Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Banana Cream Cheese Bars offer a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The graham cracker crust gives a delightful crunch, while the cream cheese filling is smooth and decadent. The ripe bananas add a fresh sweetness, and the caramel sauce enhances the flavor, making each bite a little indulgence. Plus, they’re easy to prepare and a great way to use up overripe bananas!

Ingredients

1 cup crushed graham crackers
1/4 cup melted butter
1/4 cup sugar
16 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 bananas, sliced
1/2 cup caramel sauce

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
In a bowl, mix the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the base of the dish. Bake for 10 minutes.
In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, and continue mixing until well combined.
Pour the cream cheese mixture over the baked crust, spreading it evenly.
Arrange the banana slices on top of the cream cheese layer, then drizzle the caramel sauce over the bananas.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set. Allow the bars to cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12 bars
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 40-45 minutes (including crust and cream cheese mixture baking)
Chill Time: 2 hours

Variations

Add nuts: You can add chopped walnuts or pecans on top for a crunchy contrast.
Chocolate drizzle: For extra sweetness, drizzle melted chocolate over the bars instead of caramel.
Use other fruits: Try replacing the bananas with sliced strawberries or blueberries for a different fruity flavor.
Gluten-free: Use gluten-free graham crackers for a gluten-free version of this dessert.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover Banana Cream Cheese Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating: These bars are best served chilled, so there’s no need to reheat them. If you prefer, you can leave them at room temperature for a short time before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I make these Banana Cream Cheese Bars ahead of time?

Yes, these bars can be made up to 2 days ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors will develop even more as they chill!

2. Can I use frozen bananas in this recipe?

Fresh bananas are best for this recipe, as frozen bananas may become too mushy after thawing. Fresh bananas will give a firmer texture to the bars.

3. Can I use a different type of crust?

Yes, you can substitute graham crackers with other cookies like digestive biscuits or shortbread for a different flavor. Just make sure to crush them finely.

4. How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The bars are done when the center is set and no longer jiggly. You can also check with a toothpick—if it comes out clean, they’re ready!

5. Can I skip the caramel sauce?

You can, but the caramel sauce adds a rich, sweet flavor that complements the bananas and cream cheese filling. If you prefer a lighter version, you can drizzle honey or omit it entirely.

6. Can I freeze these bars?

Yes, you can freeze Banana Cream Cheese Bars. Once they are completely cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

7. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, but keep in mind that the bars may have a slightly different texture. The flavor will still be delicious!

8. Can I add more bananas to the recipe?

Certainly! If you love bananas, feel free to add more slices on top of the cream cheese filling for an even stronger banana flavor.

9. What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?

For an egg-free version, try using a flaxseed or chia egg (1 tablespoon of ground flax or chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons of water, then let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken) as a substitute for each egg.

10. What’s the best way to cut these bars?

After refrigerating, use a sharp knife to cut the bars. For clean cuts, you can dip the knife in warm water and wipe it dry between cuts.

Conclusion

These Banana Cream Cheese Bars are the perfect dessert for any occasion. They offer a delicious combination of creamy, fruity, and caramel flavors, and their easy preparation makes them a great option for busy days. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat to enjoy with family or a dish to bring to a gathering, these bars will impress everyone!

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These Banana Cream Cheese Bars combine a rich, creamy filling with sweet banana slices and a buttery graham cracker crust, topped with a drizzle of caramel. Perfect for a delicious dessert that will satisfy your sweet cravings.

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 55 minutes
Yield: 12 bars
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
Mix the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the base of the baking dish and bake for 10 minutes.
Beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth. Add in the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust, spreading it evenly.
Arrange the banana slices on top and drizzle with caramel sauce.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, until set. Cool completely before refrigerating for at least 2 hours.

Notes

Let the bars cool completely before refrigerating to set properly.
For an extra touch, add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans on top before baking.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.