Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Soft yummy banana bars topped with cream cheese frosting are a delightful treat that everyone can enjoy! These Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a birthday party, or just a sweet indulgence after dinner. The combination of rich banana flavor and creamy frosting makes these bars irresistibly delicious, and they’ll surely become a go-to recipe in your dessert repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to Make: This recipe features straightforward steps that even novice bakers can follow easily.
• Delicious Flavor: The natural sweetness of ripe bananas combined with the creamy frosting creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Versatile Dessert: These banana bars are great for parties, potlucks, or simply enjoying at home. They can be served warm or chilled!
• Perfect for Ripe Bananas: This is an excellent way to use up overripe bananas that might otherwise go to waste.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With their moist texture and sweet frosting, they are sure to impress family and friends.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare these mouthwatering banana bars, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool helps to cream butter and sugar efficiently, ensuring a smooth batter.
• Mixing bowls: Using separate bowls for dry and wet ingredients keeps your preparation organized and prevents clumping.
• Baking pan: A proper-sized baking pan ensures even cooking and the perfect thickness for 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. Spray a 15 x 10 x 1 inch baking pan with non-stick spray to prevent sticking. Set the pan aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

In a stand mixer, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the mashed ripe bananas and vanilla extract until well blended.

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 dry mixture into the creamed butter mixture. Mix well until everything is combined smoothly.

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. Allow them to cool completely in the pan before frosting.

Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

In a mixing bowl, combine softened butter and cream cheese. Beat them together until smooth. Gradually add in powdered sugar along with vanilla extract. Mix until you achieve a creamy consistency; if it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar to thicken it.

Step 6: Frost the 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 delightful Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting as a sweet treat that everyone in your family will love!

How to Serve Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving banana bars with cream cheese frosting can elevate your dessert experience. These delightful bars are perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or a sweet treat at home. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enjoy them to the fullest.

Pair with Fresh Fruit

• Berries – Strawberries or blueberries complement the sweetness of the bars.
• Banana Slices – Enhance the banana flavor by adding fresh banana slices on top.

Add a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream – A classic choice that balances the richness of the frosting.
• Chocolate Ice Cream – For those who love chocolate, this pairing makes for a decadent treat.

Serve with Coffee or Tea

• Brewed Coffee – The bitterness of coffee pairs well with the sweetness of the bars.
• Herbal Tea – A light tea can offer a refreshing contrast to the creamy frosting.

Create a Dessert Platter

• Mini Desserts – Include other small treats like cookies or brownies for variety.
• Cheese and Crackers – Add some savory elements to balance out the sweetness.

How to Perfect Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

To ensure your banana bars with cream cheese frosting turn out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Ripe Bananas – The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bars will be.
• Don’t Overmix – Mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to dense bars.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Eggs and butter should be at room temperature for better incorporation.
• Check Oven Temperature – An accurate oven temperature ensures even baking; use an oven thermometer if needed.
• Cool Completely Before Frosting – Allow the bars to cool completely before adding frosting to prevent it from melting.
• Experiment with Toppings – Try adding nuts or chocolate chips for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Banana bars with cream cheese frosting are delightful on their own but can shine even brighter when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options that will enhance your dessert spread.

1. Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits that adds brightness to your dessert plate.
2. Yogurt Parfait – Layered yogurt with granola and fruit provides a creamy and crunchy contrast.
3. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries – These sweet treats add a touch of elegance and indulgence.
4. Caramel Drizzle Cake – A rich cake topped with caramel sauce complements the flavors of banana bars perfectly.
5. Pecan Pie Bites – Miniature pecan pies offer a nutty crunch that contrasts nicely with soft banana bars.
6. Chilled Citrus Salad – A zesty citrus salad brightens up your dessert table and balances sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to help you achieve the best results.

• Using unripe bananas: Ripe bananas are essential for flavor and moisture. Choose bananas that have brown spots, as they are sweeter and mash easily.

• Not measuring ingredients correctly: Precision is vital in baking. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure you get the correct amounts of flour and sugar.

• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to tough bars. Mix until just combined for the best texture; a few lumps are okay.

• Skipping the cream cheese frosting step: The frosting is what makes these bars special! Don’t skip it or substitute it with something else—stick to the recipe for maximum flavor.

• Not cooling completely before frosting: If you frost warm bars, the frosting will melt and slide off. Allow your banana bars to cool completely before applying the cream cheese frosting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store banana bars in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 4 days in the fridge.
• Make sure the bars are completely cooled before storing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place bars on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual servings on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a pan over low heat, covering with a lid, for about 5-7 minutes until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare your banana bars a day in advance. Just store them properly to keep them fresh!

What can I substitute for cream cheese in the frosting?

For a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese as alternatives in your cream cheese frosting.

How do I know when my banana bars are done?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the bars; if it comes out clean, they are ready!

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

Absolutely! Feel free to add walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

These Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding different mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips. Perfect for any occasion, they’re sure to become a favorite in your household! Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delightful treat that’s sure to impress family and friends.