Soft, moist, and bursting with banana flavor, these irresistible banana bars transform overripe bananas into pure dessert magic. We’ve perfected this crowd-pleasing recipe that delivers all the comfort of banana bread in convenient bar form, topped with rich cream cheese frosting that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
These bars strike the perfect balance between cake-like texture and dense banana goodness. The secret lies in using perfectly ripe bananas – those spotted beauties sitting on your counter are exactly what we need for maximum flavor and natural sweetness.
What makes these banana bars truly special is how effortlessly they come together. We’re talking about one bowl, simple pantry ingredients, and a foolproof cream cheese frosting that spreads like a dream. Whether you’re feeding a crowd at a potluck or treating your family to weekend indulgence, these bars deliver bakery-quality results every single time.
Ingredients
These simple pantry staples create the perfect balance of moist banana bars topped with rich cream cheese frosting. We’ve organized the ingredients by component to make preparation seamless.
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
- Pinch of salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
- Pinch of salt
Equipment Needed

Creating these irresistible banana bars requires just a few essential kitchen tools that most home bakers already have on hand. We recommend gathering all your equipment before starting to ensure smooth preparation from mixing to frosting.
A large mixing bowl serves as our primary workspace for creaming butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This step creates the foundation for our perfectly textured bars.
An electric hand mixer makes quick work of combining wet ingredients and ensures thorough incorporation of our mashed bananas. While you can mix by hand, the electric mixer delivers consistent results every time.
For the signature cream cheese frosting, a saucepan becomes invaluable if you choose to brown the butter. This optional step adds a nutty depth of flavor that elevates the frosting from good to extraordinary.
The 10×15 inch jelly roll pan is crucial for achieving the ideal cake-to-frosting ratio. This exact size ensures our bars bake evenly and maintain the perfect thickness that makes each bite satisfying.
Measuring cups and spoons guarantee accuracy in our ingredient proportions. Precise measurements make the difference between good banana bars and exceptional ones that taste bakery perfect.
A whisk helps us combine dry ingredients thoroughly, preventing any lumps of flour or baking soda from creating uneven texture in our finished bars.
Finally, utensils for spreading such as an offset spatula or rubber spatula ensure even distribution of both batter and frosting. These tools help create the smooth, professional appearance that makes our banana bars as beautiful as they are delicious.
Instructions

Now that we have our ingredients measured and equipment ready, let’s walk through each step to create these irresistible banana bars with cream cheese frosting.
Prep the Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F to ensure even baking temperature. Grease our 15x10x1-inch pan thoroughly with butter or cooking spray to prevent the bars from sticking. This preparation step ensures easy removal and clean cuts when serving.
Make the Banana Bar Batter
Cream ½ cup softened butter with 1 to 2 cups granulated sugar in a large bowl using your electric mixer until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Beat in 2 to 3 large eggs one at a time, followed by 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for enhanced flavor.
Fold in 1 to 2 cups mashed ripe bananas, ensuring they’re well incorporated throughout the batter. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1½ to 2 cups flour, ½ to 1 teaspoon baking soda, and ⅛ to ½ teaspoon salt. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Add ½ cup finely chopped pecans if desired for extra texture and flavor.
Bake the Bars
Pour the prepared batter into our greased pan, spreading it evenly with an offset spatula. Bake for approximately 25 minutes, checking for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. The bars are ready when the toothpick comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before frosting to prevent the cream cheese frosting from melting.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
Begin by browning ½ cup butter in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until it develops a light golden color and nutty aroma. Allow the browned butter to cool slightly before proceeding.
Beat 4 to 8 ounces softened cream cheese with the cooled browned butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add 1 to 4 cups powdered sugar, mixing continuously to avoid lumps. Incorporate 1 to 2 teaspoons vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, beating until the frosting reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency.
Assemble and Frost
Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the completely cooled banana bars using an offset spatula or rubber spatula. Work from one end to the other, creating smooth, even coverage across the entire surface. Cut into squares and serve immediately, or store covered at room temperature for up to three days for optimal freshness.
Storage Instructions

