Banana Chocolate Chip Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Banana Chocolate Chip Bars are a moist and flavorful treat that perfectly combines ripe bananas with melty chocolate chips. These bars are ideal for breakfast, dessert, or a quick snack, and are especially great for using up overripe bananas. With their soft, cake-like texture and irresistible flavor, they’re a hit with both kids and adults.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ripe bananasall-purpose flourbrown sugarsalted buttereggsvanilla extractbaking sodasaltchocolate chips

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.

Add the melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined.

Fold in the chocolate chips.

Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Allow to cool completely before slicing into bars.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 20 bars.Preparation time: 10 minutesBaking time: 25-30 minutesCooling time: 20 minutesTotal time: 55-60 minutes

Variations

Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a nutty crunch.

Swap chocolate chips for white chocolate or peanut butter chips.

Incorporate a swirl of peanut butter or Nutella into the batter before baking.

Top with a light cream cheese frosting for added richness.

storage/reheating

Store Banana Chocolate Chip Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.Refrigerate for up to 7 days or freeze for up to 2 months.To enjoy warm, microwave individual bars for about 10 seconds.

FAQs

Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, thawed frozen bananas work well. Be sure to drain any excess liquid.

Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, but it may make the bars denser. Consider using half all-purpose and half whole wheat flour.

Are these bars very sweet?

They are moderately sweet, balanced by the natural sugars in bananas and the chocolate chips.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free version.

What type of chocolate chips are best?

Semi-sweet chocolate chips are classic, but milk or dark chocolate can be used based on preference.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply use a larger pan or bake in two batches.

Do I need to refrigerate them?

Only if storing for more than a few days, otherwise room temperature is fine.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Use dairy-free butter and chocolate chips to make it suitable for dairy-free diets.

Can I add spices?

Yes, cinnamon or nutmeg adds a warm, cozy flavor.

Why are my bars too dense?

Overmixing the batter or using underripe bananas can lead to denser bars.

Conclusion

Banana Chocolate Chip Bars are a delightful way to enjoy the comforting flavors of banana bread with the added indulgence of chocolate chips. They’re easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a quick breakfast, packed in lunchboxes, or shared at gatherings, these bars are sure to become a favorite.

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