
Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
Introduction
Bananas are a baker’s best friend, and these Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting prove exactly why. Moist, soft, and packed with rich banana flavor, these bars are the ultimate way to transform overripe bananas into something special. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, they strike the perfect balance between comfort food and indulgence. Whether you make them for family gatherings, school events, or just an afternoon treat, these bars are guaranteed to delight both kids and adults.
Ingredients
For the Banana Bars:
-
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
-
1 cup granulated sugar
-
2 large eggs
-
1 cup sour cream (or plain yogurt)
-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
-
2 cups all-purpose flour
-
1 teaspoon baking soda
-
½ teaspoon salt
-
2–3 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 cup)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
-
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
-
1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
-
3 ½ cups powdered sugar
-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10×15-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2 – Make the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the sour cream and vanilla extract until smooth.
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
Gently fold in the mashed bananas until evenly incorporated.
Step 3 – Bake the Bars
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely before frosting.
Step 4 – Make the Frosting
In a medium bowl, beat together the butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until light and fluffy. Stir in vanilla extract.
Step 5 – Frost and Serve
Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled bars. Slice into squares or rectangles and serve.
Conclusion
These Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are the perfect marriage of a tender, cake-like base and a rich, creamy topping. They’re easy to prepare, feed a crowd, and stay moist for days when stored in an airtight container. Ideal for potlucks, celebrations, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth at home, this recipe is bound to become a favorite. Enjoy them chilled for a firmer texture or at room temperature for a melt-in-your-mouth experience.