This recipe for banana bars with cream cheese frosting has huge wow-factor. Easily turn your ripe bananas into a dessert that is perfectly moist and big on banana flavor, perfect to impress a crowd!
Preheat the oven to 350º F. Spray a 10x15 inch baking pan with non-stick cooking spray.
On medium-high heat over the stove, melt the butter and water and bring to a boil. Once it boils, remove it from the heat and set aside.
In a mixing bowl combine the sugar, brown sugar, banana, buttermilk, eggs and vanilla, beat with an electric mixer until smooth, 1-2 minutes.
Combine the flour, baking soda, salt and optional walnuts, then gradually add to the banana mixture.
Gently stir in the melted butter mixture until incorporated.
Pour the batter onto the baking sheet and bake for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the bars to cool completely before adding the frosting.
Cream Cheese Frosting
In a mixing bowl combine the cream cheese and butter, beat with an electric mixer until smooth, 1-2 minutes. Add in the vanilla extract and gradually add the powdered sugar, beat until smooth and thick. Spread the frosting on top of the cooled bars. Garnish with walnuts if desired. Slice and serve.
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Notes
How to Store Banana Bars
Unfrosted banana bars can be covered in an airtight container and stored at room temperature on the counter for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place in the fridge.
If they are frosted with cream cheese frosting, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.