Vegan Strawberries & Cream Banana Bread Bars with Strawberry Buttercream Frosting

Dive into the delectable world of Vegan Strawberries & Cream Banana Bread Bars, a perfect blend of ripe bananas and fresh strawberries, topped with a luscious strawberry buttercream frosting. These bars offer a delightful twist on traditional banana bread, incorporating vegan and gluten-free ingredients that don’t skimp on flavor. With their moist texture, fruity bursts, and creamy frosting, these bars are sure to satisfy both vegan and non-vegan sweet tooths alike.

Why You’ll Love This:

These banana bread bars are not only vegan and gluten-free but also packed with the natural sweetness of fruits and the richness of vegan buttercream, making them a guilt-free treat that’s hard to resist. The addition of strawberry-flavored non-dairy yogurt and fresh strawberries provides a refreshing flavor that complements the banana base beautifully. These bars are perfect for anyone looking for a healthier dessert option that still tastes indulgent.

Perfect Occasion:

Ideal for brunches, afternoon tea, or as a sweet treat after a meal, these bars can be enjoyed on any occasion. They’re also perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or as a thoughtful homemade gift. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply treating yourself, these banana bread bars are a crowd-pleaser.

Decoration Tips:

For a festive and appealing look, garnish the frosting with additional slices of fresh strawberries or a sprinkle of crushed freeze-dried strawberries for added color and texture. Edible flowers or a light dusting of cinnamon can also enhance the visual appeal and add a touch of elegance.

Ingredients:

• For the Banana Bread Bars:
  • 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
  • 1/3 cup vegan butter, melted
  • 1/3 cup maple syrup
  • 3 tbsp non-dairy yogurt (strawberry flavor preferred)
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup gluten-free flour blend
  • 1/2 cup almond flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/3 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
• For the Vegan Strawberry Buttercream:
  • 1/2 stick vegan butter, softened
  • 3 tbsp non-dairy cream cheese
  • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tbsp non-dairy milk
  • 1/3 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Bars:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a brownie tin.
   • In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, melted vegan butter, maple syrup, non-dairy yogurt, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
   • Stir in gluten-free flour, almond flour, baking powder, sea salt, and cinnamon until well combined.
   • Fold in chopped strawberries.
   • Transfer the batter to the prepared pan and spread evenly.
   • Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   • Allow to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
2. Make the Frosting:
   • In a bowl, beat the softened vegan butter with a hand mixer until smooth.
   • Add non-dairy cream cheese and continue to beat until well combined.
   • Gradually add powdered sugar and non-dairy milk in increments, beating until the frosting is smooth and thick.
   • Gently fold in the crushed freeze-dried strawberries.
3. Assemble and Serve:
   • Spread the strawberry buttercream frosting over the cooled banana bread bars.
   • Cut into squares and serve.

Enjoy these Vegan Strawberries & Cream Banana Bread Bars as a delightful treat that brings a taste of summer to your table, any time of the year!