Banana Bars Recipe

Introduction

These Banana Bars are a deliciously moist and flavorful treat, perfect for using up ripe bananas. With a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg, they offer a warm, comforting taste ideal for any time of day.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 pinch ground nutmeg
• 3 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 1/2 cups mashed ripe bananas (about 3 medium)
• 1 1/4 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Frosting (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 10×15-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. Step 3: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then mix in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract.
4. Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture just until combined—avoid overmixing.
5. Step 5: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
6. Step 6: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Step 7: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting. If desired, spread frosting over the top before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use very ripe bananas with brown spots for the best natural sweetness and flavor.
• Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra texture.
• For a richer taste, try topping the bars with cream cheese frosting.
• If you prefer, substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier bar.

Storage

Store the banana bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. If frozen, thaw at room temperature and frost just before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, thaw frozen bananas completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing to avoid a soggy batter.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Absolutely. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend, making sure it includes xanthan gum for better texture.

Banana Bars Recipe

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4.5 from 54 reviews

Deliciously moist and flavorful Banana Bars made with ripe bananas, warm spices, and a soft buttery base. These bars are perfect for a sweet snack or dessert and can be topped with optional frosting for extra indulgence.

• Author: Maya
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes
• Yield: 24 bars 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Banana Bars

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 pinch ground nutmeg
• 3 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 1/2 cups mashed ripe bananas (about 3 medium)
• 1 1/4 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Frosting (Optional)

• Frosting of your choice for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 10×15-inch baking pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
2. Cream ingredients: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of ground nutmeg until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Then beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the mashed ripe bananas and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Combine ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet banana mixture just until combined, being careful not to overmix to maintain tenderness in the bars.
4. Bake: Spread the batter evenly into the greased baking pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes at 350°F, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bars comes out clean, indicating they are fully cooked.
5. Cool and frost: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, if desired, spread your choice of frosting evenly over the top before cutting into bars and serving.

Notes

• Ensure bananas are ripe with brown spots for maximum sweetness and flavor.
• Do not overmix the batter once you add the flour to keep the bars tender and moist.
• Frosting is optional; cream cheese frosting pairs particularly well with banana bars.
• Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
• These bars can be frozen for longer storage; thaw before serving.

Keywords: banana bars, banana dessert, easy dessert bars, moist banana bars, homemade banana bars, banana cake bars