Chocolate Chip Banana Bars
Chocolate Chip Banana Bars are the perfect blend of sweet bananas and melty chocolate chips, baked into soft and chewy squares. These bars are an excellent way to use overripe bananas, offering a quick and easy dessert or snack. Not overly sweet, they strike the ideal balance between indulgence and wholesome goodness. Whether you need a lunchbox treat, a coffee companion, or a simple dessert, these bars are sure to please everyone.
- 3 medium overripe bananas mashed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted and slightly cooled
- 1 cup light brown sugar packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips plus extra for topping, if desired
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or grease it with nonstick spray.
Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, melted butter, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and egg until smooth and well combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula. Stir until just combined—do not overmix.
Add Chocolate Chips:
Gently fold in the chocolate chips, reserving a few for sprinkling on top.
Pour and Bake:
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the reserved chocolate chips on top. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Cool and Serve:
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.