Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Soft yummy banana bars topped with cream cheese frosting make a delightful treat for any occasion! These Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or a simple dessert at home, they are sure to impress everyone. Their moist texture and sweet, creamy topping create a delightful combination that your family will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these delicious bars in no time.
• Deliciously Moist: The ripe bananas ensure these bars are soft and moist, making every bite enjoyable.
• Versatile Serving Options: Great for any occasion—serve them as a dessert, snack, or even breakfast!
• Cream Cheese Frosting: The creamy frosting adds a rich flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness of the bananas.
• Family Favorite: This recipe has been trusted by families for generations, making it a classic dessert choice.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on your delicious banana bars, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make 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
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar together smoothly.
• Baking pan: A good quality baking pan ensures even baking and helps achieve the perfect texture for your banana bars.

Ingredients

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 a 15 x 10 x 1 inch baking pan with non-stick spray. Set it aside while you prepare the batter.

Step 2: Make the Batter

In a stand mixer:
1. Cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Beat in the eggs one at a time.
3. Add the mashed ripe bananas and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl:
1. Combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and a pinch of salt.
2. Gradually add this dry mixture to the creamed butter mixture, mixing well until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Bake the Bars

Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan:
1. Spread it evenly across the bottom.
2. Bake in your preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted in the center.
3. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.

Step 5: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting

While cooling:
1. In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and cream cheese until smooth.
2. Gradually add in powdered sugar and vanilla extract while beating well until desired consistency is achieved.

Step 6: Frost Your Bars

Once cooled:
1. Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over your banana bars using a spatula.
2. Slice into squares or rectangles to serve.

Enjoy these delightful Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting at your next gathering or as a sweet treat just for yourself!

How to Serve Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving banana bars with cream cheese frosting can elevate any gathering or family dessert night. These delightful treats are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways.

Simple Serving Ideas

• Coffee Pairing: Serve warm bars alongside a cup of coffee for a comforting treat.
• Ice Cream Scoop: Top with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• Fresh Fruit: Add sliced strawberries or blueberries on the side for a fruity contrast.
• Whipped Cream: Drizzle with whipped cream for added richness and texture.

Creative Presentation

• Dessert Platter: Arrange sliced banana bars on a decorative platter, garnishing with mint leaves.
• Individual Servings: Cut into bite-sized pieces and serve in mini cupcake liners for easy grab-and-go portions.

How to Perfect Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Perfecting banana bars with cream cheese frosting is easy with a few simple tips. Follow these guidelines to enhance your baking experience.

• Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bars will be.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the bars soft and moist.
• Check Doneness Early: Start checking the bars at 20 minutes to avoid overbaking.

Best Side Dishes for Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

To complement your banana bars with cream cheese frosting, consider these delightful side dishes. They bring balance and variety to your dessert table.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances sweetness.
2. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy contrast.
3. Nutty Granola: Serve crunchy granola on the side for added texture and flavor.
4. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: These sweet treats provide a rich, chocolatey addition.
5. Coconut Macaroons: Chewy coconut cookies pair well with the softness of banana bars.
6. Chilled Lemonade: Refreshing lemonade cuts through the sweetness while keeping things light.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking banana bars with cream cheese frosting can be a delightful experience, but common pitfalls can detract from your results. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Not using ripe bananas: Overripe bananas add sweetness and moisture to the bars. Use bananas with brown spots for the best flavor.

• Skipping the creaming step: Creaming butter and sugar properly is crucial for texture. Make sure to beat them until fluffy before adding other ingredients.

• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to dense bars. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a lighter texture.

• Ignoring baking times: Oven temperatures can vary. Always check for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time by inserting a toothpick.

• Forgetting to cool completely: Frosting warm bars will cause it to melt. Ensure your banana bars are fully cooled before adding the cream cheese frosting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store banana bars in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They 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 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual bars on medium power for 20-30 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about banana bars with cream cheese frosting that you may find helpful.

Can I use frozen bananas for Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting?

Yes, thawed frozen bananas work well in this recipe. Just mash them thoroughly before mixing.

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 crumbs, they are ready!

Can I make these Banana Bars without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana.

What can I use instead of cream cheese frosting?

You could try whipped coconut cream or a simple sugar glaze if you prefer a lighter topping.

Final Thoughts

These banana bars with cream cheese frosting are not only soft and delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even spices like cinnamon. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delightful treat that is perfect for any occasion!