Chocolate Chip Banana Bars Recipe

Chocolate chip banana bars are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of ripe bananas and rich chocolate chips into a moist, chewy bar. This Chocolate Chip Banana Bars Recipe is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack. They’re easy to whip up and make for an excellent alternative to traditional banana bread. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving something sweet, these bars satisfy every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These bars can be made in just 45 minutes, making them a perfect last-minute treat.
• Versatile Snack: Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon pick-me-up.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of bananas and chocolate creates a rich, satisfying flavor profile.
• Kid-Friendly: These bars are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Great Storage: They stay fresh for several days, so you can enjoy them throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your chocolate chip banana bars, gather your tools for a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Flexible spatula
• 8×8 inch (20 cm) baking pan
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without spills.
• Flexible spatula: Helps in spreading the batter evenly in the pan.
• 8×8 inch baking pan: The perfect size for achieving the right thickness in your bars.
• Parchment paper: Makes it easy to lift the baked bars out of the pan without sticking.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter
– 1 cup (120 g) all purpose flour
– ½ teaspoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ¾ cup (150 g) light brown sugar
– 1 large egg, room temperature
– 1 cup mashed bananas (about 2 medium bananas)
– 2 teaspoons (10 ml) vanilla extract
– ¾ cup (128 g) mini chocolate chips, divided

How to Make Chocolate Chip Banana Bars Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350 F (177 C). Line an 8×8 (20 cm) pan with parchment paper along the bottom and two sides.

Step 2: Melt the Butter

Place the butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Melt the butter in the microwave for about one minute. Stir it, and if needed, heat again for another 15 seconds. Cool the melted butter for about 10 – 15 minutes until it’s warm but not hot.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled butter with light brown sugar using a whisk. Next, whisk in the egg, mashed bananas, and vanilla extract until smooth. It’s okay if it looks slightly curdled; it will come together when mixed with dry ingredients.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. It’s best to do this in two parts. Then fold in half of the mini chocolate chips while reserving some for topping later.

Step 6: Prepare for Baking

Smooth the banana batter into your prepared pan using a flexible spatula. If desired, top with more mini chocolate chips before baking.

Step 7: Bake

Bake your chocolate chip banana bars for about 30 – 35 minutes. They are done when the sides are firm and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Allow your buttery banana chocolate bars to cool in the pan until they reach room temperature. Use parchment paper to lift them out easily from the pan. Slice into squares and enjoy!

How to Serve Chocolate Chip Banana Bars Recipe

Chocolate chip banana bars are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, these bars are sure to please. Here are some delicious serving suggestions.

With Fresh Fruit

• Sliced Bananas: Top your banana bars with fresh banana slices for an extra dose of flavor.
• Berries: Add a handful of strawberries or blueberries for a refreshing contrast and a pop of color.

With Whipped Cream

• Homemade Whipped Cream: Serve the bars with a dollop of whipped cream for a light and fluffy touch.
• Coconut Whipped Cream: For a dairy-free option, use coconut whipped cream to enhance the tropical flavors.

As a Breakfast Treat

• Coffee Pairing: Enjoy these bars alongside your morning coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast option.
• Yogurt Side: Serve with a side of yogurt for added protein and creaminess.

Warmed Up

• Microwave Option: Heat the bars in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy them warm and gooey.
• Serve with Ice Cream: For an indulgent dessert, top warmed bars with vanilla ice cream.

How to Perfect Chocolate Chip Banana Bars Recipe

To achieve the perfect chocolate chip banana bars, consider these helpful tips. Small adjustments can lead to delightful results.

• Use Ripe Bananas: Use overripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture in your bars. The browner, the better!
• Don’t Overmix: Gently fold in dry ingredients to prevent tough bars. Overmixing can lead to dense texture.
• Check Doneness Early: Start checking your bars at 30 minutes to avoid overbaking. They should be firm but not dry.
• Cool Completely Before Cutting: Allow the bars to cool fully before slicing to achieve cleaner cuts and prevent crumbling.

Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Chip Banana Bars Recipe

Pair your chocolate chip banana bars with these delightful side dishes for an enhanced experience. Each option complements the sweetness of the bars beautifully.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the banana bars.
2. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and berries for a nutritious addition that pairs well with the bars.
3. Nut Butter Spread: A dollop of almond or peanut butter on top adds healthy fats and protein.
4. Chia Seed Pudding: This creamy side dish offers additional fiber and nutrients, making it a great match.
5. Oatmeal Cookies: Enjoy these chewy cookies as a complementary sweet treat that matches well with banana flavors.
6. Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea offers soothing flavors that nicely complement the rich taste of banana and chocolate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making chocolate chip banana bars can be easy, but there are some common pitfalls to watch for.

• Skipping the Butter Cooling Step: If you add hot melted butter to your batter, it can cook the egg and affect the texture. Always let your butter cool slightly before mixing.
• Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can lead to dense bars instead of light and fluffy ones. Mix just until combined to keep them tender.
• Not Measuring Bananas Accurately: Using too much or too little banana can change the moisture level. Measure your mashed bananas carefully for perfect results.
• Ignoring Baking Time: Every oven is different. Check for doneness a few minutes early to avoid overbaking and drying out your bars.
• Forgetting to Reserve Chocolate Chips: Reserve some chocolate chips for topping! This adds a delightful visual appeal and extra sweetness on top.
• Cutting Bars Too Soon: Allowing the bars to cool completely in the pan helps them set properly. Cutting too soon can result in crumbling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Chocolate Chip Banana Bars Recipe

• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Chocolate Chip Banana Bars Recipe

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in 15-second intervals until warm. Be careful not to overheat, as they can become tough.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making these delicious chocolate chip banana bars, you’re not alone!

Can I use ripe bananas for this recipe?

Ripe bananas are ideal as they provide natural sweetness and moisture, enhancing flavor and texture.

How do I know when my bars are done baking?

The edges will firm up, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few crumbs.

Can I customize my Chocolate Chip Banana Bars Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, swap chocolate chips for dried fruit, or even sprinkle some spices like cinnamon for added flavor.

What is the best way to store leftover chocolate chip banana bars?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Can I make these vegan?

You can substitute the egg with flaxseed meal mixed with water or use applesauce as an egg replacement.

Final Thoughts

These chocolate chip banana bars are not only moist and flavorful but also versatile! Perfect as a breakfast treat or satisfying dessert, you can customize them with your favorite ingredients. Give this Chocolate Chip Banana Bars Recipe a try; you’ll love how easy they are to make!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Chocolate Chip Banana Bars

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• Author: Lucille
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful experience of homemade Chocolate Chip Banana Bars, a moist and chewy treat that perfectly marries the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with rich chocolate chips. Ideal for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack, these bars are not only easy to prepare but also a fantastic alternative to traditional banana bread. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create these delicious bars in under an hour. Perfect for both kids and adults alike, they remain fresh for days, making them a convenient and satisfying option for your sweet cravings.

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Ingredients

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• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup light brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup mashed bananas (about 2 medium)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• ¾ cup mini chocolate chips, divided

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper.
2. Melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl and let it cool slightly.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Combine the cooled butter with brown sugar in a large bowl; mix in egg, mashed bananas, and vanilla until smooth.
5. Stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined; fold in half of the chocolate chips.
6. Spread the batter into the prepared pan and sprinkle with remaining chocolate chips.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Allow to cool before lifting out and slicing into squares.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 200
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 110mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 25mg