Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Soft yummy banana bars topped with cream cheese frosting are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. These Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are not only easy to make but also bursting with flavor. Ideal for potlucks, family gatherings, or simply as an everyday dessert, they offer a unique twist on traditional banana bread. The rich cream cheese frosting adds a creamy touch that perfectly complements the moist banana bars.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these bars are perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Deliciously Moist – The ripe bananas keep the bars incredibly moist, ensuring every bite is flavorful and satisfying.
• Versatile Dessert – Serve them at parties or enjoy them as an afternoon snack; they fit seamlessly into any setting.
• Family Favorite – This recipe has been trusted by families for years, making it a reliable choice for gatherings and celebrations.
• Customizable Frosting – You can adjust the sweetness of the cream cheese frosting to suit your taste, making it truly your own.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools for smooth sailing in the kitchen. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating these delicious banana bars.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer – Ideal for creaming butter and sugar quickly and efficiently, ensuring a fluffy texture in your batter.
• Baking pan – A proper size ensures even baking; using the right dimensions helps achieve the perfect bar thickness.
• Rubber spatula – Great for scraping down sides and folding ingredients without deflating your mixture.

Ingredients

To create these delightful banana bars topped with cream cheese frosting, you’ll need the following ingredients:

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 and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

In a stand mixer:
* Cream together ½ cup of softened butter and 2 cups of granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
* Beat in the 3 large eggs, 3 medium ripe bananas, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl:
* Combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and a pinch of salt.
* Gradually add this mixture to the creamed butter mixture and mix well until fully combined.

Step 4: Bake the Bars

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

Step 5: Make the Frosting

For the frosting:
* In a mixing bowl, cream together ¼ cup of softened butter and 4 ounces of softened cream cheese until smooth.
* Gradually add in 2 ¼ cups of powdered sugar along with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Beat well until creamy. If you desire a thicker consistency, add more powdered sugar as needed.

Step 6: Frost Your Bars

Spread the cream cheese frosting over the cooled banana bars using a rubber spatula. Cut into squares and serve!

Enjoy these Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting at your next gathering or as an everyday treat!

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 serving them at a party, as an afternoon snack, or for dessert, these bars are sure to please everyone.

For a Casual Snack

• Serve warm: Enjoy the banana bars fresh out of the oven for a cozy treat.
• Pair with coffee: The flavors of banana and cream cheese complement a nice cup of coffee or tea perfectly.

At a Celebration

• Birthday parties: These bars make a great dessert option for birthdays; cut them into fun shapes!
• Potluck contributions: Easy to transport and serve, banana bars are always a hit at gatherings.

With Ice Cream

• Add a scoop: Top your banana bars with vanilla or caramel ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• Make it à la mode: Drizzle with chocolate sauce for extra sweetness and presentation.

How to Perfect Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Making delicious banana bars is simple, but there are ways to elevate your baking game. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Use ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bars will be.
• Measure accurately: Ensure all ingredients are measured carefully for consistent results.
• Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the texture light and fluffy.
• Cool completely before frosting: This prevents the frosting from melting and helps maintain its shape.
• Experiment with add-ins: Consider adding nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Banana bars pair well with several side dishes that enhance their flavor while providing balance. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and brightness to your dessert spread.
2. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy contrast that complements the sweet bars.
3. Nut Mix – A combination of almonds, walnuts, or pecans provides crunch and nutty flavors alongside the soft bars.
4. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries – These sweet treats add elegance and a burst of flavor to your dessert table.
5. Cheese Platter – A selection of mild cheeses pairs well with sweet desserts, creating an appealing contrast.
6. Vanilla Ice Cream – This classic pairing enhances the richness of banana bars while keeping things cool and refreshing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking banana bars with cream cheese frosting can be simple, but there are common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.

• Bold ingredient measurements: Not measuring ingredients accurately can lead to poor texture and flavor. Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
• Bold mixing too much: Overmixing the batter can make the bars tough. Mix until just combined for soft and moist bars.
• Bold skipping the cooling step: Cutting into warm banana bars can result in a messy presentation. Allow them to cool completely before frosting.
• Bold using cold ingredients: Starting with cold butter or eggs can affect how well they incorporate. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
• Bold neglecting storage tips: Storing banana bars improperly can lead to dryness. Follow storage instructions carefully to keep them fresh.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing.

Freezing Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They will keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Bold Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the bars for about 10-15 minutes.
• Bold Microwave: Heat one bar at a time for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Bold Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat, covering to retain moisture, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about banana bars with cream cheese frosting.

Can I use other fruits in my Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting?

Yes! You can add chopped nuts or other mashed fruits like apples or pears for added flavor.

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.

What’s the best way to store leftover Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for optimal freshness.

Can I make these Banana Bars gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.

Final Thoughts

These banana bars with cream cheese frosting are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even different frostings. Perfect for any gathering, they’re sure to be a hit!