Soft yummy banana bars topped with cream cheese frosting are a delightful treat that can brighten up any occasion. These Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are perfect for potlucks, birthday parties, or just a cozy family dessert night. Their moist texture and sweet flavor make them irresistible, while the creamy frosting adds a delightful finish that takes these bars to the next level. Whether you’re using ripe bananas from your kitchen or looking for an easy recipe to impress guests, these bars are sure to please everyone!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Preparation: This recipe is quick and easy, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of bananas and cream cheese frosting creates a rich and satisfying taste.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual get-together or a special celebration, these banana bars fit right in.
- Great for Ripe Bananas: Turn those overripe bananas into something delicious instead of tossing them away.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as a dessert, snack, or even breakfast treat!
Tools and Preparation
Before you get started with your banana bars, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer
- Baking pan (15 x 10 x 1 inch)
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: Eases the mixing process, ensuring ingredients blend well without much effort.
- Baking pan: The right size is crucial for even baking; this one allows the bars to cook perfectly.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the recipe turns out as intended every time.
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 large eggs
- 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 your 15 x 10 x 1 inch baking pan with non-stick spray and set it aside.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a stand mixer, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Then add in the eggs one at a time, followed by the mashed ripe bananas and vanilla extract.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to your creamed mixture in the stand mixer. Mix until just combined.
Step 4: Bake the Bars
Pour your batter into the prepared baking pan. Bake in your preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow them to cool completely in the pan.
Step 5: Prepare Cream Cheese 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 continuing to beat until well combined. If you desire a thicker consistency, add more powdered sugar.
Step 6: Frost & Serve
Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled banana bars. Cut into squares and serve! 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 party or simply indulging at home, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.
For a Sweet Breakfast
- Pair with coffee: Enjoy banana bars alongside your morning coffee for a sweet start to the day.
- Serve with yogurt: A dollop of plain or flavored yogurt can balance the sweetness, making it a hearty breakfast option.
As an Afternoon Snack
- Add fresh fruit: Serve sliced bananas or berries on the side for added freshness and flavor.
- Enjoy with tea: These bars make a lovely accompaniment to any afternoon tea.
At Parties and Gatherings
- Cut into small squares: Offer bite-sized pieces for easy sharing during events.
- Pair with ice cream: Serve warm bars topped with vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert.
How to Perfect Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
Perfecting your banana bars is key to achieving that soft, moist texture and delectable frosting. Here are some tips to enhance your baking experience.
- Use ripe bananas: The riper your bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bars will be.
- Cream ingredients thoroughly: Ensure butter and sugar are well-creamed for a light texture; this helps create a fluffy bar.
- Measure flour accurately: Too much flour can lead to dense bars. Use the spoon-and-level method for precise measurement.
- Don’t overmix: Mix until just combined after adding dry ingredients. Overmixing can result in tough bars.
- Cool completely before frosting: Allowing the bars to cool prevents the frosting from melting and ensures nice layers.
- Experiment with spices: Adding cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the flavor profile of your banana bars.
Best Side Dishes for Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
Banana bars with cream cheese frosting pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their rich flavors. Here are some delicious options.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the bars.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy coldness contrasts beautifully with warm banana bars, creating a delightful dessert experience.
- Coffee or Tea: A cup of brewed coffee or herbal tea enhances the flavors and makes for a cozy pairing.
- Nut Mix: A handful of mixed nuts provides crunch and complements the soft texture of the banana bars.
- Cheese Platter: Some mild cheeses can balance out the sweetness and add savory elements to your snack table.
- Savory Muffins: Consider serving savory muffins alongside for an interesting sweet-and-savory contrast.
Enjoy these suggestions as you dive into baking and serving your delicious banana bars!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can ruin your dessert. Here are some tips to ensure your bars turn out perfectly.
- Not using ripe bananas: Using under-ripe bananas will result in a less sweet flavor. Always opt for medium ripe bananas with brown spots for the best taste.
- Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to dense bars. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for lighter, fluffier banana bars.
- Skipping the cooling step: Trying to frost warm bars can cause the frosting to melt. Allow your banana bars to cool completely before adding the cream cheese frosting.
- Incorrect oven temperature: An oven that’s too hot or too cold can affect baking time and texture. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate temperature settings.
- Not measuring flour properly: Too much flour can make your bars dry. Use a spoon to fluff the flour before scooping it into your measuring cup for accuracy.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- item Store banana bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- item They can last up to 5 days while maintaining freshness.
- item Make sure they are completely cooled before storing to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezing Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
- item Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap then place them in a freezer-safe container.
- item They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- item For best results, freeze without frosting and add it after thawing.
Reheating Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, place the bars on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat a single bar on a microwave-safe plate for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place a bar in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting special?
These bars combine the delicious flavors of banana and cream cheese frosting, creating a moist and sweet treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Can I make Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting in advance?
Yes! You can bake and frost the bars ahead of time. Just store them properly in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to serve.
How do I customize Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting?
You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or spices like cinnamon for added flavor and texture. This recipe is versatile!
What should I serve with Banana Bars?
These banana bars pair well with coffee or tea. They also make a great dessert for picnics or potlucks!
Final Thoughts
Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are not only soft and delicious but also incredibly versatile. They are perfect for gatherings or as an everyday treat. Feel free to customize them with your favorite add-ins or toppings! Give this recipe a try; your family will love it!
Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
Indulge in the delightful sweetness of Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting, a heavenly dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. These moist, soft bars are packed with ripe bananas and topped with rich cream cheese frosting, making them a favorite among families and friends alike. Ideal for potlucks, birthday celebrations, or cozy family nights, these banana bars transform overripe bananas into a delicious treat that everyone will love. Their simple preparation makes it easy for bakers of all skill levels to whip up this irresistible dessert. Whether served as breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a sweet ending to dinner, these bars are sure to impress.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 servings 1x
Ingredients
- ½ cup softened butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 3 medium ripe bananas
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Salt (pinch)
- ¼ cup softened butter for frosting
- 4 ounces softened cream cheese
- 2 ¼ cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for frosting
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 15 x 10 x 1 inch baking pan with non-stick spray.
- In a stand mixer, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in mashed bananas and vanilla.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture until just combined.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely in the pan.
- For the frosting, beat together softened butter and cream cheese until smooth; gradually mix in powdered sugar and vanilla until well combined.
- Spread frosting evenly over cooled bars, cut into squares, and serve.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Use very ripe bananas for maximum sweetness. Ensure the butter is adequately creamed with sugar for fluffiness. Let bars cool entirely before frosting to prevent melting.