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Ooey gooey banana bars are hands down the treat I bake most whenever I have ripe bananas on the counter and a craving for something extra special. Imagine plush banana cake squares packed with real banana flavor topped by a dreamy salted caramel buttercream that is just the right mix of sweet and salty. These bars are always a hit at potlucks and family brunches way more exciting than banana bread but just as easy.
Every time I make these my house smells absolutely amazing and nobody can resist sneaking seconds especially my kids who are obsessed with that sweet caramel swirl.
Ingredients
- Unsalted butter melted: brings richness and moisture to the bar every bite stays soft
- Brown sugar: adds depth and warmth choose a fresh pack for gooey texture
- Vanilla extract: boosts aroma pure extract gives the richest flavor
- Large eggs room temperature: ensures batter blends easily
- All-purpose flour: gives structure to the bar no need for cake flour
- Kosher salt: sharpens all the sweet notes and balances banana
- Ripe bananas mashed: the riper the better for sweetness with a few chunks for good texture
- Confectioners sugar: makes an ultra smooth frosting sift for easy blending
- Caramel topping: the star of the buttercream pick a thick sauce or make your own for bold flavor
- Whole milk: adjusts frosting texture any milk works in a pinch
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Pan:
- Line a 9 by 13 inch dish with parchment paper so the bars lift out smoothly with no sticking
- Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- Whisk melted butter and brown sugar in a large bowl until glossy and thick this makes sure the sweetness is spread all through
- Add Flavors:
- Stir in vanilla extract to build the aroma then mix in eggs one at a time at low speed so everything stays silky
- Incorporate the Dry Ingredients:
- Add flour and salt bit by bit mixing until everything is incorporated and smooth but not overmixed so the bars stay tender
- Fold in Bananas:
- Gently stir in your mashed bananas do not overblend leave a few chunks for extra banana flavor bursts
- Bake the Bars:
- Pour batter into lined pan and smooth the top bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 45 minutes or until center is set check with a toothpick and let cool fully in the pan
- Make the Salted Caramel Buttercream:
- Combine room temperature butter confectioners sugar salt and caramel topping in a stand mixer start low and increase speed until the frosting gets thick creamy and fluffy about two minutes add milk as needed for perfect spreading texture
- Frost the Bars:
- Once bars have cooled spread over the caramel buttercream in luscious swirls and let set before cutting into squares
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Caramel is my favorite part here I always sneak a spoonful of leftover buttercream while I am finishing the bars and my mom loves telling the story of how these first disappeared from her birthday table before she got a second piece
Storage tips
Store these banana bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. After that refrigerate to keep them soft and fresh for up to five days. For longer storage wrap tightly and freeze individual squares. Thaw in the fridge overnight or zap in the microwave to enjoy that gooey middle again.
Ingredient substitutions
Out of brown sugar white sugar mixed with a little molasses brings a similar flavor. If you skip the caramel try maple syrup in your frosting instead. Dairy free butter works perfectly for both bars and buttercream.
Serving suggestions
Serve bars plain cut into thick squares for picnics or tea. Dress them up on a platter dusted with a bit of extra sea salt for a fancy brunch. My favorite treat is to enjoy a slice slightly warmed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting on top.
Cultural inspiration
Banana bread has roots in American kitchens as a way to repurpose overripe fruit. These ooey gooey bars are a next level twist the buttercream turning morning snack into a complete dessert perfect for celebrations but quick enough for an after school treat.
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Woo your friends with these gooey banana bars—you just might need to hide a piece for yourself. Bake them once and they'll be requested on repeat.
Common Questions
- → How ripe should the bananas be?
Use bananas with deep yellow skins and brown spots for the richest flavor and softest texture.
- → Can I substitute the caramel topping in the frosting?
Yes, homemade or store-bought caramel sauce both work well, just ensure it's thick for best results.
- → What's the best way to store these bars?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- → Can the bars be made in advance?
Absolutely! Prepare a day ahead and frost just before serving for optimal taste and texture.
- → Do I need a mixer for the frosting?
A stand or hand mixer helps achieve a light, fluffy buttercream, but strong whisking can work in a pinch.