This past week was a tough one to get through. What happened? Some things believe it or not, Dan and I will keep to ourselves. But I must say we are super grateful for our friends and family. Life can throw you through twists and turns you never see coming. I usually bounce right back after something throws me off the track, but this past week slowed me down a little. I’m glad to say we are a positive bunch around here. And, our lovely friends and family keep us smiling each day. SO grateful for the hubs, and my sweet energetic kids that keep the days packed with laughter.
What’s a girl to do when she’s having a tough week? Bake of course. Dan should be grateful. I am not a girl who turns to retail to let out her emotions and unload my tears onto a charge card. Just hand me a bucket of flour, and sprinkle in some spices and I truly feel like I sat through an hour-long yoga session.
On the bright side Dan and I have been getting a ton of action over here. C’mon guys, get your heads outta the gutter. I meant in our house. A lot of people have been coming to see it, and a few have had a lot of interest so PLEASE send all house selling luck this way!
These banana bread bars were made on a whim the other evening. When momma was running low on steam, and chasing the kids around since 7am was taking its toll. I needed them in one spot for more than 5 minutes. I got 10. These bars are such a cinch to make. And the outcome is irresistible.
All you need is a bowl, a measuring cup, and a spoon. Add your ingredients and your well on your way to having a delicious snack on hand for yourself or your kiddos this week.
ingredients:
- 4 ripe bananas
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1 egg
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla
- 1 Tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- 1 1/2 cup unbleached all-purpose flour
- pinch of kosher salt
- (edit May 2014. I now use 1/3 cup packed brown sugar – less sugar for the littles. And 1 tsp of baking powder for extra fluff) 🙂
directions:
pre heat the oven to 350* Line a 9×13 baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal of the bars
In a large bowl, mash together the bananas and melted butter until the bananas are smooth with few chunks.
Add the egg, brown sugar, vanilla and maple syrup. Stir. Add the baking soda, cinnamon and salt and stir until it is mixed through. Finally, sprinkle in the flour, stirring until the flour is completely incorporated. Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish, and bake for 25-30 minutes. The bars will have a nice golden hue. Let them cool completely before you lift them out of the pan to slice. Store bars in an airtight container.