch closely to avoid burning.
Can I make this into a cake?
Yes, bake in a 9×9 or 8×8 pan for a thicker, cakier version.
Do I have to use sour cream?
No, Greek yogurt or buttermilk are good substitutes.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a larger pan or bake in two batches.
Can I make these without frosting?
Yes, they’re delicious on their own or with a dusting of powdered sugar.
What’s the best way to cut clean bars?
Chill slightly, then cut with a sharp knife wiped clean between slices.
Conclusion
Banana Bars with Brown Butter Frosting are a heavenly blend of moist banana goodness and rich, buttery sweetness. Simple to make and impossible to resist, they’re perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself. Whether for dessert, a snack, or a sweet breakfast, these bars are a guaranteed favorite.
Print
Banana Bars with Brown Butter Frosting
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Banana bars with brown butter frosting are moist, cake-like dessert bars made with ripe bananas and topped with rich, nutty brown butter frosting. A delicious treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2–3 bananas)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
For the Brown Butter Frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2–3 tbsp milk (as needed for consistency)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add egg and vanilla, mixing well.
- Mix in mashed bananas and sour cream until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking dish and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let bars cool completely in the pan.
- For the frosting, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook until it turns golden brown and smells nutty, about 5–7 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Transfer brown butter to a mixing bowl and gradually beat in powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth and spreadable.
- Spread frosting over cooled banana bars. Slice and serve.
Notes
- Make sure bananas are very ripe for best flavor and moisture.
- Let brown butter cool slightly before mixing in sugar to prevent separation.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.