Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are delightfully moist bars that are topped with a rich and creamy frosting. They’re not heavy or overly sweet either. I think they’re a perfect treat for any time of year, and if you’re not a banana fan, feel free to substitute with another fruit.

It will still be undeniably delicious! If you’re looking for a soft and flavorful dessert that’s not overly sweet, you’ve come to the right place. When you make moist banana bars and pair them with a luscious cream cheese frosting, you get the perfect treat. The addition of ripe bananas just sends it over the top. I’ve really been in the mood for a fruity dessert, and these dreamy bars remind me of cozy family gatherings and special occasions. Not a fan of bananas? Don’t worry, they’re still delicious without them.

Kitchen Equipment Needed:

• Large mixing bowl
• Medium mixing bowl
• Small mixing bowl
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula
• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Oven

Ingredients:

For the Banana Bars:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 1/2 cups mashed ripe bananas (about 3 bananas)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
   • In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
   • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the Eggs and Vanilla:
   • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the sour cream, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
6. Fold in the Bananas:
   • Gently fold in the mashed bananas with a spatula until evenly distributed.
7. Bake the Bars:
   • Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool the Bars:
   • Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
9. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:
   • In a small mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until smooth and well combined.
10. Frost the Bars:
    • Once the bars are completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Cut into bars and serve.

These Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of moist banana bars and rich cream cheese frosting is simply irresistible!