Proper storage of our banana bars with cream cheese frosting depends on whether we’ve applied the frosting and how long we plan to keep them fresh.
Room Temperature Storage
We can store unfrosted banana bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. The bars maintain their soft texture and banana flavor when kept away from air exposure. But, once we add the cream cheese frosting, the storage rules change dramatically. Frosted bars should never sit at room temperature for more than 2 hours due to the perishable nature of the cream cheese.
Refrigerator Storage
Our frosted banana bars require refrigeration to stay safe and maintain quality. We store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator where they keep fresh for up to 1 week. Some sources suggest consuming them within 5 days for optimal taste and texture. Before serving refrigerated bars, we let them sit at room temperature for a while to soften the frosting and restore the ideal eating texture.
Freezer Storage
Both frosted and unfrosted banana bars freeze exceptionally well for longer storage. We wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in freezer-safe containers or bags. Properly stored bars maintain quality for up to 2 months in the freezer. Unfrosted bars that we wrap with extra care can last up to 4 months frozen. When we’re ready to enjoy frozen bars, we thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Storage Method | Duration | Container Type |
---|---|---|
Room Temperature (unfrosted) | Up to 5 days | Airtight container |
Room Temperature (frosted) | Maximum 2 hours | Not recommended |
Refrigerated (frosted) | Up to 1 week | Airtight container |
Frozen (any type) | Up to 2-4 months | Wrapped + freezer-safe container |
Additional Storage Tips
We always use airtight containers to maintain the bars’ moisture and prevent them from absorbing other flavors. Any leftover cream cheese frosting stores separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. This allows us to frost additional batches or use the frosting for other desserts throughout the week.
Make-Ahead Tips

Planning ahead makes these banana bars even more convenient for busy schedules or special occasions. We recommend preparing different components at various stages to maximize freshness while saving time.
Prepare the Bars in Advance
Baking the banana bars up to a day before serving delivers optimal results. We suggest keeping the unfrosted bars covered at room temperature to maintain their tender texture. This approach allows flavors to develop fully while keeping the bars moist and ready for frosting.
Make the Frosting Ahead of Time
Our cream cheese frosting stays fresh when prepared up to a week in advance. Store the frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to use. Allow the frosting to come to room temperature before spreading for easier application and smoother coverage.
Assembly Timeline Strategy
We find that frosting the bars just before serving provides the best presentation and texture. The contrast between room temperature bars and slightly cool frosting creates an ideal balance. This timing prevents the frosting from becoming too soft while maintaining the bars’ perfect moisture level.
Storage Flexibility Options
Room temperature storage works well for frosted bars consumed within three days. Refrigeration extends the life of frosted bars significantly when covered properly. We recommend bringing refrigerated bars to room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving to restore optimal texture and flavor.
Batch Preparation Benefits
Making multiple batches allows us to freeze unfrosted bars for future use. Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil for maximum freshness. This method provides ready to frost bars whenever needed while preserving the signature banana flavor we love.
Serving Suggestions

Our banana bars with cream cheese frosting offer versatile presentation options that enhance both visual appeal and taste experience. We recommend cutting these delectable treats into uniform squares or rectangles for the most professional appearance and consistent portion sizes.
Cutting and Portioning
Start by using a sharp knife to create clean cuts through both the frosting and bar layers. We suggest cutting the bars into 2-inch squares for individual servings or 3-inch rectangles for larger portions when serving at gatherings. Wiping the knife blade between cuts ensures each piece maintains neat edges without dragging frosting.
Presentation and Garnishing
Transform your banana bars into bakery-style desserts with simple garnishing techniques. We love sprinkling chopped walnuts or pecans over the cream cheese frosting to add texture and visual interest. A light dusting of ground cinnamon creates an appealing color contrast while complementing the banana flavors. Fresh banana slices arranged decoratively on top work beautifully for special occasions.
Temperature and Texture Considerations
Serve these bars at room temperature for the ideal balance of flavors and textures. The cream cheese frosting becomes perfectly smooth and spreadable when not too cold while the bars maintain their moist consistency. Allow refrigerated bars to sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to achieve optimal texture.
Pairing Suggestions
These banana bars pair wonderfully with hot beverages like coffee or tea for afternoon treats. We also recommend serving them alongside vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience. Fresh berries make an excellent accompaniment that adds brightness to balance the rich cream cheese frosting.
Storage for Serving
Store these bars at room temperature for up to three days in an airtight container to maintain their fresh taste and texture. This storage method keeps the bars readily available for spontaneous serving without requiring temperature adjustment time.
Recipe Variations

