Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Soft yummy banana bars topped with cream cheese frosting are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a casual get-together, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting offer a unique blend of flavors and textures that make them irresistible. With their moist, fluffy base and creamy topping, they’re sure to become a cherished family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy bakers.
• Deliciously Moist: The ripe bananas create a soft texture that pairs perfectly with the rich cream cheese frosting.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these banana bars as a dessert, snack, or even breakfast treat!
• Family Favorite: A recipe trusted by families for generations — everyone loves them!
• Customizable Topping: Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To make these delicious banana bars, you’ll need a few essential tools that will ensure your baking experience is seamless and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• 15 x 10 x 1 inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Toothpick

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar together for a smooth consistency.
• Baking pan: The right size ensures even baking and helps achieve the perfect texture for your banana bars.

Ingredients

Soft yummy banana bars topped with cream cheese frosting! A trusted family favorite!

For the Banana Bars

• ½ cup butter (softened)
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 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: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a stand mixer, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 3: Mix in Eggs and Bananas

Add in the large eggs, ripe bananas, and vanilla extract. Beat until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the creamed butter mixture. Mix well until fully combined.

Step 5: Bake the Bars

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow to cool completely.

Step 6: Make the Frosting

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

Step 7: Frost Your Bars

Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled banana bars before cutting them into squares for serving. Enjoy your delicious creation!

How to Serve Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving banana bars with cream cheese frosting can elevate any gathering or dessert occasion. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive celebration, these delicious bars can be paired with a variety of accompaniments to enhance their flavor and presentation.

Pair with Coffee

• A warm cup of coffee complements the sweetness of the banana bars perfectly. The bitterness of the coffee balances the creamy frosting.

Add Fresh Fruit

• Serve slices of fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries alongside the bars. Their tartness provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.

Ice Cream Delight

• Top each bar with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. The cold creaminess pairs beautifully with the moist banana bars.

Garnish with Nuts

• Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and flavor. This also adds a lovely texture that contrasts with the soft bars.

Serve with Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra creaminess. This makes each bite even more delightful and visually appealing.

Create a Dessert Platter

• Assemble a dessert platter featuring banana bars, cookies, and brownies. This offers variety and allows guests to sample different treats.

How to Perfect Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

To achieve the best banana bars with cream cheese frosting, consider these simple yet effective tips. They will help ensure your dessert turns out perfectly every time.

• Use Ripe Bananas: Choose bananas that are very ripe, as they provide natural sweetness and flavor enhancement.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep your bars light and fluffy; overmixing can lead to dense texture.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperature, as this can affect cooking time.
• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow your banana bars to cool completely before adding frosting for better adherence and presentation.
• Adjust Frosting Thickness: If you prefer thicker frosting, add more powdered sugar gradually until desired consistency is reached.
• Store Properly: Keep leftover bars in an airtight container in the fridge for freshness; they taste great chilled!

Best Side Dishes for Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Banana bars with cream cheese frosting can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance your dessert experience. Here’s a selection that pairs well:

1. Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the richness of the bars.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy and crunchy side that’s perfect alongside banana treats.
3. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over banana bars creates an indulgent twist that chocolate lovers will adore.
4. Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats add texture and coconut flavor that harmonizes nicely with banana flavors.
5. Caramel Sauce: Offer caramel sauce as a dip to enhance the sweetness and create a decadent experience.
6. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese on a platter for an unexpected savory contrast to sweet desserts.
7. Chia Seed Pudding: This healthy option provides a creamy texture and nutty flavor that pairs well without overwhelming sweetness.
8. Mini Muffins: Serve assorted mini muffins as bite-sized companions that complement the flavors of your banana dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making banana bars with cream cheese frosting can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes is key to perfecting this delightful dessert.

• Incorrect ripeness of bananas: Using unripe bananas can lead to a lack of flavor and sweetness. Always choose medium ripe bananas for the best results.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make the bars dense and chewy. Mix just until combined for light, fluffy banana bars.
• Skipping the cooling time: Cutting into warm bars affects texture and frosting application. Allow the bars to cool completely before frosting.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Incorrect measurements can ruin your recipe. Use measuring cups and spoons for precise quantities.
• Using cold butter or cream cheese: Cold ingredients don’t blend well, resulting in lumps. Ensure both are softened for a smooth frosting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store banana bars with cream cheese frosting in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Containers: Use an airtight container to keep them fresh and prevent drying out.

Freezing Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Duration: You can freeze banana bars for up to 3 months.
• Containers: Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Reheating Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes. Cover with foil if needed to prevent browning.
• Microwave: Heat individual servings on low power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place a bar in a pan over low heat, covering it with a lid for a couple of minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen bananas for banana bars with cream cheese frosting?

Yes, you can use thawed frozen bananas. Just ensure they are well-drained before mixing into your batter.

What can I substitute for cream cheese in the frosting?

For a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese as substitutes while maintaining similar flavors.

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

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

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to my banana bars?

Absolutely! Adding nuts or chocolate chips will enhance the flavor and texture of your banana bars with cream cheese frosting.

How should I serve banana bars with cream cheese frosting?

These delicious treats are best served chilled or at room temperature. They make excellent snacks or desserts!

Final Thoughts

Banana bars with cream cheese frosting are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. Their soft texture pairs wonderfully with the rich cream cheese topping, making them a family favorite. Feel free to customize your recipe by adding nuts or chocolate chips! Try making these delicious treats today!

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Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

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

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Description

Banana bars with cream cheese frosting are a delightful and versatile treat that will satisfy your sweet cravings. These soft, moist bars feature ripe bananas blended into a fluffy base, perfectly complemented by a rich and creamy frosting. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a casual snack, these banana bars are sure to become a family favorite. With just a few simple ingredients and quick preparation, you can whip up this delicious dessert in under an hour!

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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
• Salt (pinch)
• 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 your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 15 x 10 x 1 inch baking pan with non-stick spray.
2. In a stand mixer, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until fluffy.
3. Mix in eggs, mashed ripe bananas, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt; gradually add to the banana mixture until fully combined.
5. Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool completely.
6. For the frosting, beat together softened butter and cream cheese; gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth.
7. Spread the frosting evenly over cooled banana bars before slicing into squares.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 35mg