Banana Chocolate Chip Bars
Soft, chewy, and bursting with sweet banana flavor, these Banana Chocolate Chip Bars are a delicious way to use up ripe bananas. With gooey chocolate chips in every bite, this easy dessert comes together in no time and is perfect for a snack, dessert, or even breakfast on the go. These bars are sure to become a family favorite!
Necessary Kitchen Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer (optional)
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Parchment paper or non-stick spray
- Spatula
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it with non-stick spray.
Make the Batter:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and brown sugar until smooth.
- Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and mashed bananas, and mix until fully combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Fold in the chocolate chips, reserving a few for sprinkling on top.
Bake the Bars:
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Sprinkle the reserved chocolate chips over the top.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs.
Cool and Serve:
- Allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Cool completely on a wire rack before cutting into squares.
Recipe Tips
- Banana Ripeness: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bars will be.
- Customize: Add chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or dried fruit for extra texture.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
What to Serve with Banana Chocolate Chip Bars
Pair with a glass of milk, coffee, or tea for a comforting treat. For dessert, top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I freeze these bars?
Yes! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, place in a freezer-safe bag, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
2. Can I use milk or dark chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Use your favorite type of chocolate chips, or even a mix of different kinds.
3. Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour for a gluten-free version.
Soft, sweet, and studded with chocolate chips, these Banana Chocolate Chip Bars are the ultimate treat for any occasion!
Banana Chocolate Chip Bars
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer (optional)
- 9x13 inch baking pan
- Parchment paper or non-stick spray
- Spatula
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 cup brown sugar packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 ripe bananas mashed
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it with non-stick spray.
- Make the Batter:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and brown sugar until smooth.
- Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and mashed bananas, and mix until fully combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Fold in the chocolate chips, reserving a few for sprinkling on top.
- Bake the Bars:
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Sprinkle the reserved chocolate chips over the top.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs.