Banana Cream Cheese Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Banana Cream Cheese Bars are a perfect combination of flavors and textures. The bananas add a natural sweetness and moisture, while the cream cheese filling brings a rich, tangy flavor that perfectly balances the sweetness of the bananas. The bars have a soft, almost fudgy texture, making them a comfort dessert that’s easy to make and even easier to eat. Plus, they’re a great way to use up ripe bananas, turning them into a decadent, crowd-pleasing treat that’s both indulgent and satisfying.

Ingredients

• For the Banana Base:

  • 2 ripe bananas, mashed

  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened

  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar

  • 2 large eggs

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 1 1/2 cups (180g) all-purpose flour

  • 1 teaspoon baking powder

  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

• For the Cream Cheese Filling:

  • 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened

  • 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 1 large egg

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven and prepare the pan:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Make the Banana Base:

   • In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

   • Beat in the mashed bananas, eggs, and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, mixing until just combined.

   • Pour the banana batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.

3. Make the Cream Cheese Filling:

   • In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.

   • Add the egg and vanilla extract and continue beating until fully combined.

   • Pour the cream cheese mixture over the banana batter, spreading it evenly on top.

4. Bake the Bars:

   • Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean (with a few moist crumbs).

   • Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.

5. Serve:

   • Once the bars have cooled, cut them into squares and serve. Optionally, you can refrigerate the bars for an hour before cutting for cleaner slices.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 9-12 bars

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 30–35 minutes

• Total time: 45–50 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate Chips: Add a handful of chocolate chips to the banana batter for a chocolate-banana twist.

• Nutty Touch: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans to the banana mixture for added crunch and flavor.

• Frosting: Top with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a cream cheese frosting if you want a sweeter finish.

• Banana Bread Version: Use this recipe as a base for banana bread by omitting the cream cheese layer for a simple banana-flavored cake.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

• Freezing: You can freeze the bars for up to 2 months. Wrap them individually or in a single layer with plastic wrap and foil, then place in an airtight container.

• Reheating: To reheat, warm individual servings in the microwave for 15-20 seconds.

FAQs

Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen bananas, just make sure to thaw and mash them before using in the recipe.

Can I use a different kind of sugar?

You can substitute granulated sugar with brown sugar for a slightly richer, molasses-like flavor, or even use coconut sugar for a more natural sweetener.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe and bake it in a 9×13-inch pan, adjusting the baking time slightly (check with a toothpick after 40 minutes).

Can I make this recipe vegan?

To make these bars vegan, you can substitute the eggs with a flax egg or chia egg, and use vegan butter and a non-dairy cream cheese alternative.

Can I add more banana flavor to the bars?

If you want a stronger banana flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of banana extract along with the vanilla.

Can I use a different type of cheese for the filling?

While cream cheese gives the best texture and flavor for this recipe, you can try mascarpone or ricotta cheese as an alternative, though the texture will be different.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, these bars store well in the refrigerator for up to a week, so you can make them a day or two in advance.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure the blend you use includes a binding agent like xanthan gum.

How do I know when the bars are done?

The bars are done when the top is golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs but not raw batter.

Can I freeze the cream cheese bars?

Yes, the bars freeze well. After they’ve cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place in an airtight container for freezing.

Conclusion

Banana Cream Cheese Bars are a deliciously indulgent dessert that combines the comfort of banana bread with the creamy richness of a cheesecake-like filling. The result is a moist, flavorful bar that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to use up ripe bananas or simply enjoy a new dessert, these bars are sure to become a favorite. Easy to make, sweet, and satisfying, Banana Cream Cheese Bars are a must-try treat!

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