There’s something incredibly comforting about the combination of bananas and cream cheese. These Banana Cheesecake Bars are the perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and a little tangy, making them an ideal dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a gathering, or simply indulging in a sweet treat, these bars are sure to impress. Plus, they’re easy to make and can be whipped up in no time!
What Makes This Recipe Special
These Banana Cheesecake Bars are not only delicious but also customizable to suit your dietary needs. By using ripe bananas, you add natural sweetness and moisture to the cheesecake mixture, eliminating the need for excessive sugar. The creamy texture of vegan cream cheese allows everyone to enjoy this delightful dessert without compromising on flavor. Plus, these bars can be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, making them the perfect make-ahead treat.
Your Shopping Guide
Before you start baking, make sure you have the following ingredients on hand:
- 2 large ripe bananas (for 1 cup mashed banana)
- 12 oz cream cheese (can be vegan)
- 1/2 cup sweetener of choice (options: granulated sugar, coconut sugar, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (or 4 tbsp almond flour)
- 1 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- Optional: 1/4 tsp cinnamon
- Optional: crust ingredients (see recipes below)
Equipment Breakdown
To make these Banana Cheesecake Bars, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools:
- Mixing bowls: For combining your ingredients.
- Electric mixer: To achieve a smooth and creamy cheesecake batter.
- 9×9-inch baking dish: Ideal for baking and serving your bars.
- Parchment paper: To line your baking dish for easy removal.
- Spatula: For spreading the cheesecake mixture evenly.
Banana Cheesecake Bars, Made Easy
Making Banana Cheesecake Bars is a straightforward process. Just follow these steps:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). If using a crust, prepare it according to your chosen recipe. For a simple crust, you can use crushed graham crackers mixed with melted butter or a gluten-free alternative.
Step 2: Mash the Bananas
In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. You can use a fork or a potato masher for this step. Measure out 1 cup of mashed banana for the cheesecake filling.
Step 3: Blend the Cream Cheese
In another mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer until creamy and smooth. If you’re using vegan cream cheese, ensure it’s at room temperature for easier blending.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Add the mashed bananas, sweetener, cornstarch (or almond flour), vanilla extract, and optional cinnamon to the cream cheese. Beat until well combined and creamy.
Step 5: Assemble the Bars
If you prepared a crust, press it evenly into the bottom of your lined baking dish. Pour the banana cheesecake mixture over the crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours to set.
Step 7: Slice and Serve
Once chilled, lift the bars out of the baking dish using the parchment paper. Slice into squares and serve chilled. Drizzle with chocolate sauce or top with fresh fruit for an extra touch!
Substitutions by Category
If you need to make substitutions for any reason, consider the following options:
- Sweeteners: Maple syrup, agave nectar, or stevia can be used instead of granulated sugar.
- Flours: Almond flour can replace cornstarch for a gluten-free option.
- Cream Cheese: Use vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free version.
- Crust: Substitute crushed nuts or oats for a gluten-free crust.
Testing Timeline
The best time to test your Banana Cheesecake Bars is after they have chilled in the refrigerator. Here’s a quick timeline to help you plan:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Baking Time: 25-30 minutes
- Cooling Time: 10 minutes
- Chilling Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: Approximately 2 hours and 55 minutes
Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide
To keep your Banana Cheesecake Bars fresh, follow these storage tips:
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the uncut bars. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, and they can last up to 2 months in the freezer. Just thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Popular Questions
Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before mashing them to avoid making the cheesecake too watery.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply use gluten-free graham crackers or nuts for the crust and ensure your other ingredients are gluten-free.
How do I know when the cheesecake bars are done baking?
The edges should be set, and the center should still have a slight jiggle. They will firm up as they chill in the refrigerator.
Can I add toppings to these bars?
Definitely! Fresh fruit, a drizzle of chocolate, or a dollop of whipped cream can elevate your Banana Cheesecake Bars even further.
One Pan, More Ideas
If you love these Banana Cheesecake Bars, you might also enjoy:
Ready, Set, Cook
Now that you have all the details, it’s time to get started on your Banana Cheesecake Bars. Grab your ingredients, gather your equipment, and enjoy the delightful process of baking these scrumptious bars. Don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family, and savor every bite!
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Banana Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your crust if using.
- Step 2: Mash the Bananas - Mash the ripe bananas until smooth in a mixing bowl.
- Step 3: Blend the Cream Cheese - Beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer until creamy.
- Step 4: Combine Ingredients - Mix in mashed bananas, sweetener, cornstarch (or almond flour), vanilla extract, and optional cinnamon.
- Step 5: Assemble the Bars - If using a crust, press it into the baking dish and pour the cheesecake mixture over it.
- Step 6: Bake - Bake for 25-30 minutes until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
- Step 7: Slice and Serve - Let cool, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Slice and serve chilled.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freeze uncut bars wrapped tightly for up to 2 months.
- Try adding fresh fruit or a drizzle of chocolate for extra flavor.
