We’ve discovered the perfect way to transform overripe bananas into something absolutely irresistible. These banana bars with cream cheese frosting combine the beloved flavors of banana bread with the indulgent appeal of a frosted dessert bar. They’re incredibly moist, packed with banana flavor, and topped with a tangy-sweet cream cheese frosting that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
What makes these bars truly special is their versatility and ease. Unlike traditional banana bread that requires careful slicing and serving, these bars come pre-portioned and ready to grab. They’re perfect for potlucks, bake sales, or when you want to treat your family to something extraordinary without spending hours in the kitchen.
The combination of warm spices, ripe bananas, and that signature cream cheese topping creates a dessert that’s both comforting and sophisticated. We guarantee these bars will become your new go-to recipe for using up those spotted bananas sitting on your counter.
Ingredients
We’ve organized our ingredients into two simple categories to make preparation effortless. These pantry staples come together to create the perfect balance of banana flavor and creamy sweetness.
For the Banana Bars
- 3 large ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 cup)
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream (as needed for consistency)
- Pinch of salt
Equipment Needed
Creating perfect banana bars with cream cheese frosting requires the right tools to ensure even baking and smooth frosting application. We recommend gathering these essential pieces of equipment before starting your baking process.
Jelly Roll Pan serves as our primary baking vessel for this recipe. A 10×15 inch pan delivers the ideal cake to frosting ratio that makes these bars exceptional. This exact size ensures the batter spreads evenly and bakes uniformly throughout.
Electric Mixer becomes indispensable for creating the perfect texture in both our banana bars and cream cheese frosting. We use this tool to cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. The mixer also helps us beat eggs and mashed bananas into a smooth consistency.
Whisk allows us to combine dry ingredients thoroughly without overmixing. This simple tool ensures our flour, baking soda, salt, and spices distribute evenly throughout the mixture.
Measuring Cups and Spoons guarantee accurate ingredient proportions for consistent results every time. Precision in measuring creates the perfect balance between moisture and structure in our bars.
Large Mixing Bowls provide adequate space for combining ingredients without spillage. We recommend having at least two bowls available for separating wet and dry ingredients during preparation.
Rubber Spatula helps us fold ingredients together gently and scrape down bowl sides effectively. This tool prevents overmixing while ensuring all ingredients incorporate completely.
Saucepan offers an optional upgrade if you choose to brown the butter for enhanced flavor depth. This technique adds a nutty richness that elevates the overall taste profile of our banana bars.
Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients organized and equipment ready, let’s create these irresistible banana bars with cream cheese frosting. Follow these straightforward steps to achieve perfectly moist bars topped with rich, creamy frosting.
Prep the Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure even baking. Grease a 15x10x1 inch pan thoroughly with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. This preparation step guarantees easy removal and clean presentation of our finished bars.
Make the Banana Bar Batter
Begin by creaming together ½ cup softened butter and 2 cups sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Add 3 eggs one at a time, followed by 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, mixing well after each addition. Incorporate 2 cups mashed very ripe bananas (about 3-4 medium bananas) and mix until combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and ⅛ teaspoon salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until incorporated to avoid overmixing.
Bake the Bars
Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly to ensure uniform baking. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The bars should spring back lightly when touched and pull slightly away from the pan edges.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
Start by melting ½ cup butter in a saucepan over medium heat until it turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma. Beat the browned butter with 8 ounces softened cream cheese until the mixture becomes completely smooth.
Stir in 2 teaspoons vanilla extract and a pinch of salt for enhanced flavor. Gradually mix in 4 cups powdered sugar, beating until the frosting reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency.
Assemble and Frost
Allow the baked bars to cool completely in the pan before frosting to prevent melting. Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled bars using an offset spatula or knife. Cut into uniform squares or rectangles and serve immediately, or refrigerate for firmer frosting before serving.
Storage Instructions
Proper storage keeps our banana bars fresh and delicious for days or even months. We recommend following exact guidelines based on whether the bars are frosted or unfrosted.
Room Temperature Storage
Unfrosted banana bars store beautifully at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 5 days. We always ensure the container seals tightly to maintain moisture and prevent the bars from drying out. But, once we add cream cheese frosting, the storage requirements change completely due to dairy content.
