Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Soft yummy banana bars topped with cream cheese frosting are a delightful treat for any occasion. The Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are perfect for dessert tables, family gatherings, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth at home. With their moist texture and sweet flavor, they quickly become a favorite among both kids and adults. Plus, the simple preparation makes them an easy choice for novice bakers and seasoned pros alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: Each bite of these banana bars bursts with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas combined with creamy frosting.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly and requires minimal kitchen skills.
• Versatile Dessert: Enjoy these bars as a dessert, snack, or even breakfast treat; they fit any time of day!
• Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for parties or family get-togethers, everyone will love indulging in these tasty treats.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your delicious banana bars, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool makes creaming butter and sugar easy, ensuring a light and fluffy mixture.
• Baking pan: A proper size ensures even baking; using the right dimensions helps achieve the perfect texture.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the best flavor balance in 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 eggs (large)
• 3 medium ripe bananas
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• Salt (pinch)

For the 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. Set it aside while you prepare the batter.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a stand mixer, cream together ½ cup softened butter and 2 cups granulated sugar. Beat until light and fluffy. Then add in 3 large eggs, 3 medium ripe bananas, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the creamed mixture. Mix until just combined; don’t over-mix to keep your bars tender.

Step 4: Bake the Bars

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in your preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.

Step 5: Prepare the Frosting

In another mixing bowl, cream together ¼ cup softened butter and 4 ounces softened cream cheese. Gradually add in 2 ¼ cups powdered sugar along with another 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and creamy. If you prefer a thicker frosting, add more powdered sugar as needed.

Step 6: Frost Your Bars

Once cooled, spread your cream cheese frosting generously over the banana bars using a rubber spatula. Cut into squares or rectangles as desired for serving.

Enjoy these delightful Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting at any gathering or as an everyday treat that everyone will adore!

How to Serve Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Banana bars with cream cheese frosting are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re serving them at a party, family gathering, or simply indulging at home, here are some creative serving suggestions.

Pair with Fresh Fruits

• Sliced Strawberries – The sweetness of strawberries complements the richness of the banana bars perfectly.
• Citrus Segments – Oranges or grapefruits add a refreshing zest that balances the dessert’s sweetness.

Coffee or Tea

• A Hot Cup of Coffee – The bitterness of coffee pairs beautifully with the sweet banana bars.
• Herbal Tea – A mild herbal tea can enhance the flavors without overpowering them.

Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream – A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creaminess and contrast to the banana bars.
• Coconut Sorbet – For a dairy-free option, coconut sorbet provides a tropical twist.

Whipped Cream

• Lightly Sweetened Whipped Cream – A dollop on top adds extra lightness to each bite.

How to Perfect Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Perfecting your banana bars with cream cheese frosting takes just a few simple adjustments. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use Ripe Bananas – Overripe bananas, with brown spots, provide maximum sweetness and moisture.
• Room Temperature Ingredients – Ensure butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother frosting.
• Don’t Overmix – Mix just until combined to keep the bars tender and fluffy.
• Check for Doneness Early – Start checking your bars around 20 minutes to prevent overbaking.
• Chill Your Frosting – Chilling the frosting slightly helps it set nicely on top of the bars.

Best Side Dishes for Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Adding side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some delicious options to enjoy alongside your banana bars.

1. Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and color to your dessert table.
2. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a creamy complement.
3. Nut Mix – A handful of mixed nuts provides a crunchy texture that contrasts well with the soft bars.
4. Cheese Platter – Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a savory balance.
5. Chocolate-Covered Pretzels – The salty crunch pairs well with the sweet banana flavor.
6. Caramel Sauce – Drizzling caramel sauce over both the banana bars and sides can enhance sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting can be a delightful experience, but some common mistakes can hinder your results.

• Using Overripe Bananas: While ripe bananas are essential for flavor, overly mushy bananas can make the batter too wet. Aim for bananas that are ripe but still hold their shape.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Baking is a science, and improper measurements can lead to dense or dry bars. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure accuracy.
• Skipping the Cooling Time: It may be tempting to frost warm bars, but this can lead to a melted frosting mess. Allow the bars to cool completely before frosting.
• Using Cold Butter and Cream Cheese: Cold ingredients won’t blend well, leading to lumps in your frosting. Always soften butter and cream cheese before mixing.
• Not Adjusting Baking Time: Ovens vary, and baking times may differ. Check for doneness a few minutes early by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• These bars can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Place bars on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes. This keeps them moist.
• Microwave: Heat one bar at a time for about 15-20 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat as they can become tough.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a non-stick skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and heat for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting special?

Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are soft, moist, and full of rich banana flavor topped with creamy frosting that adds sweetness and tang.

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

Yes! Whole wheat flour can add nutritional value, but it may alter the texture slightly. You might need to adjust the liquid content.

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 just a few crumbs attached, they are done baking.

Can I customize my Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or even spices like cinnamon for added flavor variations.

Final Thoughts

These Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can easily customize them by adding your favorite mix-ins or toppings. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!