Banana Bars with Salted Caramel Frosting

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Moist, tender banana bars get a luxurious upgrade with a generous slathering of salted caramel frosting in this bakery-style treat. Perfect for when you have overripe bananas sitting on the counter, this dessert delivers pure comfort with every bite. The bars are fluffy but dense enough to hold up the rich frosting, making them an irresistible combination of flavor and texture.

This is not your average banana bread. The salted caramel frosting elevates these bars into decadent territory, perfect for potlucks, bake sales, or just an afternoon pick-me-up. They’re easy to make, simple to store, and crowd-pleasing to the last crumb.

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What Makes These Banana Bars So Special?

It all starts with ripe bananas that bring natural sweetness and moisture to the batter. But what takes these bars over the top is the thick layer of salted caramel frosting. The balance of salty-sweet with the mellow banana flavor is next level. It’s a great way to use up bananas while making something that tastes anything but ordinary.

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Ingredients for the Banana Bars with Salted Caramel Frosting

Bananas – The riper, the better. Overripe bananas infuse the bars with deep sweetness and ensure a moist crumb.

Brown Sugar – Adds a warm, molasses-rich sweetness that complements the bananas.

Butter – Unsalted and softened for creaminess and richness in both the bars and frosting.

Eggs – Provide structure and help with the fluffy texture.

Vanilla Extract – Rounds out the flavors with a hint of warmth.

All-Purpose Flour – The base that holds everything together while keeping the texture tender.

Baking Soda – Ensures lift and soft texture.

Salt – Enhances all the flavors, especially in the caramel.

Powdered Sugar – For that silky smooth caramel frosting.

Heavy Cream – Helps thin out the caramel to a spreadable consistency while keeping it luscious.

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How To Make the Banana Bars with Salted Caramel Frosting

Step 1: Mash and Mix

Mash your ripe bananas in a large bowl. Add softened butter, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Mix until smooth and combined.

Step 2: Dry Ingredients Go In

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this to the banana mixture and stir just until no dry streaks remain.

Step 3: Bake to Golden

Spread the batter into a greased 9×13 inch pan. Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until golden and a toothpick comes out clean. Let the bars cool completely before frosting.

Step 4: Make the Salted Caramel Frosting

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and stir in brown sugar. Let it bubble for a couple of minutes. Add cream and a pinch of salt, then whisk in powdered sugar until smooth and spreadable. Let it cool slightly before frosting.

Step 5: Frost and Slice

Spread the caramel frosting generously over the cooled banana bars. Slice into squares and serve.

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Serving and Storing These Banana Bars

These bars are perfect served slightly chilled or at room temperature. The frosting sets beautifully, making them easy to transport or pack for a treat.

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week. They also freeze well—just wrap tightly and thaw when ready.

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What to Serve With Banana Bars with Salted Caramel Frosting?

Hot Coffee or Cold Brew

The richness of the caramel pairs beautifully with a strong brew.

Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

For an extra indulgent dessert plate.

Fresh Berries

A refreshing, tangy contrast to balance the sweet.

Caramel Apple Slices

Bring out more of those warm, autumnal notes.

Glass of Milk

A classic pairing, especially for little ones.

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Want More Dessert Bar Ideas?

If you love these Banana Bars with Salted Caramel Frosting, you’ll probably enjoy these other treats from Savor Queen:

• Salted Caramel Cupcakes for a handheld caramel hit.
• Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake for fruity, creamy decadence.
• Chocolate Caramel Toffee Crunch Cake if you’re craving texture and chocolate.
• Chocolate Banana Bread Pudding for banana lovers seeking extra indulgence.
• Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake to keep the caramel vibe going strong.

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Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe you added chopped nuts or a drizzle of chocolate? I’d love to hear your creative takes—drop a comment below!

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen.com on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

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