Go Back

Banana Chocolate Chip Bars

These Banana Chocolate Chip Bars combine the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with gooey chocolate chips, creating a comforting and easy-to-make treat perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 16 bars
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

For the batter
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, melted Use high-quality butter for the best taste.
  • 2 cups brown sugar, lightly packed Adds moisture and richness.
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract Pure vanilla extract gives a more complex flavor.
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature For fluffier texture; let them sit out before baking.
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour Standard flour works beautifully here.
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt Enhances all the flavors.
  • 2 ripe bananas, mashed (about 2/3 cup) Use overripe bananas for the best sweetness and flavor.
  • 1.5 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips I recommend Ghirardelli for their rich flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). This step is crucial for even baking.
  2. Line a 9 by 13-inch baking dish with parchment paper and lightly spray it with nonstick cooking spray.
  3. In a large bowl, use a hand mixer to combine the melted butter and brown sugar on medium speed until fluffy and well combined (about 1-2 minutes).
  4. Lower the mixer speed and add the vanilla extract. Then, beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated. Don't over-mix.
  5. Gradually add the all-purpose flour and kosher salt, mixing until just combined.
  6. Gently fold in the mashed bananas and chocolate chips using a spatula.
  7. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Baking
  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  2. Let the bars cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Cut them into squares and enjoy.

Notes

Make sure your butter is melted but not too hot, and for fluffier bars, consider using room temperature eggs. Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.