Banana bars with cream cheese frosting are the epitome of dessert magic. Imagine biting into a soft, moist bar that tastes like a warm hug on a chilly day. The sweet smell of ripe bananas wafts through the air, intermingling with the rich, creamy aroma of cream cheese frosting. savory spring rolls It’s a delightful combination that will have your taste buds dancing faster than you can say “yum.”
I remember the first time I tried banana bars at my friend’s birthday party. They were so good that I may have committed a minor act of theft by sneaking back for seconds—okay, maybe even thirds! These bars are perfect for any occasion: from casual brunches to fancy dinner parties, they’ll make you the star of the dessert table. Get ready for a flavor experience that promises to transport you straight to dessert heaven.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These banana bars are incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for any baking novice.
- The flavor profile is delightful—sweet bananas paired with creamy frosting create an irresistible treat.
- Visually, they are stunning, topped with luscious cream cheese frosting and perhaps a sprinkle of nuts or chocolate chips.
- Versatile enough for brunch or as a late-night snack, these bars suit any occasion perfectly.
Ingredients for banana bars with cream cheese frosting
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ripe Bananas: Use about three medium-sized bananas; the riper they are, the sweeter your bars will be!
- All-Purpose Flour: This is your base; it gives structure to your delicious banana bars.
- Sugar: Regular granulated sugar adds sweetness; feel free to use brown sugar for more depth.
- Baking Soda: A must-have for making your bars rise and achieve that fluffy texture.
- Salt: Just a pinch helps balance out the sweetness of the bananas and frosting.
- Eggs: Two large eggs will bind everything together and add moisture.
- Butter: Melted butter adds richness; don’t worry about using too much—there’s no such thing here!
For the Frosting:
- Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese makes for a velvety-smooth frosting full of flavor.
- Powdered Sugar: This sweetener dissolves easily into your frosting for that perfect consistency.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash enhances the overall flavor and adds warmth to your frosting.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make banana bars with cream cheese frosting
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s always best to start with a hot oven so those banana bars can bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan
Grease a baking dish (approximately 9×13 inches) with nonstick spray or line it with parchment paper. No one wants their masterpiece stuck!
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, mash those ripe bananas until smooth. Add melted butter and mix well, then stir in sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients while stirring until just combined—don’t overmix!
Step 5: Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Make Cream Cheese Frosting
While waiting for those delicious banana bars to cool down, prepare your cream cheese frosting by beating softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth. If desired, add a splash of milk to achieve your preferred consistency.
Step 7: Frost Bars
Once cooled completely (impatience is not allowed here), spread that glorious cream cheese frosting over the top of your banana bars like you’re icing an award-winning cake.
Transfer to plates and indulge in this delightful treat! These banana bars with cream cheese frosting are sure to become a favorite in no time!
You Must Know
- These banana bars with cream cheese frosting are not just a treat; they bring joy to any gathering.
- The moistness of the bars combined with the creamy frosting creates a delightful experience that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.
- Easy to make and share!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, mash your ripe bananas and mix them with sugar and eggs. Combine your dry ingredients separately, then fold them into the banana mixture. Finally, pour it into a greased pan and bake until golden.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in some chopped nuts or chocolate chips for additional flavor. You can also experiment with different extracts like vanilla or almond to enhance the taste of your banana bars with cream cheese frosting.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover banana bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. For reheating, simply pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for that fresh-out-of-the-oven feel without losing moisture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve optimal flavor, use very ripe bananas as they provide natural sweetness and moisture.
- Avoid overmixing when combining wet and dry ingredients to keep your bars light and fluffy.
- For the best texture, let the bars cool completely before applying frosting for a smooth finish.
I once brought these banana bars with cream cheese frosting to a family picnic, and they disappeared faster than you can say “banana split!” Everyone raved about them, making me feel like a baking superstar that day.
FAQs :
What are banana bars with cream cheese frosting?
Banana bars with cream cheese frosting are a delicious dessert that combines the richness of ripe bananas and the creamy texture of cream cheese frosting. These bars are moist, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to more formal events. perfect morning treat They are easy to make and can be enjoyed as a snack or dessert. The sweetness of the bananas complements the tangy cream cheese perfectly, creating a delightful treat that everyone will love.
How do I store banana bars with cream cheese frosting?
To keep your banana bars with cream cheese frosting fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This helps maintain their moisture and flavor while preventing them from drying out. You can also wrap individual bars in plastic wrap for convenience. They should stay fresh for up to five days in the fridge, but if you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just make sure to thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.
Can I freeze banana bars with cream cheese frosting?
Yes, you can freeze banana bars with cream cheese frosting! To do this, allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them into pieces. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
What variations can I make with banana bars?
You can easily customize your banana bars with cream cheese frosting by adding various mix-ins or toppings. Consider incorporating nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch. Chocolate chips or dried fruit like raisins or cranberries can also enhance the flavor profile. For a twist on the classic recipe, try adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for warmth and depth. Get creative and find your favorite combination! For more inspiration, check out this Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars recipe.
Conclusion for banana bars with cream cheese frosting :
In summary, banana bars with cream cheese frosting offer a delightful blend of flavors that can satisfy any sweet tooth. Their moistness from ripe bananas paired with creamy frosting makes them an irresistible treat. Storing these bars correctly ensures they remain fresh and tasty for days. delicious chocolate cupcake recipe Whether you choose to freeze them for later enjoyment or experiment with different variations, these banana bars are sure to become a favorite dessert in your home! Enjoy baking and sharing this delicious recipe!
Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful sweetness of banana bars with cream cheese frosting—an irresistible treat that combines moist, ripe bananas with a rich, velvety frosting. Perfect for brunches, gatherings, or late-night cravings, these easy-to-make bars are sure to impress friends and family alike. With every bite, enjoy a warm hug of flavor that will have everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients
- 3 medium ripe bananas
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 8 oz softened cream cheese
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. Mix in the melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- While cooling, prepare the frosting by beating cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Once cooled completely, spread frosting over the bars and slice to serve.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (60g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
