Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Soft yummy banana bars topped with cream cheese frosting are a delightful treat for any occasion! These Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are perfect for celebrations, family gatherings, or simply as a sweet snack at home. With their moist texture and rich flavor, they’re sure to become a staple in your dessert repertoire. The unique combination of ripe bananas and creamy frosting makes these bars irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple ingredients and minimal steps, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Deliciously Moist: Thanks to the ripe bananas, these bars are incredibly moist and flavorful.
• Versatile Treat: Serve them warm, cold, or as a part of a dessert platter; they adapt beautifully to any setting.
• Great for Sharing: With 20 generous servings, they are ideal for potlucks or gatherings with friends and family.
• Kid-Friendly: Children love the sweet taste and soft texture—perfect for lunchboxes or after-school snacks.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your banana bars, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and make it more 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: Perfect for creaming butter and sugar quickly and efficiently, ensuring a smooth batter.
• Baking pan: The right size is crucial for even baking; this size allows the bars to cook thoroughly without burning.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients separately before mixing them together smoothly.
• Rubber spatula: Great for scraping down the sides of bowls and ensuring all ingredients are well mixed.

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 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 to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

In a stand mixer, cream together:
1. Softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Beat in eggs one at a time.
3. Add in ripe bananas and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl:
1. Combine all-purpose flour, baking soda, and a pinch of salt.
2. Gradually add these dry ingredients into the creamed mixture in the stand mixer until just combined.

Step 4: Bake the Banana Bars

Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan:
1. Spread it evenly using a spatula.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Allow cooling completely before frosting.

Step 5: Make the Frosting

For the cream cheese frosting:
1. In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and cream cheese until smooth.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing on low speed until incorporated.
3. Stir in vanilla extract; mix until well blended.

Step 6: Frost Your Bars

Once cooled:
1. Spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top of your cooled banana bars using a spatula.
2. Cut into squares or rectangles as desired.

Enjoy your delicious banana bars with cream cheese frosting!

How to Serve Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving your banana bars with cream cheese frosting can elevate them to a delightful dessert experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance the flavors and presentation of your delicious treat.

Add Fresh Fruits

• Sliced Strawberries: Fresh strawberries add a burst of color and a juicy sweetness that complements the banana flavor.
• Blueberries: These berries provide a nice tartness that balances the sweetness of the bars.
• Banana Slices: For an extra banana kick, top your bars with fresh banana slices for added texture.

Pair with Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with the soft banana bars, creating a delightful contrast.
• Coconut Ice Cream: The tropical flavor of coconut ice cream adds an exotic touch to your dessert.

Drizzle with Sauce

• Caramel Sauce: A warm drizzle of caramel sauce can take your dessert to another level by adding richness.
• Chocolate Sauce: For chocolate lovers, a drizzle of chocolate sauce adds an indulgent twist.

How to Perfect Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

To make sure your banana bars turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Choose Ripe Bananas: Use very ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moistness in your bars.
• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Precision in measuring flour and sugar is key to achieving the right texture.
• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allowing the bars to cool fully prevents the frosting from melting into the cake.
• Adjust Frosting Thickness: If you want a thicker frosting, simply add more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.

Best Side Dishes for Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Pairing side dishes with banana bars can create a more rounded dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and balance to the rich flavors of the banana bars.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layers of yogurt and granola offer a creamy crunch that contrasts nicely with the softness of the bars.
3. Nut Mix: A blend of nuts can provide crunch and protein, making it a satisfying accompaniment.
4. Cheese Plate: Mild cheeses like brie or gouda can complement the sweetness without overpowering it.
5. Chia Pudding: This healthy option adds texture and nutrients while being light enough not to overshadow the dessert.
6. Coffee or Tea: A warm beverage enhances flavors and makes for a comforting pairing with your sweet treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Not using ripe bananas: Ripe bananas are sweeter and provide the right moisture for the bars. Always choose bananas that are brown or speckled for optimal flavor.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to dense bars. Mix just until combined to keep your banana bars light and fluffy.
• Skipping cooling time: Allowing the bars to cool completely before frosting is essential. This prevents the frosting from melting and ensures a beautiful presentation.
• Incorrect oven temperature: Make sure your oven is preheated correctly. An inaccurate temperature can cause the bars to bake unevenly. Use an oven thermometer if needed.
• Ignoring frosting consistency: If your cream cheese frosting is too thin, add more powdered sugar until you reach your desired thickness. This helps achieve the perfect spreadable texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store banana bars in an airtight container in the fridge.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days.

Freezing Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 10 minutes or until warm. This helps maintain their moist texture.
• Microwave: Heat one bar at a time for about 20-30 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place a skillet over low heat and warm each bar for a few minutes, ensuring they do not dry out.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting so special?

Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting stand out due to their moist texture and sweet flavor. The cream cheese frosting adds a rich, tangy contrast that elevates this dessert.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but it might result in denser bars. You may need to adjust the liquid slightly for best results.

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

Insert a toothpick into the center of the bars; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they are done baking.

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

Absolutely! Chopped nuts or chocolate chips can be added for extra flavor and texture. Just fold them into the batter before pouring it into the pan.

How long does it take to prepare Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting?

The total preparation and cooking time is about 40 minutes, making it a quick and easy dessert option.

Final Thoughts

Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are an irresistible treat that combines moist banana goodness with creamy sweetness. They are versatile enough for any occasion, and you can customize them by adding nuts or chocolate chips. Try this delightful recipe today!