Refrigerated Storage
Frosted banana bars require refrigeration to maintain food safety and quality. We store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator where they stay fresh for 4 to 7 days. Most sources recommend at least 4 days in the fridge, though we find they maintain optimal freshness for up to 1 week when properly covered.
| Storage Method | Duration | Container Type |
|---|---|---|
| Unfrosted (Room Temperature) | Up to 5 days | Airtight container |
| Frosted (Refrigerated) | 4-7 days | Airtight container |
| Frozen (Frosted or Unfrosted) | 1-3 months | Wrapped tightly |
Temporary Room Temperature Guidelines
We can leave frosted bars at room temperature for up to 2 hours before refrigeration becomes necessary. This timeframe allows for serving and enjoying without compromising food safety.
Freezing Instructions
Banana bars freeze exceptionally well whether frosted or unfrosted. We cool the bars completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap, tin foil, or placing them in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. For frosted bars, we recommend an initial freeze of 1 to 2 hours before wrapping to firm up the frosting and prevent damage during storage.
Frozen banana bars maintain quality for 1 to 3 months, with most recipes recommending up to 2 or 3 months for best results. We always label containers with dates to track storage time.
Serving After Storage
We thaw frozen bars in the refrigerator before serving for best results. Refrigerated or thawed bars taste optimal when brought to room temperature, though many people enjoy them cold as well. The key is maintaining tight coverage throughout storage to preserve moisture and prevent absorption of refrigerator odors.
Make-Ahead Tips
Planning ahead makes serving these delicious banana bars much easier for busy schedules or special occasions. We recommend preparing the bars in stages to maximize freshness while saving time on the day you plan to serve them.
Complete Cooling is Essential
Allow the banana bars to cool completely before adding any frosting. This critical step prevents the cream cheese frosting from melting and sliding off the bars. We typically let our bars rest for at least 2 hours at room temperature before frosting.
Room Temperature Storage Strategy
Store covered banana bars at room temperature for up to three days when properly wrapped. Place the frosted bars in an airtight container or cover tightly with plastic wrap to maintain moisture and prevent the frosting from drying out.
Freezer Storage Options
Freeze unfrosted bars for up to two months when wrapped individually in plastic wrap and stored in freezer bags. We find this method particularly useful since you can thaw only the portion you need and add fresh frosting when ready to serve.
Strategic Frosting Timeline
Thaw frozen bars completely in the refrigerator overnight before frosting. Apply the cream cheese frosting just before serving for the best texture and appearance. This approach ensures the frosting maintains its creamy consistency and attractive finish.
Batch Preparation Benefits
Double the recipe and freeze half the batch unfrosted for future entertaining needs. Label each wrapped portion with the date and contents to keep track of storage time and maintain optimal quality.
Serving Suggestions
We recommend serving these banana bars at room temperature for the best flavor and texture experience. The cream cheese frosting becomes perfectly creamy when allowed to warm slightly from refrigerated storage.
Cutting the bars into uniform squares or rectangles creates an attractive presentation for any gathering. We suggest using a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts to maintain neat edges and prevent frosting from smudging.
These banana bars shine as a delightful dessert for casual family dinners or potluck gatherings. Their portability makes them ideal for picnics, office parties, and bake sales where individual servings are preferred over slice-and-serve desserts.
For special occasions, we like to garnish each bar with a sprinkle of chopped pecans or a light dusting of cinnamon. Fresh banana slices arranged on top add visual appeal, though they should be added just before serving to prevent browning.
Coffee and tea pair beautifully with these bars, making them perfect for afternoon gatherings or morning brunches. The sweet cream cheese frosting complements the robust flavors of dark roast coffee particularly well.
When entertaining, we arrange the bars on a large platter lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Individual paper liners or small dessert plates help guests enjoy the bars without mess, especially important when the frosting is soft.
Room temperature storage works well for bars that will be consumed within three days, keeping them covered to maintain moisture. We find that these bars actually improve in flavor after the first day as the banana and spice flavors meld together beautifully.
Recipe Variations
We love how versatile banana bars can be with simple ingredient adjustments. The banana quantity significantly impacts both moisture level and banana flavor intensity in our bars. Most recipes work well with 2 to 4 medium bananas (approximately ½ to 2 cups mashed) depending on your preference for banana taste.
Our flour and leavening adjustments create different textures in the finished bars. Some variations reduce flour and baking soda quantities for lighter bars while others incorporate ground cinnamon for enhanced spice flavor. We find that adding ¼ teaspoon of cinnamon complements the banana flavor beautifully without overwhelming the other ingredients.
