Name: Banana Cheesecake Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 cup mashed banana ((approximately 2 large bananas)); 12 oz cream cheese ((use vegan cream cheese if desired)); 1/2 cup sweetener of choice ((options include maple syrup, coconut sugar, or agave nectar)); 1 tbsp cornstarch ((or substitute with 4 tbsp almond flour)); 1 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract; 1/4 tsp cinnamon ((optional: for added warmth and spice)); 1 recipe crust ((two crust recipes are provided below))

If you’re a fan of creamy desserts with a fruity twist, these Banana Cheesecake Bars are about to become your new favorite treat! Imagine a luscious cheesecake filling made with ripe bananas, perfectly balanced sweetness, and a hint of vanilla, all set in a delicious crust. Whether you enjoy them as a snack, dessert, or even breakfast (we won’t judge), these bars are a delightful way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your counter.

These Banana Cheesecake Bars are incredibly easy to make, and with the right ingredients, they can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of dietary preferences. So grab your apron, and let’s get baking!

What Makes This Recipe Special

These Banana Cheesecake Bars stand out for several reasons:

– **Flavor Fusion**: The combination of sweet bananas and creamy cheesecake creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and indulgent.
– **Versatility**: You can customize the sweetness and use vegan alternatives, making this recipe suitable for many diets.
– **Easy to Make**: With simple steps and minimal prep time, these bars are perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros.
– **Healthy Twist**: With the option to use natural sweeteners and alternative flours, you can make these bars a bit healthier without sacrificing taste.

What Goes Into Banana Cheesecake Bars

To create these delicious Banana Cheesecake Bars, you will need the following ingredients:

1 cup mashed banana (approximately 2 large bananas)
12 oz cream cheese (use vegan cream cheese if desired)
1/2 cup sweetener of choice (options include maple syrup, coconut sugar, or agave nectar)
1 tbsp cornstarch (or substitute with 4 tbsp almond flour)
1 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
Optional: 1/4 tsp cinnamon (for added warmth and spice)
Optional crust (two crust recipes are provided below)

Must-Have Equipment

Before you dive into making these bars, ensure you have the following equipment:

Mixing bowl – For combining all the filling ingredients.
Electric mixer – To achieve that creamy cheesecake texture.
Baking dish – A 9×9 inch or 8×8 inch dish works perfectly.
Spatula – For smoothing out the filling and scraping down the sides of the bowl.
Oven – To bake your delicious bars to perfection.

Mastering Banana Cheesecake Bars: How-To

Follow these simple steps to whip up your Banana Cheesecake Bars:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your bars will bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare Your Crust (Optional)

If you’re using a crust, prepare it according to your chosen recipe. You can use a simple graham cracker crust or a nut-based crust for a healthier option. Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of your baking dish.

Step 3: Mash the Bananas

In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. You want them to be as lump-free as possible for a silky filling.

Step 4: Blend the Filling

In another bowl, combine the cream cheese, sweetener, cornstarch (or almond flour), vanilla extract, and optional cinnamon. Use an electric mixer to blend until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Incorporate the Bananas

Gently fold the mashed bananas into the cream cheese mixture until well combined. Make sure everything is evenly mixed for the best flavor.

Step 6: Pour the Mixture

Spread the banana cheesecake filling evenly over the prepared crust in your baking dish. Use a spatula to smooth out the top.

Step 7: Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges start to slightly pull away from the sides.

Step 8: Cool and Chill

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool at room temperature. Then, refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing into bars. This step is crucial for the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up.

Step 9: Slice and Serve

Once chilled, slice the bars into squares or rectangles. Serve them as is or topped with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra treat!

Low-Carb/Keto Alternatives

If you’re looking to make these Banana Cheesecake Bars lower in carbs, consider the following alternatives:

Use a low-carb sweetener such as erythritol or stevia in place of regular sweeteners.
Substitute almond flour for cornstarch to keep the texture and reduce carbs.
Opt for a nut-based crust made with almond flour and butter instead of graham crackers.
Reduce the amount of banana to lower the sugar content, but keep in mind this will affect the flavor and texture.

Behind-the-Scenes Notes

Feel free to experiment with your favorite nuts or seeds in the crust for added texture.
These Banana Cheesecake Bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week if they last that long!
For a unique twist, add chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the cheesecake filling before baking.
These bars can also be frozen; just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store them in an airtight container.

Save It for Later

If you love these Banana Cheesecake Bars, make sure to save this recipe! You can bookmark it, print it out, or pin it to your favorite recipe board on Pinterest. Sharing is caring, so don’t forget to share your delicious creations on social media with friends and family!

Reader Q&A

Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before mashing them. Frozen bananas work beautifully in this recipe.

How can I make these bars gluten-free?

To make these bars gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free crust option like almond flour or gluten-free graham crackers. The filling is naturally gluten-free!

Can I add other flavors to the cheesecake filling?

Absolutely! You can incorporate other flavors such as cocoa powder for chocolate banana bars or even add some lemon zest for a citrusy twist.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The bars are done when the center is set and doesn’t jiggle excessively. The edges should look slightly puffed and may pull away from the sides of the pan.

Final Bite

These Banana Cheesecake Bars are not only a delightful way to use up ripe bananas, but they also offer a creamy, indulgent experience that everyone will love. Easy to make and versatile in flavor, you can customize and enjoy them in countless ways. So go ahead, treat yourself and your loved ones to this delicious dessert. You might just find that these bars become a staple in your baking repertoire!

These Banana Cheesecake Bars are the perfect combination of sweetness and creaminess, making them a must-try for any dessert lover. Whether you enjoy them chilled or at room temperature, each bite is sure to bring a smile to your face. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in this delightful treat!