Ooey Gooey Banana Bars
Ooey Gooey Banana Bars are a deliciously sweet treat that combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with a rich, homemade salted caramel buttercream. These bars are perfect for any occasion, from casual family gatherings to special celebrations. Their moist texture and delightful flavor will satisfy any dessert lover’s cravings, making them an irresistible addition to your recipe collection.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of ripe bananas and salted caramel creates a unique taste that is both comforting and indulgent.
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these bars in no time.
- Versatile Dessert: Serve them warm as a cozy dessert or chilled for a refreshing treat. They are perfect for any time of the year!
- Crowd-Pleaser: These bars appeal to all ages, making them ideal for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings.
- Make Ahead Option: Bake them in advance and store them in the fridge for an easy dessert ready when you need it.
Tools and Preparation
To create your Ooey Gooey Banana Bars, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Electric mixer
- Baking pan (9×13 inches)
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: These allow you to combine ingredients without making a mess.
- Electric mixer: Saves time and effort while ensuring thorough mixing for a smooth batter.
- Baking pan: A good-quality pan ensures even cooking and easy removal of baked goods.
Ingredients
Ooey Gooey Banana Bars are sweet and moist dessert bars that are loaded with bananas and frosted with homemade salted caramel buttercream.
For the Bars
- 1 cup (2 sticks / 227 g) unsalted butter, (melted)
- 2 cups (400 g) brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs, (room temperature)
- 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 ripe bananas, (mashed; some chunks are okay – about ⅔ cup)
For the Frosting
- ½ cup (1 stick / 113g) unsalted butter, (room temperature)
- 2 cups (250 g) confectioners’ sugar, (sifted)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ cup (82 g) caramel topping
- 1 ½ teaspoons whole milk, (as needed)
How to Make Ooey Gooey Banana Bars
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bars cook evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan
Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper. This will help prevent sticking.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and eggs. Use an electric mixer on medium speed until well blended.
Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the all-purpose flour and kosher salt into the wet mixture. Mix until just combined but do not overmix.
Step 5: Incorporate Bananas
Fold in the mashed bananas gently using a spatula. Ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 6: Bake the Bars
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Make the Frosting
While the bars are cooling, prepare your frosting. In another mixing bowl, beat together room temperature butter, sifted confectioners’ sugar, kosher salt, caramel topping, and whole milk until smooth and creamy.
Step 8: Frost and Serve
Once the bars have cooled completely, spread an even layer of frosting on top. Cut into squares and enjoy your delicious Ooey Gooey Banana Bars!
How to Serve Ooey Gooey Banana Bars
Serving Ooey Gooey Banana Bars can elevate your dessert experience. Whether it’s a family gathering or a casual get-together, these bars can be enjoyed in various delightful ways.
A la Mode
- Top each bar with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast that enhances the banana flavor.
With Fresh Fruit
- Serve with slices of fresh strawberries or blueberries to add a refreshing touch and balance the sweetness.
Drizzled with Extra Caramel
- Add an extra drizzle of caramel sauce on top for those who love even more sweetness and richness.
Paired with Coffee
- Enjoy these bars alongside a cup of coffee or espresso to complement their sweetness with a bitter contrast.
As Part of a Dessert Platter
- Include them on a dessert platter with other treats like brownies and cookies for an indulgent spread.
How to Perfect Ooey Gooey Banana Bars
To ensure your Ooey Gooey Banana Bars turn out perfectly every time, follow these essential tips.
- Use Overripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bars will be.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the bars tender and moist.
- Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick; it should come out clean but not dry when the bars are done baking.
- Cool Before Frosting: Allow the bars to cool completely before adding frosting to prevent it from melting away.
- Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Ooey Gooey Banana Bars
Pairing side dishes with your Ooey Gooey Banana Bars can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options:
-
Whipped Cream
Light and fluffy, whipped cream adds an airy texture that complements the dense bars perfectly. -
Fruit Salad
A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet gooiness of the bars. -
Chocolate Chip Cookies
Classic cookies add variety and appeal, making your dessert table even more enticing. -
Yogurt Parfait
Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a creamy, tangy side that balances out the sweetness. -
Cheesecake Bites
Mini cheesecake bites offer a rich flavor that pairs well without overwhelming the palate. -
Nutty Granola Bars
For a crunch factor, serve homemade or store-bought granola bars alongside your banana treats.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To achieve the best results with your Ooey Gooey Banana Bars, it’s essential to steer clear of common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Skipping ripe bananas: Using unripe bananas can lead to a less sweet and flavorful bar. Always use overripe bananas for the best taste and moisture.
- Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can make the bars dry. Use the spoon-and-level method to ensure accurate measurement.
- Ignoring room temperature ingredients: Cold eggs or butter can affect the batter’s consistency. Let your ingredients sit out until they reach room temperature before mixing.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can create tough bars. Stir just until combined for a tender texture.
- Neglecting to cool completely before frosting: Frosting warm bars can cause it to melt away. Allow your Ooey Gooey Banana Bars to cool fully before applying the frosting.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing Ooey Gooey Banana Bars
- Freeze in an airtight container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating Ooey Gooey Banana Bars
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual pieces on a microwave-safe plate for 15-20 seconds.
- Stovetop: Warm in a non-stick skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Ooey Gooey Banana Bars:
What makes these bars ooey gooey?
The combination of ripe bananas and salted caramel buttercream creates a moist, soft texture that is wonderfully indulgent.
Can I substitute other ingredients in Ooey Gooey Banana Bars?
Yes! You can use coconut oil instead of butter or add nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
How should I store leftover Ooey Gooey Banana Bars?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.
Are these bars suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! They freeze well when wrapped properly, making them perfect for meal prep or future cravings.
How do I know when my bars are done baking?
The edges should be set, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
Final Thoughts
Ooey Gooey Banana Bars are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with different toppings or mix-ins based on your taste preferences. Whether you’re sharing them at a gathering or enjoying them as a cozy treat at home, these bars are sure to please everyone. Give this recipe a try and enjoy every delightful bite!
Ooey Gooey Banana Bars
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Approximately 18 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightfully sweet and moist Ooey Gooey Banana Bars, a perfect blend of ripe bananas and rich homemade salted caramel buttercream. Ideal for any occasion, these bars promise a comforting yet indulgent experience that will satisfy dessert lovers of all ages. Whether served warm or chilled, they make an irresistible addition to your baking repertoire. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, these bars can be made ahead of time for effortless entertaining. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this delicious dessert that’s sure to impress!
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)
- For the Frosting: ½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature), 2 cups confectioners' sugar (sifted), ½ teaspoon kosher salt, ¼ cup caramel topping, whole milk as needed
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and eggs using an electric mixer until blended.
- Gradually mix in the flour and kosher salt until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Fold in the mashed bananas gently with a spatula.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- For the frosting, beat together room temperature butter, sifted confectioners' sugar, kosher salt, caramel topping, and whole milk until smooth.
- Once cooled completely, frost the bars evenly before cutting into squares.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (70g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 140mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
