Ooey Gooey Banana Bars
Ooey Gooey Banana Bars are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavor of ripe bananas with a luscious salted caramel buttercream frosting. These bars are perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to cozy nights in. With their sweet, moist texture and unforgettable taste, they are sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of bananas and salted caramel creates a uniquely delicious profile that will have everyone coming back for more.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip these up in no time, making them perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
- Perfect for Sharing: This recipe yields 12 generous servings, making it an ideal choice for parties, potlucks, or just sharing with friends and family.
- Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a dessert or a sweet snack throughout the day; these bars fit seamlessly into any occasion.
- Moist Texture: Thanks to the bananas and the careful balance of ingredients, each bite is soft and chewy—truly ooey gooey!
Tools and Preparation
To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to create your Ooey Gooey Banana Bars.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Baking pan (9×13 inch)
- Parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining your wet and dry ingredients thoroughly.
- Rubber spatula: Perfect for scraping down the sides of bowls and folding in banana chunks without damaging them.
Ingredients
To make delicious Ooey Gooey Banana Bars, gather the following ingredients:
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). Prepare your baking pan by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine melted butter and brown sugar until well blended.
2. Add in vanilla extract and eggs. Mix until smooth.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
In another bowl:
1. Whisk together all-purpose flour and kosher salt.
2. Gradually add dry mixture to wet mixture while stirring gently until just combined.
Step 4: Incorporate Bananas
Gently fold in the mashed bananas, ensuring some small chunks remain for added texture.
Step 5: Bake the Bars
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan:
1. Spread evenly using a rubber spatula.
2. Bake in preheated oven for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Make the Frosting
While bars cool:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine room temperature butter with sifted confectioners’ sugar.
2. Mix until creamy then add kosher salt, caramel topping, and milk as needed until you reach desired consistency.
Step 7: Frost the Bars
Once cooled completely, spread the frosting evenly over the top of the bars. Cut into squares and enjoy your Ooey Gooey Banana Bars!
How to Serve Ooey Gooey Banana Bars
Serving Ooey Gooey Banana Bars is a delightful experience that can elevate any gathering. These moist dessert bars are not just a treat, but they also pair well with various accompaniments.
With Fresh Fruit
- Sliced Strawberries: The tartness of fresh strawberries complements the sweetness of banana bars.
- Mixed Berries: A combination of blueberries and raspberries adds a refreshing twist.
With Ice Cream
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic choice that enhances the flavors of the bars.
- Salted Caramel Ice Cream: This pairs beautifully with the salted caramel buttercream topping.
With Whipped Cream
- Homemade Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds lightness to each bite.
- Flavored Whipped Toppings: Try adding vanilla or almond extract for extra flavor.
As Part of a Dessert Platter
- Dessert Bars Variety: Include other bar desserts alongside for a delicious spread.
- Bite-Sized Treats: Cut into smaller pieces for easy sharing at gatherings.
How to Perfect Ooey Gooey Banana Bars
To achieve the best results when making your Ooey Gooey Banana Bars, follow these simple tips for a perfect bake.
- Use Ripe Bananas: Ripe bananas are sweeter and mash easily, contributing to the moisture of the bars.
- Don’t Overmix: Gently fold in ingredients to maintain a light texture; overmixing can make them dense.
- Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow the bars to cool fully before adding caramel buttercream to prevent melting.
- Adjust Sweetness as Needed: Taste the batter; if using very ripe bananas, you may want less sugar.
- Store Properly: Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Ooey Gooey Banana Bars
Pairing your Ooey Gooey Banana Bars with complementary side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to sweet bars.
- Nutty Granola: Add crunch and texture with granola; it can be enjoyed on the side or sprinkled on top.
- Chocolate Drizzle: A drizzle of melted chocolate can elevate the bars’ sweetness and add richness.
- Cheese Plate: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a savory balance.
- Coffee or Tea: A warm beverage pairs nicely, enhancing the flavors of the banana bars.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with fruits and granola to create a delicious accompaniment.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking Ooey Gooey Banana Bars can be a delightful experience, but avoiding certain pitfalls can make all the difference.
- Using Overripe Bananas: While ripe is good, overly mushy bananas can add too much moisture. Choose bananas that are ripe but still firm for the best results.
- Skipping the Butter Temperature: Room temperature butter is essential for creamy frosting. Cold butter will not blend well, leading to a lumpy texture.
- Not Measuring Flour Correctly: Too much flour can make your bars dry. Always spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off.
- Ignoring Baking Times: Every oven is different. Start checking your bars a few minutes before the recommended bake time to avoid overbaking.
- Frosting Too Soon: Allow your banana bars to cool completely before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and losing its shape.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Keep them on a shelf, not in the door, for optimal freshness.
Freezing Ooey Gooey Banana Bars
- Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag.
- They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating Ooey Gooey Banana Bars
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place bars on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat each bar for about 15-20 seconds. Check carefully to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat. Cover and warm for 5-8 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Ooey Gooey Banana Bars.
What makes Ooey Gooey Banana Bars so special?
These bars are moist and rich thanks to ripe bananas and a decadent salted caramel buttercream topping that takes dessert to another level.
Can I use different types of bananas?
You can use any type of bananas, but Cavendish bananas offer the best flavor and sweetness for these bars.
How do I customize my Ooey Gooey Banana Bars?
Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor. You can also experiment with different toppings!
Are these bars suitable for freezing?
Yes! They freeze well, allowing you to enjoy your delicious treats anytime without compromising flavor or texture.
How long do leftover Ooey Gooey Banana Bars last?
When stored properly, they will last in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Final Thoughts
Ooey Gooey Banana Bars are not only delightful but also versatile enough for various occasions. Customize them with your favorite mix-ins or toppings to suit your taste. Don’t hesitate; try this recipe today and enjoy each sweet bite!
Ooey Gooey Banana Bars
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the bliss of Ooey Gooey Banana Bars, a delectable dessert that brings together the sweet richness of ripe bananas and a silky salted caramel buttercream frosting. These moist bars are perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to quiet nights at home, and will quickly become a cherished favorite in your dessert collection. With their soft texture and unforgettable flavor, each bite is a delightful experience that promises to keep everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 cups brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 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
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ cup caramel topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a greased or parchment-lined 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, mix melted butter with brown sugar until well combined. Add vanilla and eggs; mix until smooth.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture until just combined.
- Gently fold in mashed bananas.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- For the frosting, beat room temperature butter with sifted confectioners' sugar until creamy. Add salt, caramel topping, and milk as needed.
- Once cooled completely, frost the bars evenly before cutting them into squares.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 245
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
