Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Soft yummy banana bars topped with cream cheese frosting! These delightful Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to casual get-togethers. Their moist texture and rich flavor make them a standout dessert that will impress everyone. Whether you enjoy them as a snack or serve them at a party, these bars are sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute desserts.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of ripe bananas and creamy frosting creates a mouthwatering treat.
• Versatile Enjoyment: Perfect for any occasion, these bars are great for potlucks, picnics, or an afternoon snack.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With 20 servings, they are ideal for sharing with friends and family.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with everyday pantry staples, you likely have everything needed on hand.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best banana bars with cream cheese frosting, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool makes creaming butter and sugar effortless, ensuring a light texture.
• Baking pan: The size of the pan is crucial for even baking; the specified dimensions allow for perfect bar thickness.
• Rubber spatula: Ideal for scraping down sides of bowls to combine all ingredients thoroughly.

Ingredients

Soft yummy banana bars topped with cream cheese frosting! A trusted family favorite!

For the 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 and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

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

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the creamed butter mixture while mixing until just combined.

Step 4: Bake the Bars

Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow cooling completely in the pan.

Step 5: Make the Frosting

For the frosting, cream together softened butter and cream cheese in a mixing bowl until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract while mixing well. If you prefer a thicker frosting, add more powdered sugar as needed.

Step 6: Frost the Bars

Once cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting over the banana bars evenly. Cut into squares and enjoy your delicious banana bars with cream cheese frosting!

How to Serve Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Banana bars with cream cheese frosting are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, these bars can be served in different styles to please your guests.

Casual Snack

• Serve the banana bars as a simple snack during the day. Their soft texture and sweet flavor make them perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up.

Dessert Party Platter

• Arrange the banana bars on a large platter for a dessert party. Pair them with other sweet treats like cookies and brownies for a colorful display.

Breakfast Treat

• Enjoy banana bars as part of your breakfast spread. They pair wonderfully with coffee or tea, making them an excellent choice for brunch gatherings.

Kid-Friendly Lunchbox Item

• Slice the bars into smaller pieces and pack them into lunchboxes. Kids will love their sweet taste, and they are easy to transport.

Topped with Fresh Fruit

• Add slices of fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries on top of the cream cheese frosting for an extra burst of flavor and color.

With Whipped Cream

• Serve each bar with a dollop of whipped cream on the side. This adds a light and airy touch that complements the richness of the frosting.

How to Perfect Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Making banana bars with cream cheese frosting is easy, but there are ways to enhance their flavor and texture. Here are some tips to help you achieve perfection.

• Use Ripe Bananas: The riper your bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bars will be. Look for bananas with brown spots for optimal sweetness.
• Don’t Overmix: Once you combine wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense bars instead of light and fluffy ones.
• Adjust Baking Time: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your bars while baking. A toothpick inserted should come out clean when they’re done.
• Chill Your Frosting: If your cream cheese frosting is too soft, refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes before spreading it on the bars. This will help it hold its shape better.
• Experiment with Toppings: Try adding nuts or chocolate chips into the batter for added texture and flavor variations that can elevate your banana bars.
• Store Properly: Keep leftover banana bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay fresh longer this way and maintain their delicious taste.

Best Side Dishes for Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Banana bars with cream cheese frosting are versatile enough to serve alongside various side dishes. Here are some fantastic options that complement their sweetness perfectly.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the banana bars.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy side that contrasts beautifully with the dense banana texture.
3. Coffee or Tea: A warm cup enhances the flavors of the banana bars while providing comfort during any gathering.
4. Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream pairs deliciously with warm banana bars straight from the oven.
5. Nutty Trail Mix: Offer a crunchy trail mix as a counterpoint to the soft texture of the banana bars.
6. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses that can balance out sweet flavors; try pairing it with sharp cheddar or creamy brie.
7. Savory Muffins: Serve mini savory muffins alongside to create a balanced spread between sweet and savory flavors.
8. Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: These salty treats dipped in chocolate provide a fun contrast to dessert-like banana bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making banana bars with cream cheese frosting can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can ruin your dessert. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Using Overripe Bananas: While ripe bananas are ideal, overly brown bananas may lead to an overly mushy texture. Aim for bananas that are yellow with a few brown spots.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Baking is a science. Using too much flour or sugar can affect the consistency of your banana bars. Use proper measuring cups and tools for accuracy.
• Skipping the Cooling Time: Frosting warm banana bars can cause the frosting to melt and slide off. Always let your bars cool completely before adding frosting.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Every oven is different. If you don’t know your oven’s quirks, use an oven thermometer to ensure it’s at the right temperature for baking.
• Using Cold Cream Cheese: Cold cream cheese won’t blend well into your frosting, leading to lumps. Always soften it beforehand for a smooth consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container: Keep the banana bars with cream cheese frosting in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• Lasts up to 5 days: They stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 5 days.

Freezing Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Wrap tightly: Use plastic wrap or aluminum foil to wrap individual pieces tightly before freezing.
• Lasts up to 3 months: You can freeze these delicious bars for up to three months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat a single bar on medium power for 15-20 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat.
• Stovetop: For a quick fix, place a bar in a pan over low heat, covering it with a lid. Warm it gently for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use whole wheat flour in banana bars with cream cheese frosting?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour. However, this may alter the texture slightly and make them denser.

How do I make my banana bars more flavorful?

Consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the flavor of your banana bars with cream cheese frosting. Chopped nuts or chocolate chips also work great!

What can I substitute for cream cheese in the frosting?

You can use Greek yogurt or mascarpone as alternatives if you want a lighter option without sacrificing taste.

How do I prevent my banana bars from sticking to the pan?

Make sure to grease your baking pan well before pouring in the batter. Using parchment paper as a liner can also help prevent sticking.

Can I add chocolate chips to my banana bars?

Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips is a delicious way to customize your banana bars with cream cheese frosting and add extra sweetness.

Final Thoughts

Banana bars with cream cheese frosting are a delightful treat that brings comfort and joy! Their soft texture combined with creamy frosting makes them irresistible. Plus, they are versatile; feel free to customize them by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or spices like cinnamon. Don’t hesitate—try this easy recipe today and enjoy these sweet delights!