Decadent Banana Chocolate Chip Bars

Looking for a sweet, comforting treat that’s quick to make and impossible to resist? These Decadent Banana Chocolate Chip Bars are the answer. Moist, tender, and bursting with chocolatey goodness, they’re the perfect way to use up ripe bananas while satisfying your sweet tooth. Whether you’re serving them as an after-school snack, a cozy dessert, or a treat with coffee, these bars are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Moist and chewy from ripe bananas.
• Loaded with chocolate chips for every bite.
• Easy and quick to make, perfect for weeknight baking.
• Customizable—add nuts, cinnamon, or extra chocolate.
• Kid- and family-friendly, great for lunchboxes or dessert tables.

Ingredients

For the Bars

• Ripe bananas (2, mashed): Naturally sweet and adds moist, tender texture.
• Unsalted butter, melted (1/2 cup): Adds richness and flavor.
• Brown sugar (3/4 cup, packed): Deep, caramel-like sweetness.
• Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Balances sweetness and texture.
• Large egg (1): Binds ingredients together.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances all the flavors.
• All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups): Structure for the bars.
• Baking soda (1/2 tsp): Helps the bars rise.
• Salt (1/2 tsp): Balances sweetness.
• Ground cinnamon (1/2 tsp, optional): Adds warm, aromatic notes.
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips (3/4 cup): For pockets of melty chocolate in every bite.

Optional Topping

• Additional chocolate chips (1/4 cup)
• Powdered sugar for dusting

How to Make Decadent Banana Chocolate Chip Bars

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it for easy removal.

2. Prepare the Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well to combine.

3. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using).
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the banana mixture until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the bars tender.

4. Add Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in chocolate chips, reserving a small handful to sprinkle on top before baking.

5. Bake the Bars

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
Sprinkle remaining chocolate chips on top.
Bake for 22–26 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.

6. Cool and Serve

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.
Dust lightly with powdered sugar if desired, and serve as a dessert, snack, or sweet breakfast treat.

Tips for Success

• Use very ripe bananas—they’re sweeter and create a moister bar.
• Do not overmix once flour is added to prevent dense bars.
• Cool completely before slicing to ensure clean edges.
• Customize by adding walnuts, pecans, or even a swirl of peanut butter.
• Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for 3–4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.

Equipment Needed

• 8×8-inch baking pan
• Parchment paper or nonstick spray
• Large mixing bowl
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk and spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Recipe Variations

• Nutty Banana Chocolate Chip Bars: Fold in 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans.
• Peanut Butter Banana Bars: Add 1/4 cup peanut butter to the batter for a nutty twist.
• Banana Oat Chocolate Bars: Replace 1/2 cup flour with rolled oats for texture.
• Double Chocolate Banana Bars: Add 2 tbsp cocoa powder to the batter for extra chocolate flavor.
• Cinnamon Swirl Bars: Swirl in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar for extra warmth.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.
• Serve with coffee or milk for a comforting snack.
• Cut into smaller squares for lunchboxes or party platters.
• Top with a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce for extra indulgence.

FAQs

Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, thaw them completely and drain excess liquid before mashing.

Can these bars be made gluten-free?

Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend in a 1:1 ratio.

How do I prevent bars from being too mushy?

Make sure bananas are ripe but not overly watery, and avoid overmixing after adding flour.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Absolutely! Walnuts, pecans, or even dried fruit work well.

How long do these bars last?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3–4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.

Print

Final Thoughts

These Decadent Banana Chocolate Chip Bars are simple to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Their moist texture, rich chocolate pockets, and naturally sweet banana base make them irresistible. Whip up a batch today, and watch them disappear in no time!