If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that’s as dreamy as it is comforting, you absolutely have to try these Banana Cream Cheese Bars. Imagine all the cozy flavors of banana pudding and creamy cheesecake, packed into portable squares with a buttery graham cracker base and a swirl of caramel on top. Each bite melts in your mouth, and trust me, these bars are the kind of treat you’ll find yourself craving again and again. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself, Banana Cream Cheese Bars are guaranteed to steal the show at any table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Banana Cream Cheese Bars lies in their simplicity—each ingredient plays an important role in building the layers of flavor and texture. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need and why these pantry staples make all the difference.
- Crushed graham crackers: These form the classic, slightly sweet and crumbly base that holds everything together.
- Melted butter: Acts as the glue for your crust, adding richness and helping the base set perfectly.
- Sugar (for the crust): A touch of sweetness that balances the graham crackers and enhances the dessert’s overall flavor.
- Cream cheese, softened: The star of the creamy layer, it provides a smooth and tangy contrast to the sweet bananas.
- Sugar (for the filling): Sweetens the cream cheese mixture just enough without overpowering the natural banana flavor.
- Eggs: These bind the creamy filling together and give the bars their satisfyingly dense texture.
- Vanilla extract: Infuses a lovely warmth and rounds out the sweetness of the filling.
- Bananas, sliced: Fresh banana slices add natural sweetness and a pop of flavor in every bite.
- Caramel sauce: Drizzled on top, it brings a luxurious finish and a hint of indulgence to each bar.
How to Make Banana Cream Cheese Bars
Step 1: Prep the Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. This simple step makes it so much easier to lift your Banana Cream Cheese Bars out of the pan later on—trust me, it’s worth it for those clean, beautiful slices!
Step 2: Make the Graham Cracker Crust
In a mixing bowl, stir together the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and sugar until everything is evenly moistened. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared dish to form an even, compact layer. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then let it cool while you whip up the filling. This crust is the perfect buttery-sweet foundation for our creamy layers.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
Grab a fresh bowl and beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each, then stir in the vanilla extract. This luscious filling is what gives Banana Cream Cheese Bars their rich, cheesecake-like texture.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cooled graham cracker crust and use a spatula to spread it evenly to all corners. Don’t worry if it looks a little thick—the filling will settle as it bakes.
Step 5: Add Bananas and Caramel
Arrange the banana slices in a single layer on top of the cream cheese mixture. Drizzle the caramel sauce over the bananas, letting it sink in and swirl a bit. This is where the magic really happens—the bananas caramelize slightly in the oven and the sauce adds an irresistible richness.
Step 6: Bake
Bake your bars in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is just set. The aroma will fill your kitchen with the scent of caramelized bananas and creamy cheesecake—pure heaven!
Step 7: Cool and Chill
Let the bars cool at room temperature, then transfer them to the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This chilling step ensures the bars are perfectly set and easy to slice. Once chilled, lift them out of the pan, cut into squares, and get ready to dig in to your homemade Banana Cream Cheese Bars.
How to Serve Banana Cream Cheese Bars
Garnishes
For a finishing touch, try topping your Banana Cream Cheese Bars with a drizzle of extra caramel sauce or a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers. If you’re feeling fancy, a dollop of whipped cream and a few extra banana slices make them look irresistibly lush and bakery-worthy.
Side Dishes
Because these bars are rich and creamy, they pair beautifully with light, fresh sides. Try serving them with fresh berries, a simple fruit salad, or even a hot cup of coffee or tea to balance out the sweetness. They’re also a lovely addition to a dessert platter with chocolate-dipped strawberries or crisp cookies.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress, stack the bars on a pretty cake stand and sprinkle with powdered sugar right before serving. For parties, cut the bars into bite-sized pieces and pop them into mini cupcake liners. You can even layer cubes of Banana Cream Cheese Bars in parfait glasses with whipped cream and extra caramel for a show-stopping dessert.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Banana Cream Cheese Bars are just as delicious the next day, making them perfect for make-ahead treats. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days—the flavors actually deepen and become even more irresistible as they sit.
Freezing
If you want to save some bars for later, simply wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
These bars are usually enjoyed chilled, but if you prefer them slightly warm, pop a slice in the microwave for about 10 seconds. This softens the filling and makes the caramel extra gooey. Just be careful not to overheat, as the cream cheese layer can become too soft.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Dessert
Absolutely! While graham cracker crust is classic, you can easily swap in crushed vanilla wafers, shortbread cookies, or even chocolate cookies for a fun twist on the flavor profile.
Do the bananas turn brown in the bars?
Because the banana slices are baked and covered with caramel, they tend to keep their color well, especially if you refrigerate the bars promptly. For best results, use just-ripe bananas and avoid overexposing them to air before baking.
Can I make Banana Cream Cheese Bars gluten free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free graham crackers or cookies for the crust. Double-check that your caramel sauce and other ingredients are gluten free, and you’re good to go.
What’s the best way to slice the bars cleanly?
For neat, bakery-style cuts, chill the bars thoroughly and use a sharp knife wiped clean between slices. You can also run your knife under hot water and dry it before cutting to help achieve smooth edges.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Definitely! Just use a 9×13-inch pan, double all the ingredients, and add a few extra minutes to the baking time. Keep an eye on the center to make sure it’s set before taking them out of the oven.
Final Thoughts
If you love creamy, dreamy desserts with a hint of nostalgia and a whole lot of flavor, give these Banana Cream Cheese Bars a try. They’re simple to make, full of comfort, and sure to bring big smiles to anyone lucky enough to grab a square. Happy baking!
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Banana Cream Cheese Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes plus 2 hours chilling
- Yield: 9 bars 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Banana Cream Cheese Bars feature a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a creamy, smooth cream cheese layer, fresh banana slices, and a drizzle of caramel sauce. Perfectly balanced between sweet and tangy, these bars make a delightful dessert or snack that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 cup crushed graham crackers
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup sugar
For the Cream Cheese Layer
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Topping
- 2 bananas, sliced
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the bars after baking.
- Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and 1/4 cup sugar. Mix well until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove from oven and let it cool.
- Create the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a separate large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1/2 cup sugar until it becomes smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to create a homogeneous mixture. Stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Assemble the Bars: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust and spread evenly with a spatula. Arrange the sliced bananas on top of the cream cheese layer in an even layer. Drizzle the caramel sauce over the banana slices.
- Bake: Place the baking dish into the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. The edges should turn lightly golden while the center sets but still slightly jiggles when you gently shake the pan.
- Cool and Refrigerate: Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature, then transfer to the refrigerator. Chill for at least 2 hours to fully set before slicing into bars.
- Serve: Once chilled and set, remove from the pan using the parchment paper edges, slice into 9 servings, and enjoy your delicious banana cream cheese bars!
Notes
- For best results, use ripe but firm bananas to avoid overly mushy toppings.
- You can substitute caramel sauce with dulce de leche or honey for a different flavor.
- Make sure cream cheese is softened at room temperature to prevent lumps in the filling.
- Store the bars covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To enhance texture, sprinkle a small handful of chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts) on top before baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (approximately 1/9 of recipe)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 1.5g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
