Ooey Gooey Banana Bars (Printable Version)
# What You'll Need:
→ Banana Bar Base
01 -
227 g unsalted butter, melted
02 -
400 g brown sugar
03 -
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
04 -
2 large eggs, at room temperature
05 -
250 g all-purpose flour
06 -
1 teaspoon kosher salt
07 -
2 ripe bananas, mashed with some chunks (approximately 160 g or ⅔ cup)
→ Salted Caramel Buttercream
08 -
113 g unsalted butter, at room temperature
09 -
250 g confectioners' sugar, sifted
10 -
½ teaspoon kosher salt
11 -
82 g caramel topping
12 -
1.5 teaspoons whole milk, as needed
# Preparation Steps:
01 -
Preheat oven to 175°C. Line a 23×33 cm baking dish with parchment paper.
02 -
In a large bowl, blend melted butter with brown sugar using a hand mixer until well combined.
03 -
Add vanilla extract and mix on low speed until fully incorporated. Add eggs one at a time, continuing to mix on low just until combined.
04 -
Sift in all-purpose flour and kosher salt. Mix until a uniform batter forms.
05 -
Using a spatula, gently fold mashed bananas into the batter, maintaining some chunks for texture.
06 -
Transfer batter to the prepared baking dish and distribute evenly. Bake for 45 minutes or until the centre is set when tested with a skewer.
07 -
Allow bars to cool in the baking dish while preparing the buttercream.
08 -
In a stand mixer with paddle attachment, combine softened butter, confectioners' sugar, kosher salt, and caramel topping. Start mixing on low to incorporate sugar, then beat on high until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
09 -
If needed, blend in whole milk a teaspoon at a time to achieve a spreadable texture.
10 -
Once bars are completely cool, spread the buttercream evenly over the surface. Slice and serve.
# Additional Tips:
01 -
Ensure bars are fully cooled before frosting to prevent the buttercream from melting.