Banana Chocolate Chip Bars

Description

Banana Chocolate Chip Bars

These banana chocolate chip bars are like the perfect mix of banana bread and blondies, with a hint of fudgy brownie texture. Made with overripe bananas, they’re not only delicious but almost healthy, too! Whether you make them by hand or with a mixer, they’re sure to be a hit.

1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
1 cup light brown sugar, packed
1 large egg
1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp fine salt
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup mashed overripe banana (about 2 bananas)
3/4 cup chocolate chips, chopped

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8-inch baking dish.
2. Cream together butter and sugar. Add egg, vanilla, and salt.
3. Mix in flour, followed by mashed banana and chocolate chips.
4. Pour into the pan and bake for 33-37 mins.
5. Let cool, then cut into squares.

Prep Time: 10 mins
Kcal: 193 per bar

Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these detailed instructions for perfect bars every time.

1. Prepare Pan & Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal.
2. Cream Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the room-temperature butter and packed brown sugar for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy.
3. Add Egg & Flavorings: Beat in the large egg, vanilla extract, and fine salt until fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
4. Incorporate Dry & Wet: Add the all-purpose flour and mix on low speed just until no white streaks remain. Gently fold in the mashed banana with a spatula until the batter is uniform.
5. Add Chocolate: Fold in the chocolate chips. For better distribution, chop the chips slightly before adding.
6. Bake: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 33-37 minutes. The bars are done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter).
7. Cool Completely: Let the bars cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 1 hour. Use the parchment paper to lift them out before cutting into squares.

Serving Suggestions

These versatile bars are delicious on their own but can be elevated for any occasion.

• Serve slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
• Pack them in lunchboxes for a sweet, satisfying treat.
• Enjoy with a morning coffee or afternoon tea as a perfect snack.
• For a festive touch, drizzle with melted peanut butter or a simple powdered sugar glaze.

How-to Summary

In short: Cream butter and sugar, mix in remaining ingredients, fold in chocolate chips, bake at 350°F for 33-37 minutes, and cool completely before slicing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen bananas? Yes. Thaw frozen bananas completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing and measuring.

Can I make these gluten-free? Absolutely. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for reliable results.

Why are my bars too dense or gummy? This is often caused by over-mixing the batter after adding the flour, which develops too much gluten. Mix just until combined.

How should I store them? Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They also freeze well for up to 3 months.

Can I use milk or dark chocolate chips? Yes, any chocolate chip variety works. Chopping them ensures a better distribution of chocolate flavor throughout each bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using Cold Butter: Butter must be at room temperature to cream properly with the sugar and create a light texture.
• Over-mixing the Batter: Once the flour is added, mix only until just combined to avoid tough bars.
• Under-ripe Bananas: Use bananas with plenty of brown spots for maximum sweetness and moisture.
• Cutting While Warm: The bars need time to set. Cutting too soon will cause them to fall apart.
• Over-baking: Check a few minutes before the timer. The bars continue to cook as they cool in the pan.

Conclusion

These banana chocolate chip bars are the ultimate easy treat, combining the comforting flavors of banana bread with the indulgence of a chewy, chocolatey dessert. By following this enhanced guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’re guaranteed a perfect batch every time. They’re a fantastic way to use up overripe bananas and are sure to become a household favorite.