The sweet smell of baked banana bars with cream cheese frosting wafts through the air, wrapping you in a warm, cozy embrace. Imagine biting into a soft, moist piece of banana goodness topped with velvety cream cheese frosting that is as delicious as it is dreamy. sweet potato brownies Your taste buds will dance like nobody’s watching!
Now, picture a rainy afternoon where boredom lingers like an unwelcome relative. You decide to channel your inner baker, and voilà! These delightful banana bars with cream cheese frosting become your new best friend. Whether it’s for a family gathering or simply to satisfy that nagging sweet tooth, these bars bring joy and smiles to every occasion. For more inspiration, check out this Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation means you can whip these up even on a busy day.
- The flavor profile combines the richness of bananas with the tangy sweetness of cream cheese.
- Their golden-brown appearance makes them visually appealing and irresistible.
- Plus, they are versatile enough to serve as dessert or an afternoon snack!
Ingredients for banana bars with cream cheese frosting
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ripe Bananas: Use about 3-4 ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture in your bars.
- All-Purpose Flour: This is the base of your bars; sifted flour ensures a light texture.
- Sugar: Regular granulated sugar adds sweetness while brown sugar provides depth and moisture.
- Eggs: Two large eggs help bind the ingredients together for a perfect consistency.
- Baking Powder: This leavening agent will make your bars rise beautifully while keeping them fluffy.
- Salt: A pinch helps balance the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- Cream Cheese: This will be the star of your frosting—use full-fat for smooth, rich results.
- Butter: Softened butter lends richness to both the batter and frosting.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash adds warmth and complexity to the flavor profile.
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). Grease a baking pan (around 9×13 inches) with nonstick spray so those glorious banana bars won’t stick!
Step 2: Mash Those Bananas
In a mixing bowl, mash your ripe bananas until they reach a smooth consistency. If you’re feeling fancy, use a fork or potato masher—the more rustic, the better!
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another large bowl, combine the mashed bananas with melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined and smooth—embrace that creamy love!
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In yet another bowl (yes, we’re making things complicated), whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into your wet ingredients. Mix until just combined; don’t overdo it—you want those banana bars soft and tender!
Step 5: Bake It Up
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean—your kitchen should smell like heaven by now!
Step 6: Frosting Time
While those beauties cool down (if you can resist), prepare your cream cheese frosting by mixing softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until fluffy. Once cooled completely, slather that icing all over your banana bars like icing on the cake!
Transfer to plates and enjoy these delicious banana bars with cream cheese frosting that will have everyone begging for seconds!
You Must Know
- These banana bars with cream cheese frosting are not just a dessert; they’re a hug in food form.
- With ripe bananas and a creamy topping, they’re perfect for any occasion, be it a family gathering or a casual snack while binge-watching your favorite show.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
First, mash those ripe bananas until smooth. Next, mix in the sugar and eggs before adding in the dry ingredients. Bake until golden, then whip up that luscious cream cheese frosting while they cool. It’s all about time management to achieve that perfect texture and flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the nuts for chocolate chips or even dried fruit for an unexpected twist. You can also spice things up with a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg. Your banana bars can reflect your taste—get creative!
Storing & Reheating
Store your banana bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate them for longer freshness. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds—just enough to bring back that fresh-out-of-the-oven warmth.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For moist banana bars, use very ripe bananas—they add natural sweetness and flavor.
- Make sure not to overmix the batter; mix just until combined for the best texture.
- Lastly, let the bars cool completely before frosting them to avoid melting!
Sharing these banana bars with friends at my last get-together was priceless; their smiles said it all! Everyone kept asking for seconds while I casually pretended I didn’t bake them myself.
FAQs:
What are banana bars with cream cheese frosting?
Banana bars with cream cheese frosting are delicious baked treats made from ripe bananas, flour, sugar, and eggs. They have a soft and moist texture, making them a perfect dessert or snack. The cream cheese frosting adds a rich and tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the bananas. delicious chocolate poke cake These bars are easy to prepare and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. cozy cinnamon coffee cake quick chocolate mug cake They are ideal for using overripe bananas and make a delightful addition to any gathering.
How do I store banana bars with cream cheese frosting?
To store banana bars with cream cheese frosting, let them cool completely before covering them with plastic wrap or transferring them to an airtight container. You can keep them in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you want to preserve their freshness longer, consider freezing individual portions. Place the bars in an airtight container separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before enjoying your delicious treat.
Can I freeze banana bars with cream cheese frosting?
Yes, you can freeze banana bars with cream cheese frosting! Freezing is an excellent way to extend their shelf life. Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them into portions. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the refrigerator or at room temperature.
What can I substitute for cream cheese in frosting?
If you’re looking for alternatives to cream cheese in your frosting for banana bars, several options exist. Softened mascarpone cheese offers a similar texture and flavor profile. Greek yogurt can provide a healthier option while still being creamy; just add some powdered sugar for sweetness. Another choice is buttercream made with whipped butter and powdered sugar if you prefer a sweeter frosting without tanginess. Each of these substitutes will give your banana bars a unique twist!
Conclusion for banana bars with cream cheese frosting:
In conclusion, banana bars with cream cheese frosting are a scrumptious way to utilize overripe bananas while providing a moist and flavorful dessert option. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, they make for an enjoyable treat that everyone will love. Storing and freezing these tasty bars is straightforward, allowing you to savor them later. Whether shared at gatherings or enjoyed at home, this recipe is sure to impress!
Moist Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
These banana bars with cream cheese frosting are the ultimate comfort treat, perfect for using up overripe bananas. Soft, moist, and drizzled with a creamy frosting, they are irresistible at any gathering or simply as a sweet afternoon snack. Whip them up quickly and enjoy their delightful flavor that will leave everyone asking for more!
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas (mashed)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/4 cup 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 mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
- In another bowl, combine the mashed bananas with melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients; mix 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 frosting by blending cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until fluffy. Frost cooled bars generously.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
