Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Soft, yummy Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful treat that everyone loves! Perfect for parties, potlucks, or simply as a sweet snack at home, these bars stand out with their moist texture and rich frosting. The combination of ripe bananas and creamy frosting creates an irresistible dessert that will have you coming back for more. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to indulge, these banana bars are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll whip up these banana bars without any fuss.
• Delicious Flavor: The sweetness of ripe bananas combined with velvety cream cheese frosting makes for an unforgettable treat.
• Versatile Dessert: Serve them at birthday parties, family gatherings, or even as a midday snack – they fit any occasion perfectly!
• Family Favorite: These banana bars have been tried and tested by families everywhere and are sure to become a staple in your home.
• Great for Leftovers: If you manage to have any left, they store well in the fridge for several days, maintaining their deliciousness.

Tools and Preparation

To ensure the best results when making your banana bars, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here are the main items you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugar effortless, ensuring a light and fluffy batter.
• Baking pan: The size is crucial for even baking; this specific dimension helps achieve perfect texture.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining dry ingredients separately before adding them to the wet mixture.

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. Set it aside while you prepare your batter.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a stand mixer, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Next, beat in the large eggs one at a time. Add in the mashed ripe bananas and vanilla extract, continuing to mix until everything is well combined.

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 into the creamed butter mixture. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix.

Step 4: Pour Batter into Baking Pan

Pour the prepared batter into your greased baking pan. Use a rubber spatula to spread it evenly across the bottom.

Step 5: Bake

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 it to cool completely in the pan.

Step 6: Make Frosting

While your bars cool, make the frosting by creaming together softened butter and cream cheese in a mixing bowl. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract while beating until smooth. If you prefer thicker frosting, add more confectioners’ sugar.

Step 7: Frost Your Bars

Once cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over your banana bars. Cut into squares or rectangles and serve!

How to Serve Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving banana bars with cream cheese frosting can enhance their appeal and flavor. These delicious treats can be enjoyed in various ways, making them perfect for any occasion.

For a Simple Dessert

• Serve warm or at room temperature for a comforting treat that highlights the banana flavor.
• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to add a creamy contrast to the sweet bars.

At a Party or Gathering

• Cut into bite-sized pieces for easy serving. This allows guests to enjoy them without feeling too indulgent.
• Arrange on a platter with fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries for vibrant color and freshness.

As an Afternoon Snack

• Pack individual slices in lunch boxes for a sweet midday boost.
• Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea, making for an ideal afternoon pick-me-up.

For Special Occasions

• Decorate with additional sprinkles or nuts on top of the cream cheese frosting for festive flair.
• Serve alongside other desserts like brownies or cookies to create a delightful dessert table.

How to Perfect Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

To make the best banana bars with cream cheese frosting, consider these helpful tips:

• Use ripe bananas: The riper your bananas are, the sweeter and more flavorful your bars will be.
• Don’t overmix: Mixing too much can lead to dense bars. Mix just until ingredients are combined.
• Check for doneness: Use a toothpick to test the center; it should come out clean when done.
• Cool completely before frosting: This prevents the frosting from melting off and keeps it beautifully intact.
• Add flavor variations: Incorporate nuts or chocolate chips into the batter for extra texture and taste.

Best Side Dishes for Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Banana bars pair wonderfully with several side dishes, enhancing their deliciousness. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the bars.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for added crunch and creaminess.
3. Coffee Cake Muffins: These add another layer of flavor and texture, creating a delightful brunch spread.
4. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: The richness of chocolate complements the sweetness of banana bars perfectly.
5. Ice Cream Sundae Bar: Set up an ice cream station where guests can top their scoops with banana bar pieces!
6. Nutty Granola: Serve on the side as a crunchy topping option, adding delightful texture to each bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Not using ripe bananas – Ripe bananas add natural sweetness and flavor. Use bananas that are brown and spotty for the best results.
• Overmixing the batter – Overmixing can lead to dense bars. Mix until just combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Skipping the cooling step – Frosting warm bars can cause it to melt. Make sure your banana bars are completely cool before spreading on the cream cheese frosting.
• Using cold ingredients – Cold butter or cream cheese can result in a lumpy frosting. Always soften these ingredients before mixing.
• Not measuring accurately – Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success. Use proper measuring cups and spoons to ensure your ingredients are correct.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Keep Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting in an airtight container.
• item They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• item Ensure they are fully cooled before placing them in the container to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

• item To freeze, cut bars into individual pieces and wrap each piece in plastic wrap.
• item Place wrapped bars in a freezer-safe container or a resealable bag.
• item They will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F, place bars on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat individual pieces on a microwave-safe plate for about 15-20 seconds. Check if they’re warm enough before adding more time.
• Stovetop – Place bars in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes. This method helps retain moisture while reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting different from regular banana bread?

Banana bars are lighter and fluffier than traditional banana bread. They have a cake-like texture and are topped with rich cream cheese frosting, making them more of a dessert treat.

How do I know when my Banana Bars are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the bars; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, they are done. If it has wet batter on it, they need more time.

Can I customize my Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or even spices like cinnamon for added flavor. Customize according to your taste preferences!

How should I store leftover Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them as mentioned above.

Final Thoughts

These Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are not only delicious but also versatile. Perfect for gatherings or as an everyday treat, they can easily be customized with your favorite add-ins or toppings. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!