Banana Caramel Crumb Bars
Highlighted under: Hearty Food Recipes
Deliciously sweet and indulgent, these Banana Caramel Crumb Bars combine the flavors of ripe bananas and rich caramel, all atop a buttery crumb crust.
These Banana Caramel Crumb Bars are the perfect treat for banana lovers. The combination of sweet banana and gooey caramel, all encased in a crumbly base, will leave you wanting more. Ideal for sharing at parties or enjoying as a midday snack, these bars are sure to please.
Why You'll Love These Bars
- Sweet and gooey caramel pairs perfectly with ripe bananas
- Buttery crumb crust adds a delightful texture
- Easy to make and perfect for sharing with friends
Perfect for Any Occasion
Banana Caramel Crumb Bars are a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed at any gathering. Whether you're hosting a birthday party, a potluck, or simply having friends over for coffee, these bars are sure to impress. Their delightful combination of flavors makes them a crowd-pleaser, while the easy-to-share format means everyone can enjoy a slice without any fuss.
These bars also make a fantastic treat for family get-togethers. The sweet aroma of bananas and caramel wafting through your home will draw everyone to the kitchen. Serve them warm, or let them cool and cut them into neat squares for a beautiful presentation. Either way, they’re bound to become a favorite!
Healthier Indulgence
While these bars are undeniably a sweet treat, they also incorporate the natural goodness of bananas. Ripe bananas not only add natural sweetness but also provide essential nutrients like potassium, vitamin C, and dietary fiber. This means you can indulge a little without feeling too guilty!
Additionally, using rolled oats in the crust adds a wholesome touch. Oats are known for their heart-healthy benefits and can help keep you feeling full longer. By enjoying a piece of this dessert, you're not just satisfying your sweet tooth—you're also getting a dose of beneficial ingredients.
Make Ahead and Store
Banana Caramel Crumb Bars are perfect for making ahead of time. You can prepare them a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully overnight. Simply store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This makes them ideal for meal prep or for those busy weeks when you need a treat on hand.
If you want to keep them longer, these bars also freeze well. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. This way, you can always have a delicious homemade dessert ready to go!
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Crust and Crumb Topping
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Filling
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Mix well and set aside.
Instructions
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9 inch baking pan.
Prepare the Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, melted butter, baking soda, and salt. Mix until crumbly, then press half of the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan.
Make the Filling
In another bowl, mix the mashed bananas, caramel sauce, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until well combined. Spread the filling over the crust in the pan.
Add the Topping
Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over the banana filling evenly.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown. Let cool before cutting into bars.
Enjoy your delicious Banana Caramel Crumb Bars!
Tips for Success
To achieve the best results with your Banana Caramel Crumb Bars, ensure that your bananas are perfectly ripe. Look for bananas that are heavily speckled with brown spots, as this indicates optimal sweetness and flavor. Overripe bananas will yield a richer filling, enhancing the overall taste of the bars.
When measuring your flour, make sure to spoon it into the measuring cup rather than scooping directly from the bag. This will prevent the flour from becoming packed, which can lead to a denser crust. A light hand will ensure your crumb topping remains wonderfully flaky and tender.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are delightful on their own, but you can elevate the experience by serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The creamy texture will complement the gooey caramel and soft bananas perfectly, creating a dessert that feels indulgent yet comforting.
For an added touch of elegance, drizzle some extra caramel sauce over the top just before serving. This not only enhances the presentation but also gives your guests a little extra sweetness. A sprinkle of sea salt can also elevate the flavors, balancing the sweetness of the bars beautifully.
Variations to Try
Feel free to get creative with the filling! Consider adding a handful of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for added crunch. This not only enhances the texture but also adds a delightful nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with bananas and caramel.
You can also experiment with different spices. A pinch of nutmeg or a dash of cardamom can add an exciting twist to the classic flavor profile. Alternatively, substitute the caramel sauce with chocolate sauce for a decadent chocolate-banana version of these crumb bars. The possibilities are endless!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes, just thaw and drain any excess moisture before mashing.
→ How do I store the leftover bars?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
→ What can I use instead of caramel sauce?
You can use homemade caramel or dulce de leche as an alternative.
Banana Caramel Crumb Bars
Deliciously sweet and indulgent, these Banana Caramel Crumb Bars combine the flavors of ripe bananas and rich caramel, all atop a buttery crumb crust.
Created by: Lena
Recipe Type: Hearty Food Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 bars
What You'll Need
For the Crust and Crumb Topping
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Filling
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9 inch baking pan.
In a mixing bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, melted butter, baking soda, and salt. Mix until crumbly, then press half of the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan.
In another bowl, mix the mashed bananas, caramel sauce, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until well combined. Spread the filling over the crust in the pan.
Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over the banana filling evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown. Let cool before cutting into bars.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 100mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 15g
- Protein: 3g