Introduction
Banana nut bars are a delicious and comforting treat that is perfect for any occasion. Combining the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the crunch of walnuts and a luxurious cream cheese frosting, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Easy to make and delightful to eat, these bars are a fantastic way to use up overripe bananas.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
3 medium ripe bananas
1 cup granulated sugar
⅓ cup vegetable oil
2 eggs
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon salt
¾ cup crushed walnuts
Cream Cheese Frosting:
3 ounces cream cheese, softened
5 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups powdered sugar
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Yield: Approximately 12-16 bars
Enjoy making these delectable banana nut bars and share them with family and friends for a delightful dessert experience!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it with non-stick spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Banana Mixture
In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of granulated sugar, 3 medium ripe bananas (mashed), ⅓ cup of vegetable oil, and 2 eggs. Stir the mixture until it is smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
Gradually add 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon of salt to the banana mixture. Mix until everything is well combined. Gently fold in ½ cup of crushed walnuts.
Step 4: Bake the Bars
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once done, allow the bars to cool completely before applying frosting.
Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
In a large bowl, beat together 3 ounces of softened cream cheese, 5 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.
Step 6: Add Powdered Sugar
Gradually add 2 cups of powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture, mixing until it forms a thick frosting.
Step 7: Frost the Bars
Once the banana nut bars are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of crushed walnuts on top of the frosting.
Step 8: Serve
Cut the frosted banana nut bars into squares or rectangles and serve.
Notes
Storage
Cover and store the banana nut bars in the refrigerator due to the cream cheese frosting to maintain freshness.
Cook Techniques
Mashing Bananas
To achieve a smooth texture in your batter, use a fork or potato masher to thoroughly mash the ripe bananas until there are no lumps remaining. This will help integrate the bananas evenly into the mixture.
Mixing Ingredients
When combining the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt) with the wet ingredients (sugar, bananas, oil, and eggs), mix until just combined. Over-mixing can result in dense bars, so it’s important to stop as soon as no dry flour is visible.
Folding in Walnuts
To preserve the airiness of the batter, gently fold in the crushed walnuts using a spatula. This technique prevents the walnuts from sinking to the bottom while keeping the batter light.
Baking
Bake the banana nut bars in a preheated oven until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the baking time, as ovens may vary, and baking too long can dry out the bars.
Frosting Preparation
Ensure that both the cream cheese and unsalted butter are softened to room temperature before mixing. This will help achieve a smooth and creamy frosting without lumps.
Storage
After the banana nut bars are frosted, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cream cheese frosting requires refrigeration to maintain its freshness.
FAQ
Can I substitute the vegetable oil with another type of oil?
Yes, you can use melted coconut oil, canola oil, or even applesauce for a healthier option, though the texture may vary slightly.
What can I use instead of eggs in this recipe?
You can replace each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce, 1/4 cup of mashed banana, or a flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water).
How can I make these bars gluten-free?
To make the banana nut bars gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
How long will the banana nut bars last in the refrigerator?
The bars can last up to 5-7 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container.
Can I freeze the banana nut bars?
Yes, you can freeze the bars. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Conclusion
These banana nut bars, topped with creamy frosting, provide a delightful treat that perfectly balances sweetness and texture. The combination of ripe bananas and walnuts ensures a rich flavor profile, making them a favorite for any occasion. Enjoy them as a sweet snack or dessert, and feel free to explore creative variations to suit your taste.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chocolate Chip Banana Bars
Add 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to the banana mixture before baking for a rich and indulgent twist.
Coconut Banana Bars
Incorporate ¾ cup of shredded coconut into the batter for a tropical flair that complements the bananas beautifully.
Peanut Butter Swirls
Swirl in ½ cup of creamy peanut butter into the banana batter before baking for a nutty, rich combination.
Maple Pecan Bars
Substitute crushed walnuts with pecans and add ½ cup of maple syrup to the batter for a sweet, nutty variation.
Nut-Free Version
Omit the walnuts entirely and add ½ cup of dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for a nutritious, flavorful alternative.
