Description
Deliciously creamy Banana Cream Cheese Bars featuring a crunchy graham cracker crust, smooth cream cheese filling, fresh banana slices, and a sweet caramel drizzle. Perfect for a crowd-pleasing dessert or a delightful snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 cup crushed graham crackers
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup sugar
Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Toppings
- 2 bananas, sliced
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy removal.
- Prepare Crust: In a bowl, combine crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and 1/4 cup sugar. Press this mixture evenly into the base of the prepared baking dish to form the crust. Bake for 10 minutes until set, then allow to cool.
- Make Filling: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to fully incorporate. Stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Assemble Bars: Pour the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled crust, spreading it out with a spatula for uniform thickness.
- Add Toppings: Arrange the sliced bananas evenly on top of the cream cheese layer. Drizzle the caramel sauce over the banana slices for added sweetness and a beautiful finish.
- Bake: Bake the assembled bars in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden and the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
- Cool and Chill: Allow the bars to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set fully before slicing into bars.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened for a smooth filling without lumps.
- Use ripe but firm bananas to prevent excessive mushiness.
- For easier slicing, chill the bars overnight.
- Substitute caramel sauce with chocolate or fruit sauce for variation.
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
