why make this recipe
Ooey Gooey Banana Bars are a delightful treat that combine the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with a rich, buttery base. These bars are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a bake sale, or just a cozy afternoon snack. The combination of the soft banana cake and creamy frosting topped with a drizzle of caramel makes them irresistible. Easy to make and hard to resist, they are sure to be a hit with everyone.
how to make Ooey Gooey Banana Bars
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 cups brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 ripe bananas (mashed)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 2 cups confectioners’ sugar (sifted)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ cup caramel topping
- Whole milk (as needed)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Beat in eggs one at a time.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Gradually add this to the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Fold in the mashed bananas gently.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 45 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow to cool completely before frosting.
how to serve Ooey Gooey Banana Bars
Once your Ooey Gooey Banana Bars have cooled, cut them into squares and serve them fresh. They are wonderful on their own but can also be topped with extra caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For an extra special touch, serve them warm with a drizzle of melted chocolate.
how to store Ooey Gooey Banana Bars
To store your delicious banana bars, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. For even extended storage, you can freeze them. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to three months.
tips to make Ooey Gooey Banana Bars
- Make sure your bananas are very ripe for the best flavor.
- When mixing the wet ingredients, don’t overmix the batter after adding the flour; just combine until you see no dry flour.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting off.
variation
You can customize these bars by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits to the banana batter for added texture and flavor. You can also swap the caramel for chocolate frosting for a different taste.
FAQs
Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, you can use frozen bananas! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before mashing.
Can these bars be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make them a day or two in advance. Just store them properly to keep them fresh.
What can I use instead of butter?
You can use apple sauce or coconut oil as a substitute for butter, though it may change the texture and flavor slightly.