Moisture enhancements work wonderfully in banana bars through strategic additions. A small amount of milk (2-3 tablespoons) increases the bars’ tenderness while a splash of fresh lemon juice balances the overall sweetness. These liquid additions create a more tender crumb structure in our finished bars.
Frosting variations offer exciting flavor possibilities beyond the classic version. Browned butter creates a nutty depth that pairs exceptionally well with bananas when substituted for regular softened butter in the frosting. We can keep the frosting simple with traditional softened butter and cream cheese or experiment with different extract flavors like almond or maple.
Add-ins transform basic banana bars into customized treats. Chopped pecans provide delightful texture contrast and complement the banana flavor profile. Walnuts work equally well for those who prefer their nutty flavor. Mini chocolate chips create an indulgent variation that appeals to chocolate lovers.
Baking pan choices affect both cooking time and serving portions. Our bars work perfectly in a 15x10x1 inch jelly roll pan for thinner bars that serve more people. A 9×13 inch pan creates thicker bars with adjusted baking times of 28-32 minutes instead of the standard 25 minutes.
| Pan Size | Baking Time | Serving Size |
|---|---|---|
| 15x10x1 inch | 20-25 minutes | 24-30 bars |
| 9×13 inch | 28-32 minutes | 16-20 bars |
| 11×15 inch | 22-27 minutes | 20-24 bars |
Powdered sugar quantities in frosting vary based on desired sweetness and consistency preferences. We typically use 2 to 3 cups of powdered sugar but adjust according to taste preferences and desired spreading consistency. More powdered sugar creates a stiffer frosting while less creates a softer spreadable texture.
Storage preferences influence serving temperature choices. Room temperature storage keeps bars soft and easy to cut for up to three days when covered properly. Some people prefer serving the bars chilled from refrigeration for a firmer texture that holds its shape better during serving.
Conclusion
These banana bars with cream cheese frosting offer the perfect solution for transforming overripe bananas into an irresistible dessert that’s easier to serve than traditional banana bread. We’ve shown you how simple pantry ingredients can create a treat that’s both comforting and elegant enough for any gathering.
The versatility of this recipe means you can customize it to your family’s preferences while still achieving consistently delicious results. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week ahead or preparing for unexpected guests these bars deliver every time.
We’re confident that once you try this recipe it’ll become your go-to method for using up those spotted bananas sitting on your counter. The combination of moist banana flavor and creamy frosting creates a dessert that actually improves with time making it perfect for busy schedules and entertaining alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes these banana bars different from regular banana bread?
These banana bars combine the familiar flavors of banana bread with a cream cheese frosting, creating a dessert-like treat that’s easier to serve and perfect for gatherings. The bars bake in a jelly roll pan, making them ideal for feeding crowds and offering convenient portion control.
How ripe should the bananas be for this recipe?
Use 3 large overripe bananas with brown spots for the best flavor and natural sweetness. Overripe bananas are easier to mash and provide more intense banana flavor, making them perfect for transforming into this delicious dessert.
Can I make these banana bars ahead of time?
Yes! Unfrosted bars can be made up to 2 days ahead and stored at room temperature. You can also freeze unfrosted bars for up to 2 months. Apply the cream cheese frosting just before serving for the best texture and appearance.
How should I store frosted banana bars?
Frosted banana bars must be refrigerated and will stay fresh for 4-7 days. Store them in an airtight container to prevent the cream cheese frosting from drying out. Let them come to room temperature before serving for optimal flavor.
What pan size is best for banana bars?
A 10×15 inch jelly roll pan is recommended for even baking and the perfect bar thickness. This size ensures the bars cook evenly in about 25 minutes and provides the ideal ratio of cake to frosting in each serving.
Can I freeze banana bars with frosting?
Yes, both frosted and unfrosted bars can be frozen for 1-3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then label with the date. Thaw frozen bars in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
What’s the secret to perfect cream cheese frosting?
Use softened cream cheese and butter at room temperature, and consider browning the butter for extra flavor depth. Beat until smooth and add milk or cream gradually to achieve the perfect spreading consistency without overmixing.
How do I know when the banana bars are done baking?
Bake at 350°F for 25 minutes, then test with a toothpick inserted in the center. The bars are done when the toothpick comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.
