Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Soft yummy banana bars topped with cream cheese frosting are a delightful treat that everyone will love! These Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday party, family gathering, or just a sweet snack at home. With their moist texture and creamy topping, these bars provide a wonderful combination of flavors that will leave you craving more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Make: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip these up in no time!
• Deliciously Moist: The ripe bananas ensure the bars are soft and flavorful.
• Cream Cheese Frosting: This rich and creamy topping takes these banana bars to the next level.
• Versatile Dessert: Enjoy them as a dessert, snack, or even breakfast treat!
• Family Favorite: Trusted by many families, these bars are sure to become a staple in your home.

Tools and Preparation

To make these delicious banana bars, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will ensure your baking process is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Baking pan (15 x 10 x 1 inch)
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool makes creaming the butter and sugar effortless and ensures even mixing of ingredients.
• Baking pan: A proper size helps achieve the right thickness for your banana bars, ensuring they bake evenly.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make your own delicious Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting:

For the Banana Bars

• ½ cup butter (softened)
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 3 eggs (large)
• 3 medium ripe bananas
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• Salt (pinch)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

• ¼ cup butter (softened)
• 4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
• 2 ¼ cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Spray a 15 x 10 x 1 inch baking pan with non-stick spray and set it aside.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a stand mixer, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs one at a time, followed by the ripe bananas and vanilla extract. Beat until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients in your stand mixer. Mix well until just combined.

Step 4: Pour Batter into Pan

Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan. Use a rubber spatula to spread it evenly across the pan.

Step 5: Bake

Place the pan in your preheated oven. Bake for about 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow it to cool completely in the pan.

Step 6: Make the Frosting

For the cream cheese frosting, cream together the softened butter and cream cheese in a mixing bowl. Gradually add in the powdered sugar along with vanilla extract. Beat well until smooth; if you prefer thicker frosting, add more powdered sugar as needed.

Step 7: Frost Your Bars

Once your banana bars have cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top using an offset spatula or knife.

Enjoy your delicious Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting!

How to Serve Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Banana bars with cream cheese frosting are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a sweet snack, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.

Classic Serving

• Serve the banana bars at room temperature for the best flavor.
• Slice into squares and place them on a decorative platter for a nice presentation.

Pair with Coffee

• Enjoy these bars alongside a warm cup of coffee. The flavors complement each other wonderfully.

Ice Cream Topping

• Top each bar with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.

Fresh Fruit Garnish

• Add slices of fresh bananas or berries on top before serving to enhance the visual appeal and add freshness.

Drizzle of Caramel

• A light drizzle of caramel sauce over the frosting can add an extra layer of flavor that your guests will love.

Dessert Bar Setup

• Create a dessert bar featuring banana bars among other sweets, such as brownies and cookies, for variety at your gathering.

How to Perfect Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

To make the best banana bars with cream cheese frosting, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your bars come out perfectly every time.

• Use overripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bars will be.
• Measure ingredients accurately: Use precise measurements to ensure the right texture and taste.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Mix just until combined to keep the bars soft and fluffy.
• Allow cooling time: Let the bars cool completely before adding frosting; this prevents melting.
• Store properly: Keep leftover bars in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness.
• Experiment with flavors: Consider adding nuts or chocolate chips to customize your banana bars.

Best Side Dishes for Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

These banana bars pair well with certain side dishes that can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some ideas:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of banana bars.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a balanced dish that complements the richness of the frosting.
3. Nutty Granola: Serve a side of crunchy granola to add texture alongside your moist banana bars.
4. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese, which can balance the sweetness beautifully.
5. Herbed Salad: A light salad with greens and herbs can provide a refreshing counterpoint to dessert.
6. Chocolate Fondue: Offer chocolate fondue for dipping pieces of banana bar for an interactive dessert experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your baking experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using Overripe Bananas: While ripe bananas are essential, using overly brown ones can make the bars too mushy. Aim for bananas that are yellow with a few brown spots for the best flavor and texture.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Baking is a science, so be precise with your measurements. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure you have the exact amounts needed for success.
• Skipping the Cooling Step: If you frost the bars while they’re still warm, the frosting may melt and slide off. Allow the bars to cool completely before adding the cream cheese frosting for a perfect finish.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can lead to dense bars. Mix until just combined; this will keep your banana bars light and fluffy.
• Choosing the Wrong Pan Size: Using a pan that’s too small can cause your bars to overflow or bake unevenly. Stick to a 15 x 10 x 1 inch pan for optimal results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
• They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking them.

Freezing Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm bars for about 10 minutes. This helps restore their soft texture.
• Microwave: Heat individual bars on medium power for about 15-20 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as this can dry them out.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat with a lid for about 5 minutes. This method keeps them moist while warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting so special?

These banana bars are moist, flavorful, and topped with creamy frosting that perfectly complements their sweetness, making them a crowd favorite.

Can I substitute ingredients in Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting?

Yes! You can use applesauce instead of butter for a lighter version or substitute gluten-free flour if you need a gluten-free option.

How do I know when my banana bars are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, they are ready!

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to my Banana Bars?

Absolutely! Adding walnuts or chocolate chips can enhance flavor and texture. Just fold them into the batter before baking.

How should I store leftover Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days, or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them by adding nuts or swapping ingredients based on what you have on hand. Their moist texture and sweet flavor make them perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delightful combination of bananas and cream cheese frosting!

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Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

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• Author: Lucille
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 servings 1x

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Description

Satisfy your sweet tooth with our delightful Banana Bars topped with luscious Cream Cheese Frosting. These moist and flavorful bars are a perfect treat for any occasion, from birthday celebrations to cozy family gatherings. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser that combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with a rich, creamy frosting. The versatility of these bars allows you to enjoy them as a dessert, snack, or even breakfast! Make them today and watch them disappear in no time.

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Ingredients

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• ½ cup softened butter
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 3 medium ripe bananas
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• Pinch of salt
• ¼ cup softened butter (for frosting)
• 4 ounces softened cream cheese
• 2 ¼ cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 15 x 10 x 1 inch baking pan.
2. In a stand mixer, cream together butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time followed by mashed bananas and vanilla; mix well.
3. In another bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture; mix until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan and spread evenly.
5. Bake for about 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely in the pan.
6. For frosting, beat together softened butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla; mix until creamy.
7. Once cooled, frost the banana bars evenly.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar (45g)
• Calories: 190
• Sugar: 16g
• Sodium: 80mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 30mg