Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Soft yummy banana bars topped with cream cheese frosting are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. These Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are not only easy to make but also a family favorite that everyone will love. Their moist texture and sweet flavor make them an ideal dessert for gatherings, potlucks, or simply an afternoon snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have these delicious bars ready in no time.
• Perfectly Moist: The ripe bananas add natural moisture and sweetness, ensuring each bite is soft and flavorful.
• Versatile Frosting Options: While cream cheese frosting is a classic choice, you can easily customize it with different flavors or toppings.
• Great for Sharing: This recipe makes 20 bars, making it perfect for parties or sharing with friends and family.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids will love the sweet taste and fun texture, making it a great way to sneak in some fruit!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Baking pan (15 x 10 x 1 inch)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool ensures your butter and sugar are creamed perfectly, resulting in a fluffy batter.
• Baking pan: A proper size helps the bars bake evenly without burning or undercooking.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the best flavor and texture 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 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. Prepare a 15 x 10 x 1 inch baking pan by spraying it with non-stick spray. Set it aside for later use.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

In a stand mixer, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar. Cream them together until light and fluffy. Then add the eggs, ripe bananas, and vanilla extract into the mixture.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add this mixture to the creamed butter mixture. Blend until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Bake the Bars

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

Step 5: Make the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually incorporate the powdered sugar along with the vanilla extract. Beat well until you achieve a creamy consistency. For thicker frosting, add more powdered sugar as desired.

Step 6: Frost Your Bars

Once your banana bars have cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over them using a spatula. Cut into squares or rectangles for serving.

Enjoy these delicious Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting at your next event or as a delightful dessert at home!

How to Serve Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving banana bars with cream cheese frosting is a delightful way to enjoy this sweet treat. Whether for a family gathering or as an afternoon snack, there are various ways to present and enjoy these delicious bars.

Pair with Fresh Fruits

• Sliced Strawberries – Fresh, juicy strawberries add a vibrant color and a refreshing taste that complements the sweetness of the bars.
• Banana Slices – Enhance the banana flavor by serving with extra banana slices on top or on the side.
• Blueberries – A handful of blueberries can provide a nice tartness that balances the sweetness.

Add a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream – Classic vanilla ice cream pairs well and adds creamy richness to each bite.
• Coconut Ice Cream – For a tropical twist, coconut ice cream offers a unique flavor combination with the banana bars.

Enjoy with Beverages

• Iced Coffee – The bold flavor of iced coffee contrasts nicely with the sweet dessert.
• Herbal Tea – A calming cup of herbal tea can complement the bars without overwhelming their flavor.

How to Perfect Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Perfecting banana bars is all about attention to detail in both preparation and baking. Here are some tips to elevate your baking experience.

• Use Ripe Bananas – The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bars will be. Look for bananas with brown spots.
• Don’t Overmix Batter – Mix until just combined to keep your bars soft and tender. Overmixing can lead to dense results.
• Check Oven Temperature – Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate temperature. An incorrect setting can affect baking time and texture.
• Cool Completely Before Frosting – Let your bars cool completely to prevent the frosting from melting off when you spread it.

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 the overall dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a healthy contrast that balances sweetness.
2. Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad adds freshness and acidity, making it a perfect side.
3. Cheese Platter – Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda for a savory touch that pairs well with sweet flavors.
4. Granola Bars – Homemade granola bars can provide a crunchy texture alongside the soft banana bars.
5. Smoothies – A refreshing smoothie made from tropical fruits can enhance the dessert experience while keeping it light.
6. Nut Mix – A mix of nuts offers crunch and protein, making it a satisfying complement to the sweet dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final result.

• Incorrect Banana Ripeness: Using unripe bananas will not provide the sweetness and moisture needed for the bars. Always use medium ripe bananas for the best flavor and texture.
• Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can lead to dense bars. Mix just until combined to keep them light and fluffy.
• Skipping the Cooling Time: Cutting into warm bars can cause them to crumble. Allow the banana bars to cool completely before frosting or serving.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Incorrect measurements can ruin your recipe. Use standard measuring cups and spoons for precise results.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Every oven is different, and temperature variations can affect baking time. Always preheat your oven and check for doneness with a toothpick.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Warm bars for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat one bar at a time for 15-20 seconds on high.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour in Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but it may change the texture slightly. Start with half whole wheat flour and half all-purpose flour for best results.

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 moist crumbs, they are done.

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

Absolutely! Adding walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips can enhance flavor and texture. Just fold them in gently before baking.

How should I store leftover frosting?

Leftover cream cheese frosting can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Final Thoughts

Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful treat that combines moist banana goodness with creamy frosting. They’re perfect for any occasion, whether as a snack or dessert. Feel free to customize your bars by adding nuts or chocolate chips for an extra twist!