Description
These Frozen Banana Dessert Bars are a creamy, no-bake treat perfect for hot days or anytime you crave a cool, sweet snack. Featuring a graham cracker crust, a fresh banana layer, and a rich whipped cream cheese topping, they are finished with a drizzle of chocolate syrup and crunchy nuts for added texture and flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
For the crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the banana layer:
- 4 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
For the cream layer:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped to stiff peaks
For the topping:
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1/2 cup chocolate syrup
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared dish to form an even crust. Place the dish in the freezer for 10 minutes to set.
- Add the banana layer: In a separate bowl, mash the ripe bananas and stir in the lemon juice to prevent browning. Spread this banana mixture evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust.
- Make the cream layer: In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth and creamy. Stir in the vanilla extract. Gently fold the whipped heavy cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined, taking care not to deflate the whipped cream. Spread this cream layer evenly over the banana layer.
- Finish with toppings: Drizzle chocolate syrup over the cream layer and sprinkle with the chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
- Freeze to set: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until the bars are firm. Before slicing, let the dessert sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to soften slightly for easier cutting.
Notes
- For easier slicing, run a knife under warm water before cutting each piece.
- You can substitute the nuts with mini chocolate chips if preferred or omit them completely for a nut-free version.
- Use very ripe bananas for the best natural sweetness and flavor.
- These bars can be stored in the freezer for up to one week for optimal freshness.
