Banana Bread Bars with Vanilla Bean Browned Butter Glaze

There’s something undeniably comforting about banana bread, and when you transform it into bars topped with a luscious vanilla bean browned butter glaze, the experience becomes even more delightful. These Banana Bread Bars with Vanilla Bean Browned Butter Glaze are perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or dessert. With rich flavors and a tender crumb, they will quickly become your new favorite way to enjoy ripe bananas.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These banana bread bars are not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. The combination of moist banana bread and the decadent vanilla bean glaze creates a treat that’s hard to resist. Here’s why you’ll love them:
– **Quick and Easy:** Perfect for busy mornings or last-minute guests.
– **Versatile:** Enjoy them as a breakfast option, a satisfying snack, or a sweet dessert.
– **Flavorful:** The browned butter adds a nutty depth, while the vanilla bean glaze takes it over the top.
– **Use Up Ripe Bananas:** A great way to use bananas that are past their prime!

What’s in the Bowl

To make these delicious Banana Bread Bars with Vanilla Bean Browned Butter Glaze, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 large egg
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 cup liquid-state coconut oil (canola or vegetable may be substituted)
• 1 cup sour cream (lite is okay; Greek yogurt may be substituted)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 large or 3 medium bananas)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• Pinch salt, optional and to taste
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, browned (see our how to brown butter tutorial)
• 2 cups confectioners sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste (or seeds from 1 large vanilla bean; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract may be substituted)
• Pinch salt, optional and to taste
• About 1/4 to 1/3 cup cream or milk, or as necessary for consistency

Prep & Cook Tools

Before you start baking, make sure you have the following tools on hand:

• Mixing bowls: For combining wet and dry ingredients.
• Whisk: To blend ingredients smoothly.
• Rubber spatula: Great for scraping down the sides of bowls.
• 9×13 inch baking pan: Perfect size for the banana bread bars.
• Parchment paper: Makes removing the bars easy.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Cooling rack: To cool the bars before glazing.

From Start to Finish: Banana Bread Bars with Vanilla Bean Browned Butter Glaze

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Brown the Butter

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter, stirring frequently until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the egg, light brown sugar, liquid-state coconut oil, sour cream, vanilla extract, and mashed ripe bananas until smooth.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and optional salt. Stir to mix.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.

Step 6: Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack.

Step 7: Prepare the Glaze

While the bars are cooling, make the vanilla bean browned butter glaze. In a medium bowl, whisk together the browned butter, confectioners sugar, vanilla bean paste, and optional salt. Gradually add cream or milk until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 8: Glaze the Bars

Once the banana bread bars are completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the top. Allow it to set before cutting into squares.

How to Make It Lighter

If you’re looking to lighten up your Banana Bread Bars with Vanilla Bean Browned Butter Glaze, consider these tips:

• Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a protein boost.
• Reduce the amount of brown sugar by 1/4 cup for less sweetness.
• Opt for unsweetened applesauce in place of some of the coconut oil.

Missteps & Fixes

Even the best of us can make mistakes in the kitchen. Here are some common missteps and how to fix them:

• Bars are too dry: Ensure you don’t overbake them. Check for doneness a few minutes early.
• Glaze is too thick: Add more cream or milk a tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
• Bananas aren’t ripe enough: Use bananas that have brown spots for the best flavor and sweetness.

Save It for Later

You can store your Banana Bread Bars with Vanilla Bean Browned Butter Glaze in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them:

• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.

Reader Questions

Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes! Frozen bananas are perfect for baking. Just thaw them and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

What if I don’t have vanilla bean paste? Can I use vanilla extract instead?

Absolutely! You can substitute 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract for the vanilla bean paste or seeds.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter?

Yes! Feel free to mix in 1/2 to 1 cup of chopped nuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The bars are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake!

You Might Also Like

If you love these Banana Bread Bars with Vanilla Bean Browned Butter Glaze, you might also enjoy:

• Banana Bread With Walnuts – A classic twist with a crunchy nutty texture.
• Caramel Banana Cake Roll – An indulgent dessert that combines caramel with banana flavors.

Let’s Eat

Now that you have your recipe for Banana Bread Bars with Vanilla Bean Browned Butter Glaze, it’s time to get baking! These bars are sure to impress and satisfy anyone who takes a bite. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or savor them later, they’re a delicious way to celebrate the humble banana. Happy baking!