Banana Bread Cheesecake Bars
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There’s something magical about the combination of banana bread and cheesecake, and these Banana Bread Cheesecake Bars bring that magic to life! Imagine the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake paired with the warm, comforting flavors of sweet bananas. This delightful treat is perfect for any occasion, from cozy family gatherings to casual weeknight desserts. I remember the first time I baked them; the aroma wafting through my kitchen was enough to charm anyone. They disappeared in a flash, and I found myself jotting down the recipe for the next gathering.
Why you’ll love this dish
Why opt for a standard dessert when you can indulge in Banana Bread Cheesecake Bars? This recipe is not only easy to make, but it’s also incredibly satisfying. You get the best of both worlds: the moistness of banana bread and the rich creaminess of cheesecake, all topped with melted chocolate chips—who could resist? Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat to cap off dinner or a delightful afternoon snack, these bars are the perfect choice.
“These bars are a game-changer! I made them for a get-together, and they were the first dessert to go!” – A happy home baker
How this recipe comes together
Making Banana Bread Cheesecake Bars is a breeze! You’ll start by preparing a luscious cheesecake filling, followed by a banana cake batter—yes, there’s no complicated layering here! Essentially, you mix, pour, swirl, and bake. The process is straightforward and rewarding, producing a beautiful dessert that’s sure to impress family and friends. You’ll make the banana layer and then top it with a silky cheesecake layer, creating a deliciously marbled effect.
What you’ll need
Gather these ingredients for a delightful experience:
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 medium overripe bananas
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 6 ounces milk chocolate chips
Feel free to substitute with Greek yogurt for cream cheese if you’re looking for a lighter version or use whole wheat flour for a health twist.
Step-by-step instructions
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Prep the pan: Begin by preparing an 8×8 inch baking pan. Line the bottom with a piece of parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang for easy removal later.
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Make the cheesecake layer: In a small bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add in the softened butter, powdered sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Whip on high speed for about two minutes and set aside.
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Prepare the banana batter: In a separate large bowl, mash the bananas for about one minute. Next, mix in the melted butter, granulated sugar, vanilla, and eggs. Beat for another two minutes until well incorporated.
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Combine dry ingredients: Carefully add the flour, baking soda, and baking powder into the banana mixture and mix on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
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Layer your batter: Pour the banana cake batter into the prepared baking pan. Drop spoonfuls of the cheesecake filling over the banana bacon batter.
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Swirl the layers: Use the tip of a knife to gently swirl the cheesecake filling into the banana batter for that marbled effect.
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Bake: Place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Add the final touch: Remove from the oven and sprinkle chocolate chips on top. Let them melt for about 10 minutes, then spread the melted chocolate over the bar with a spatula.
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Cool and serve: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into squares. This will help the chocolate harden and make slicing easier.
How to serve Banana Bread Cheesecake Bars
These bars are incredibly versatile! Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert, or enjoy them chilled with a cup of coffee for a delightful morning treat. For additional flair, try topping them with sliced bananas or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added texture. You might even consider drizzling some caramel sauce on top for an irresistible finishing touch.
Keeping leftovers fresh
To store your Banana Bread Cheesecake Bars, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can stay fresh for about 4 to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them! Just wrap each bar in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can last up to three months frozen. Remember to thaw them in the refrigerator before enjoying!
Pro chef tips
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Use overripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bars will be. Spotty, brown bananas are perfect for this recipe!
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Mix-ins: Don’t hesitate to add some chopped nuts or shredded coconut for extra texture and flavor!
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Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on your bars towards the end of the baking time. A toothpick should come out clean, but a few moist crumbs are okay and will result in a softer bar.
Creative twists
There’s always room for creativity in the kitchen! Here are some fun variations to consider:
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Nut butter swirl: Adding a dollop of peanut butter or almond butter to the cream cheese mixture can create a deliciously nutty flavor.
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Spiced up: Adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the banana batter will take the flavor to another level.
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Vegan version: Swap the cream cheese for a vegan alternative, replace eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce, and go for coconut or almond milk instead of regular milk.
Your questions answered
What is the prep time?
Preparation takes about 20 minutes with baking time of approximately 35 minutes.
Can I substitute the cream cheese?
Yes, you can use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a lighter or vegan-friendly option.
How do I know when they are done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, they are done!
Elevate your baking game and try this Banana Bread Cheesecake Bars recipe – you won’t regret it! Each bite is a celebration of flavor that’s bound to leave you and your guests asking for seconds. Happy baking!
Banana Bread Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients
Method
- Prepare an 8×8 inch baking pan by lining the bottom with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang.
- In a small bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the softened butter, powdered sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Whip on high speed for about two minutes and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mash the bananas for about one minute. Mix in the melted butter, granulated sugar, vanilla, and eggs. Beat for another two minutes until well incorporated.
- Add the flour, baking soda, and baking powder into the banana mixture and mix on low speed until just combined.
- Pour the banana cake batter into the prepared baking pan. Drop spoonfuls of the cheesecake filling over the banana batter.
- Gently swirl the cheesecake filling into the banana batter with a knife.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle chocolate chips on top. Let them melt for about 10 minutes, then spread the melted chocolate over the bar.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into squares.
