Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars Recipe
If you have a soft spot for luscious, creamy desserts that combine the rich tang of cheesecake with the natural sweetness of bananas, then you are going to adore this Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars Recipe. These bars boast a perfectly crisp graham cracker crust, a dreamy banana-infused cheesecake filling, and a smooth topping that makes every bite taste like a little slice of heaven. Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser for a gathering or just want an indulgent treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee, these bars are a must-try dessert that truly shines in simplicity and flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars Recipe uses straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. Each component plays an essential role—from the crunchy, buttery crust to the silky banana cheesecake filling—making this recipe approachable without sacrificing any deliciousness.
- Graham cracker crumbs (2 cups): Provides a crisp, sweet base that holds the bars together.
- Unsalted butter, melted (1/2 cup): Binds the crust ingredients while adding rich, creamy notes.
- Granulated sugar (2 tablespoons + 1/2 cup): Sweetens both the crust and filling; balances the tanginess of the cream cheese.
- Ripe bananas (2, mashed): Offers natural sweetness and moist texture that define the banana cream essence.
- Cream cheese, softened (16 ounces): The star of the filling, giving it that signature cheesecake richness.
- Large eggs (2): Helps set the cheesecake filling to the perfect firmness.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds depth and elevates the banana flavor.
- Banana extract (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Intensifies the banana notes for an extra punch of flavor.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): Brings creaminess and a slight tang to balance sweetness.
- Whipped topping or whipped cream (1 cup): Used as a light, airy garnish to finish the bars perfectly.
- Optional toppings – sliced bananas and crushed vanilla wafers: Adds an attractive and textural contrast.
How to Make Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the crust
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C) and lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal later. In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, melted unsalted butter, and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan to create that crisp, buttery crust that will serve as the perfect foundation for your cheesecake bars.
Step 2: Mix the cheesecake filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s completely smooth and fluffy. Then add the mashed ripe bananas, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and if you like, banana extract for a stronger banana flavor. Mix everything until creamy and well combined. Finally, gently fold in the sour cream until the filling has a smooth, luscious texture that will bake into a velvety cheesecake layer.
Step 3: Assemble and bake
Pour the creamy banana cheesecake filling over the prepared crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll want to bake until the center is just set and not jiggly—this ensures the bars will hold their shape but stay tender and moist inside.
Step 4: Chill and add toppings
Once baked, let the cheesecake bars cool at room temperature before transferring them to the refrigerator to chill for at least four hours or overnight. This chilling step is crucial for allowing the flavors to develop fully and the texture to firm up perfectly. Before slicing, spread the whipped topping or whipped cream on top and decorate with fresh banana slices and crushed vanilla wafers if you’re feeling fancy.
How to Serve Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
Keep it simple but stunning with classic garnishes like fresh banana slices and a sprinkle of crushed vanilla wafers for a delightful texture contrast. A light dusting of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel sauce can also elevate these bars to a whole new level of dessert bliss.
Side Dishes
This dessert pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk for a comforting combo. You could also serve it alongside fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat that complements the creamy banana flavor beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering the Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars Recipe filling and crust in mini jars or ramekins for an individual serving with visual appeal. Alternatively, cut the bars into mini bites for parties or sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes and chopped nuts for an exciting twist that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and creamy. They will stay delicious for up to 2 to 3 days, making them a great make-ahead dessert option you can enjoy over several days without any loss of quality.
Freezing
If you want to keep your Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars Recipe longer, you can freeze them. Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen, they maintain their flavor and texture for up to 1 month. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before serving for the best results.
Reheating
Since these bars are best enjoyed chilled, reheating is generally not recommended. If you prefer a softer texture, let the bars sit at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes before serving instead of using heat.
FAQs
Can I substitute the graham cracker crust?
Absolutely! You can try using crushed vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits instead of graham crackers to switch up the flavor. Just be sure to use the same amount and adjust the melted butter accordingly for the best crust texture.
Do I have to use banana extract?
Not at all. Banana extract is optional and simply enhances the banana flavor. The ripe mashed bananas themselves provide plenty of natural banana taste, so you can skip the extract if you prefer a more straightforward flavor.
How ripe should the bananas be?
For the tastiest Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars Recipe, use bananas that are very ripe, with lots of brown spots. These bananas are the sweetest and have the best flavor to enrich your cheesecake filling.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free graham crackers or an alternative gluten-free cookie crumb for the crust. Double check any other ingredients to make sure they are gluten-free to keep your dessert safe and delicious.
How thick should I cut the bars?
Cut your bars into nine squares by slicing evenly across the 8×8 pan into thirds both ways. This size balances the richness and makes them easy to serve without overpowering the palate.
Final Thoughts
There is something undeniably special about this Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars Recipe that brings comfort and joy to any table. It’s approachable enough for bakers of all levels and loved by everyone who tries it. Next time you want a dessert that’s creamy, flavorful, and just a little bit indulgent, give this recipe a go—I promise it will become a new favorite in your dessert rotation.
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Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour and 20 minutes including chilling
- Yield: 9 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these creamy Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars featuring a buttery graham cracker crust and a rich banana-infused cheesecake filling. Perfectly baked and topped with whipped cream and optional banana slices and crushed vanilla wafers, these bars offer a luscious, easy-to-make dessert ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Cheesecake Filling
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon banana extract (optional)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Topping
- 1 cup whipped topping or whipped cream
- Optional: sliced bananas and crushed vanilla wafers for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Crust: Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan to form an even crust layer.
- Make Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the mashed bananas, 1/2 cup sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and banana extract if using. Mix thoroughly until fully combined and smooth. Fold in the sour cream gently until the batter is uniform and creamy.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust in the baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the center is just set and no longer jiggly when shaken gently.
- Cool and Chill: Remove the cheesecake bars from the oven and allow them to cool at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to set completely.
- Serve: Before serving, top with whipped cream or whipped topping. Add optional sliced bananas and crushed vanilla wafers for garnish. Cut into bars and serve chilled for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use very ripe bananas to maximize natural sweetness and banana flavor.
- Banana extract enhances the banana taste but can be omitted if unavailable.
- These bars are best served chilled and should be consumed within 2–3 days to preserve freshness and texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