We love experimenting with different flavor combinations and textures to keep our banana bars exciting and fresh. These variations allow you to customize the recipe based on your preferences or available ingredients.
Nutty Banana Bars
Adding finely chopped pecans transforms our basic banana bars into a delightful textural experience. We recommend folding in 1 cup of chopped pecans directly into the batter before baking. The nuts provide a satisfying crunch that complements the soft banana base perfectly.
Nut Variation | Amount | Preparation |
---|---|---|
Pecans | 1 cup | Finely chopped |
Walnuts | 3/4 cup | Roughly chopped |
Almonds | 1/2 cup | Sliced or chopped |
Enhanced Flavor Profile
Almond extract elevates our banana bars with a subtle nutty sweetness that pairs beautifully with bananas. We add 1 teaspoon of almond extract alongside the vanilla extract for a more complex flavor profile. This simple addition creates bakery-quality depth without overwhelming the banana taste.
Browned Butter Cream Cheese Frosting
Our browned butter variation takes the cream cheese frosting to an entirely new level. We melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat until it turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma. This technique adds rich complexity to the frosting while maintaining its creamy texture.
Citrus Balanced Version
Lemon juice brings bright acidity that balances the sweetness of our banana bars perfectly. We incorporate 1 teaspoon of fresh lemon juice into the frosting to cut through the richness and add a refreshing finish. This variation works especially well for summer gatherings or when serving alongside rich meals.
Chocolate Chip Addition
Folding in 1 cup of mini chocolate chips creates an irresistible combination that appeals to chocolate lovers. We add the chips during the final mixing stage to ensure even distribution throughout the batter. Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips work best to complement the banana flavor without competing for attention.
Spiced Banana Bars
Our spiced variation incorporates warm spices that enhance the banana flavor naturally. We add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a cozy flavor profile reminiscent of banana bread.
Spice Addition | Amount | Flavor Profile |
---|---|---|
Cinnamon | 1 teaspoon | Warm and sweet |
Nutmeg | 1/4 teaspoon | Subtle warmth |
Cardamom | 1/8 teaspoon | Floral and exotic |
These variations maintain the same baking temperature and time while offering unique flavor experiences that keep our banana bars interesting for every occasion.
Conclusion
These banana bars with cream cheese frosting deliver everything we love about homemade desserts – they’re simple to make yet impressively delicious. We’ve shown you how to transform overripe bananas into bakery-quality treats that’ll have everyone asking for the recipe.
The beauty of this dessert lies in its versatility and convenience. Whether you’re planning ahead for a gathering or need a last-minute treat we’ve covered all the storage tips and make-ahead strategies to fit your schedule.
From the basic recipe to creative variations and serving suggestions we’ve equipped you with everything needed to make these bars your own. The combination of moist banana flavor and rich cream cheese frosting creates a dessert that’s both comforting and sophisticated – perfect for any occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen bananas for this banana bar recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen bananas! Make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing. Frozen bananas actually work well because they become very soft and easy to mash, which helps create the moist texture these bars are known for.
How ripe should the bananas be for the best flavor?
Use overripe bananas with brown spots or completely brown peels for the best results. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more intense the banana flavor will be in your bars. Avoid green or barely yellow bananas as they won’t provide enough sweetness or flavor.
Can I make these banana bars without the cream cheese frosting?
Absolutely! The banana bars are delicious on their own and can be enjoyed unfrosted. You can dust them with powdered sugar, drizzle with a simple glaze, or serve them plain. Unfrosted bars also store longer at room temperature.
What size pan should I use for this recipe?
Use a 10×15 inch jelly roll pan for the best cake-to-frosting ratio. This size ensures the bars have the perfect thickness and texture. Using a different pan size will affect baking time and the final texture of your bars.
How long do frosted banana bars last?
Frosted banana bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week due to the perishable cream cheese frosting. Don’t leave frosted bars at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Let them sit at room temperature before serving to soften the frosting.
Can I freeze banana bars?
Yes! Unfrosted bars freeze well for up to 4 months when properly wrapped. Frosted bars can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn and maintain freshness.
What nuts work best in banana bars?
Chopped pecans and walnuts are the most popular choices and complement the banana flavor perfectly. Add about 1/2 to 3/4 cup of chopped nuts to the batter. Toast the nuts beforehand for extra flavor and crunch.
Can I make the frosting ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the cream cheese frosting up to a week ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature before using and give it a quick stir to restore its smooth consistency for easy spreading.
Why did my banana bars turn out dry?
Dry banana bars usually result from overbaking or using bananas that aren’t ripe enough. Make sure to use very ripe bananas and check for doneness at 25 minutes. The bars should spring back lightly when touched and pull slightly from the pan edges.
Can I substitute the all-purpose flour?
You can substitute up to half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor. Avoid substituting all of it as this will make the bars dense. Gluten-free flour blends can work but may require slight adjustments to liquid ratios.