The aroma of freshly baked banana bars wafting through your kitchen is enough to make anyone weak at the knees. Imagine cutting into a warm, moist banana bar, the cream cheese frosting melting slightly on top, creating a sweet and tangy contrast that dances on your taste buds. These moist banana bars with cream cheese are not just a dessert; they are a celebration of flavor and comfort, perfect for any occasion. For more inspiration, check out this Magic Pecan Cheesecake Bars recipe.
Now, let me take you on a little trip down memory lane. Picture this: it’s a rainy Sunday afternoon, and I’m in my grandmother’s cozy kitchen, surrounded by the comforting scent of ripe bananas waiting to be transformed. She would whip up these delightful treats with such love and flair that even the grumpiest family member couldn’t resist them. Moist banana bars with cream cheese were our go-to for every family gathering or lazy afternoon snack, and now they can be yours too! For more inspiration, check out this Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
These moist banana bars with cream cheese are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy bakers.
- The flavor profile balances sweetness from ripe bananas and creamy tanginess from the frosting.
- Their golden-brown appearance is irresistible, making them an eye-catching dessert for any occasion.
- They are versatile enough to be enjoyed as breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack.
Ingredients for Moist banana bars with cream cheese
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ripe Bananas: Choose bananas with plenty of spots; the riper they are, the sweeter your bars will be.
- All-Purpose Flour: This serves as the base of your bars; fluff it up before measuring for best results.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness while brown sugar gives depth and moisture.
- Baking Powder: Essential for leavening; make sure it’s fresh for fluffy results.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors in your recipe. whole wheat bread recipe.
- Eggs: Eggs bind everything together while keeping the bars moist.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash brings out all those sweet flavors beautifully.
- Cream Cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese for the richest frosting that complements your bars perfectly.
- Powdered Sugar: This sweetens your frosting without adding graininess.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Moist banana bars with cream cheese
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking pan lightly with some cooking spray or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare Your Bananas
In a large mixing bowl, mash about three ripe bananas until smooth. You want them mushy—think baby food but way tastier!
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This helps ensure even distribution when mixing.
Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients
Add eggs and vanilla extract into the mashed bananas. Stir until fully incorporated and then gradually mix in your dry ingredients until just combined—don’t overmix!
Step 5: Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth out the top. Bake in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Step 6: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting
While those beauties cool down a bit, beat together softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Once cooled completely, slather it generously over your banana bars!
Transfer to plates and cut into squares for sharing—or hoarding if you’re feeling selfish! Enjoy these scrumptious moist banana bars with cream cheese at any time of day; they’re bound to brighten up even the gloomiest of days!
You Must Know
- These moist banana bars with cream cheese are not just delightful; they’re a hug in dessert form.
- They’re simple to make and perfect for any occasion, especially when you’re looking to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your kitchen counter.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix your wet ingredients first, then mash those ripe bananas into a creamy goodness before folding in the dry ingredients. While that bakes, whip up your cream cheese frosting for an easy assembly later.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize these banana bars! You can swap out the walnuts for chocolate chips or add a sprinkle of cinnamon for a warm spice kick. Get creative and make it your own!
Storing & Reheating
To store your delicious banana bars, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. Simply reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds if you prefer them warm.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use very ripe bananas; they provide natural sweetness and moisture.
- Avoid overmixing the batter to keep your bars light and fluffy.
- If possible, let the bars cool completely before frosting for a smoother finish.
I once baked these banana bars for a family gathering, and they disappeared faster than I could say “moist banana bars with cream cheese.” My aunt still asks me to make them every holiday—talk about pressure!
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for moist banana bars with cream cheese?
To make moist banana bars with cream cheese, gather ripe bananas, cream cheese, flour, sugar, baking soda, eggs, and vanilla extract. For a richer flavor, you might also consider adding nuts or chocolate chips. banana muffins with chocolate chips Using overripe bananas enhances the flavor and moisture of the bars. Make sure to have all these ingredients ready before you start baking for the best results.
How long should I bake moist banana bars with cream cheese?
Bake your moist banana bars with cream cheese at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 to 30 minutes. The baking time can vary depending on your oven and the size of your pan. You will know they are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. Allow the bars to cool completely before frosting them.
Can I freeze moist banana bars with cream cheese?
Yes, you can freeze moist banana bars with cream cheese! Once cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
How do I store leftover moist banana bars with cream cheese?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want them to last longer, keep them in the refrigerator for about a week. For optimal freshness and taste, consume them within this timeframe. You can also freeze any leftovers if needed.
Conclusion:
In summary, moist banana bars with cream cheese offer a delicious treat that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. By using ripe bananas and simple ingredients, you create a flavorful dessert that everyone will love. Remember to bake until golden brown and allow cooling before frosting. Enjoy these delightful bars as a snack or dessert; they are sure to impress your family and friends!
Moist Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Moist banana bars with cream cheese frosting are a delightful treat that perfectly blend the sweetness of ripe bananas with a creamy, tangy topping. These easy-to-make bars are perfect for dessert, breakfast, or a snack, and their irresistible aroma will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas (about 1 cup mashed)
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking pan.
- In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add eggs and vanilla to the mashed bananas; stir until combined. Gradually mix in dry ingredients until just combined.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- For the frosting, beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth. Once bars are cool, frost generously.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (70g)
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
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