Chocolate Chip Banana Bars
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
These delightful Chocolate Chip Banana Bars are the ultimate treat for banana lovers! Soft, chewy, and loaded with chocolate chips, these bars make for the perfect snack or dessert. With simple ingredients and an easy preparation method, they’re great for satisfying your sweet tooth while utilizing overripe bananas. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature for a deliciously sweet bite any time of day.
These bars are a family favorite that brings back memories of baking in the kitchen with my grandmother. She always had extra ripe bananas on hand, which inspired me to create this delightful treat.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Chocolate Chip Banana Bars are an excellent choice for any event or gathering. Whether you’re hosting a birthday party, a family reunion, or just a casual get-together with friends, these bars are sure to impress. Their appealing texture and rich flavor will draw everyone in, and they're easy to make in large batches, making them perfect for serving groups.
These bars are not just for special occasions; they're also a fantastic everyday treat. Whip them up on a weekend and have them ready for school lunches, afternoon snacks, or an easy breakfast item. With their delicious combination of banana and chocolate, they provide a great way to fuel up for a busy day.
Great for Using Overripe Bananas
If you find yourself with a bunch of overripe bananas on your countertop, these Chocolate Chip Banana Bars are the ideal solution. Instead of tossing those brown bananas, transform them into a delightful treat that everyone will love. The natural sweetness of the bananas enhances the flavor and keeps the bars moist and delicious.
Using overripe bananas not only reduces waste in your kitchen, but it also means you don’t have to add as much sugar to the recipe. The bananas contribute natural sweetness and essential nutrients, making these bars a more wholesome dessert option that you can feel good about enjoying.
Easy to Customize
One of the best aspects of Chocolate Chip Banana Bars is how easily they can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Want to add a nutty crunch? Consider mixing in some walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor. For those who enjoy a little spice, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to elevate the flavor profile.
Another fun twist is to incorporate other chocolate treats. Mix in white chocolate chips, dark chocolate chunks, or even a dollop of peanut butter to create a unique flavor experience. The possibilities are endless, making these bars a versatile addition to your baking repertoire.
Ingredients
For the Bars
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Mix all ingredients well and pour into a greased pan.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the Batter
In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas with melted butter. Then mix in sugar, egg, and vanilla. Stir in baking soda and salt. Finally, add the flour and chocolate chips.
Bake
Pour the batter into a greased baking pan and bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let them cool before cutting into bars.
Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Chip Banana Bars!
Storage Tips
To keep your Chocolate Chip Banana Bars fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This helps to maintain their soft, chewy texture while preventing them from drying out. If you plan to keep them for an extended period, consider refrigerating them to prolong their shelf life.
You can also freeze these bars for up to three months. Simply cut the cooled bars into squares, wrap them individually in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you're ready to enjoy, just thaw them at room temperature or warm them up quickly in the microwave for that fresh-from-the-oven experience.
Nutritional Information
While indulging in Chocolate Chip Banana Bars is a treat, it’s nice to know a little about their nutritional content. Bananas are packed with potassium, vitamin C, and fiber, making them a healthier option compared to many other desserts. However, moderation is key, as they also contain sugar and calories due to added ingredients.
A typical bar contains around 200 calories, depending on portion size and specific ingredients. If you’re looking for a slightly healthier version, you can consider using whole wheat flour and reducing the sugar slightly, which still maintains great flavor while providing more nutrients.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Chocolate Chip Banana Bars warm, drizzled with a little honey or melted chocolate for an extra touch of sweetness. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a satisfying dessert that feels indulgent yet comforting.
For a delightful breakfast option, enjoy them alongside a cup of coffee or tea, or top them with Greek yogurt and fresh fruit for a balanced meal. The versatility of these bars makes them suitable for any time of day, whether you're seeking a sweet snack or enjoyed as part of a hearty meal.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain excess liquid before mashing.
→ What can I substitute for sugar?
You can use brown sugar or coconut sugar for a different flavor.
Chocolate Chip Banana Bars
These delightful Chocolate Chip Banana Bars are the ultimate treat for banana lovers! Soft, chewy, and loaded with chocolate chips, these bars make for the perfect snack or dessert. With simple ingredients and an easy preparation method, they’re great for satisfying your sweet tooth while utilizing overripe bananas. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature for a deliciously sweet bite any time of day.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 12 bars
What You'll Need
For the Bars
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chocolate chips
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas with melted butter. Then mix in sugar, egg, and vanilla. Stir in baking soda and salt. Finally, add the flour and chocolate chips.
Pour the batter into a greased baking pan and bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let them cool before cutting into bars.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 2g