Banana Bars Topped with Cream Cheese Frosting

Moist banana bars are studded with walnuts or pecans and topped with a tangy cream cheese frosting for a dessert that’s sure to please.

Three pieces of frosted banana bars arranged next to a fork on a stoneware plate.

I adore bananas but often find myself unable to consume them before they become too speckled for my morning cereal. However, this tends to provide me with a perfect opportunity to bake something delicious!

If you’re like me and frequently deal with an endless supply of overly ripe bananas, I’ve got you covered—think strawberry banana muffins, banana cupcakes, or banana coffee cake.

Today, we will be adding these delectable banana bars with cream cheese frosting to that list!

Perfect Banana Bars with Tangy Cream Cheese Frosting

This time of year can feel quite peculiar. The festive season is behind us, and with it go holiday favorites like cranberries and peppermint—but spring produce has yet to really make its debut.

During this transitional period, I gravitate heavily toward citrus-based recipes and ingredients such as bananas—items that are available year-round and help me bridge the gap between winter and spring.

These banana bars with cream cheese frosting are a go-to recipe during this time.

These bars boast a moist texture with just the right amount of sweetness. They contain nuts—walnuts are usually my preference, but pecans are also fantastic—and are topped with a luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting.

Furthermore, they make for an ideal dessert to share with a crowd, as you can cut them into any desired size. If banana nut bread is a favorite of yours, you’ll fall in love with these banana bars!

Hand holding a frosted banana bar up to the camera; the pan of sliced bars is visible in the background.

How to Make Banana Bars

These banana bars are simple to prepare, making them an excellent choice for a last-minute dessert for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

If you have two ripe bananas available but not enough to whip up a loaf of banana bread, this recipe is perfect for you.

For the bars, you will need:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter at room temperature
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs at room temperature
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup mashed bananas (from about 2 medium bananas)
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

For the cream cheese frosting, you will need:

  • 8 ounces cream cheese at room temperature
  • 1/4 cup softened unsalted butter
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 3 3/4 cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted

You can either spread the cream cheese frosting over the banana bars or pipe it on for a more decorative finish. If you choose the latter, it may be advisable to double the frosting recipe, as piping generally requires more frosting than simply spreading it.

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 15x10x1-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper, spraying it with nonstick cooking spray.
  2. In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream together the butter and sugars until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, then mix in the sour cream and vanilla until well combined.
  3. In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Stir in the mashed bananas and nuts until fully incorporated.
  4. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the bars to cool completely before frosting.
  5. For the cream cheese frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add the vanilla, then gradually incorporate the confectioners’ sugar until combined. Beat the frosting until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Spread or pipe the frosting on the cooled bars.

Storage Tips

Store the banana bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To freeze, place the sliced bars on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until firm. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a zip-top freezer bag for up to one month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Sliced pan of banana bars topped with cream cheese frosting.

Recipe FAQs

Can I make these banana bars in a 9×13-inch pan?

Yes! If you don’t have a jelly roll pan, feel free to use a 9×13-inch pan. Be aware that the bars will be thicker and will require a longer bake time.

I don’t like cream cheese frosting. What else can I use instead?

If cream cheese frosting isn’t your favorite, you can substitute it with brown butter frosting or classic homemade buttercream frosting for a different yet delightful flavor!

Can I use yogurt instead of sour cream in the bars?

Absolutely! If you prefer not to use sour cream or don’t have any, plain yogurt works well. Full-fat Greek yogurt is particularly great for baking.

Ingredient Amount
Unsalted butter 1/2 cup
Granulated sugar 1 cup
Light brown sugar 1/2 cup
Large eggs 2
Sour cream 1 cup
Vanilla extract 2 teaspoons
All-purpose flour 2 cups
Baking soda 1 1/4 teaspoons
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Mashed bananas 1 cup (from about 2 medium bananas)
Chopped walnuts or pecans 1 cup
Cream cheese (for frosting) 8 ounces
Unsalted butter (for frosting) 1/4 cup
Vanilla extract (for frosting) 2 teaspoons
Confectioners’ sugar 3 3/4 cups, sifted

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