Ingredients
Batter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted, then cooled slightly)
- 1 cup white sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 3 eggs
- 1 1/2 cups banana puree (about 3-4 ripe bananas)
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups gluten free all purpose baking flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Maple Frosting
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 8 ounces plain cream cheese (room temperature)
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1-2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for even baking.
- Prepare Baking Pan: Grease and line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper and set aside to prevent sticking.
- Mix Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted and slightly cooled butter with white and brown sugars until well combined and smooth.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Whisk in the eggs one at a time, then add the banana puree, Greek yogurt, and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly to incorporate all wet ingredients.
- Add Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add this dry mix to the wet mixture, whisking until smooth and free of lumps.
- Pour Batter and Bake: Transfer the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 34-38 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Bars: Allow the banana bread bars to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then remove from the pan by flipping onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Maple Frosting: While the bars are cooling, beat the room temperature butter and cream cheese together in a mixing bowl or stand mixer for about 1 minute until smooth and creamy.
- Add Powdered Sugar and Maple: Gradually beat in the powdered sugar, then add the maple syrup and cinnamon. Mix well. Add heavy cream one tablespoon at a time until reaching your desired frosting consistency.
- Frost and Serve: Once the banana bread bars are fully cooled, spread the maple frosting evenly over the top. Optionally, garnish with crushed walnuts and banana slices. Slice into bars and enjoy!
Notes
- For banana puree, mash ripe bananas until smooth using a fork or blender.
- Ensure butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for smooth frosting.
- Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Allow bars to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting the frosting.
- You can add chopped walnuts or chocolate chips to the batter for extra texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 38 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Snack, Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free