Description
These Banana Cream Cheese Bars feature a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a smooth cream cheese filling, fresh banana slices, and a drizzle of rich caramel sauce. Baked to golden perfection and chilled for a creamy, delicious treat that’s perfect for dessert or a sweet 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
Topping
- 2 bananas, sliced
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of bars.
- Make the Crust: In a bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and sugar. Mix thoroughly until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Bake the crust for 10 minutes until set, then remove and allow it to cool.
- Prepare the Filling: In a clean bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to incorporate fully. Stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor.
- Assemble the Bars: Pour the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled crust, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Arrange banana slices in an even layer over the cream cheese filling. Drizzle the caramel sauce generously over the banana layer.
- Bake: Place the assembled dish in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until the edges turn lightly golden and the center is set but slightly jiggly.
- Cool and Chill: Remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the bars fully set and develop their flavors.
- Serve: After chilling, slice into 9 bars and serve chilled. Enjoy this creamy, sweet dessert with a cup of coffee or as a delightful end to any meal.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to avoid lumps in the filling.
- For a firmer texture, refrigerate the bars overnight.
- You can substitute caramel sauce with dulce de leche or chocolate drizzle for variation.
- Use ripe but firm bananas to prevent them from becoming mushy during baking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
