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Maple Frosted Banana Bread Bars Recipe

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3.9 from 12 reviews

Delightfully moist gluten-free banana bread bars topped with a rich maple cream cheese frosting. Perfectly spiced with cinnamon and sweetened with both white and brown sugar, these bars are a comforting treat ideal for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. The creamy maple frosting adds a luscious finish that complements the banana flavor beautifully.

  • Total Time: 53 minutes
  • Yield: 15 servings

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

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for even baking.
  2. Prepare Baking Pan: Grease and line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper and set aside to prevent sticking.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. 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.
  9. 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.
  10. 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.
  • Author: Amelia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 38 minutes
  • Category: Dessert, Snack, Breakfast
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free