Description
Old Fashioned Frosted Banana Bars offer a nostalgic, comforting treat with moist banana flavor and a creamy, sweet cream cheese frosting. Perfectly soft with a tender crumb and rich frosting, these bars are easy to make and ideal for any occasion, bringing classic home-baked warmth to your table.
Ingredients
Scale
Banana Bars
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk or cream (optional, for spreading consistency)
Instructions
- Prepare the Bananas and Wet Ingredients: Mash the ripe bananas in a large bowl until smooth but slightly chunky. Beat in melted butter. Add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well to combine.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and granulated sugar to ensure even distribution.
- Combine and Pour into Pan: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring gently just until blended. Avoid overmixing to keep the bars tender. Pour the batter into a greased or parchment-lined 9×13 inch baking pan.
- Bake the Bars: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the bars to cool completely before frosting.
- Make the Cream Cheese Frosting: Beat softened cream cheese and softened butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, then add a tablespoon of milk or cream if needed, beating until fluffy and creamy.
- Frost and Serve: Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled banana bars. Cut into squares and enjoy.
Notes
- Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness.
- Do not overmix the batter to maintain a soft, tender texture.
- Cool bars completely before frosting to prevent melting and sliding.
- Use room temperature ingredients for easy blending and smooth texture.
- Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep frosting fresh.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (1/12 of recipe)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg
Keywords: banana bars, frosted banana bars, cream cheese frosting, classic banana dessert, nostalgic baking, easy banana recipe