Chocolate Chip Banana Bars

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Chocolate Chip Banana Bars are everything you want in a treat: soft, chewy, loaded with melty chocolate chips, and packed with sweet banana flavor. They’re that perfect cross between banana bread and a cookie bar, and they come together in one bowl—no mixer needed. These bars are golden on the edges, plush in the center, and practically irresistible warm from the oven.

Whether you have overripe bananas sitting on the counter or just want an easy dessert that satisfies a crowd, this recipe is your go-to. It’s simple, adaptable, and makes a great lunchbox treat or after-dinner indulgence. Bonus: it freezes beautifully, so you can always have some on hand for sweet cravings.

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What Kind of Bananas Are Best for Chocolate Chip Banana Bars?

The riper, the better. You want bananas with lots of brown spots or even fully browned skins. These bring maximum sweetness and moisture to the bars, enhancing their rich banana flavor and giving them the ideal soft texture.

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Ingredients for the Chocolate Chip Banana Bars

Bananas – Overripe bananas bring natural sweetness and moisture.

Butter – Melted for ease, it adds richness and keeps the bars tender.

Brown Sugar – Deepens the flavor with hints of caramel and molasses.

Egg – Binds everything together and helps create that chewy texture.

Vanilla Extract – Enhances the banana and chocolate flavors.

All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure while keeping the bars soft.

Baking Soda – Provides lift and a tender crumb.

Salt – Balances the sweetness and brings out all the flavors.

Chocolate Chips – Semi-sweet chips melt beautifully and give rich chocolatey bites throughout.

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How To Make the Chocolate Chip Banana Bars

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it. In a small bowl, mash the bananas until smooth and set aside.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, stir together the melted butter and brown sugar until combined. Add the mashed bananas, egg, and vanilla extract. Whisk until everything is smooth and well blended.

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients

Sprinkle the flour, baking soda, and salt over the wet mixture. Stir just until incorporated. Be careful not to overmix—this keeps the bars tender.

Step 4: Fold in Chocolate Chips

Reserve a handful of chocolate chips for topping and fold the rest into the batter. This ensures even chocolatey goodness in every bite.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. 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.

Step 6: Cool and Slice

Let the bars cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes before lifting them out using the parchment. Slice into squares and enjoy warm or at room temperature.

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How to Serve and Store Chocolate Chip Banana Bars

Serve these bars slightly warm with a dusting of powdered sugar or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. They’re also perfect as-is with a hot cup of coffee or milk for a cozy snack.

To store, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To freeze, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Just microwave for 15-20 seconds to reheat.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What if I only have two bananas?

Two bananas will still work! The bars will be slightly less moist, but still delicious. You can add a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or applesauce to compensate if desired.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but it will give the bars a denser texture. Consider using half whole wheat and half all-purpose for balance.

Are these bars gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make them gluten-free. Check that your other ingredients are certified gluten-free as well.

Can I add nuts?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans are a great addition and add a lovely crunch. Stir in about 1/2 cup with the chocolate chips.

Do I have to use semi-sweet chocolate chips?

Nope! Milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even chocolate chunks or mini chips will all work just fine.

How do I know when they’re done baking?

The bars should be golden on top, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out with moist crumbs—not raw batter.

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Want More Dessert Bar Ideas?

If you love these Chocolate Chip Banana Bars, you’ll definitely want to check out these other sweet treats:

• Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs for a rich, indulgent layered bite.
• Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats if you’re craving caramel meets crispy.
• Lemon Sugar Cookies for something bright and chewy.
• Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake when you want buttery richness with a hint of salt.
• Peach Cheesecake Cupcakes if you’re into fruity and creamy flavor combinations.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you toss in extra chocolate chips? Try them with peanut butter? Maybe a sprinkle of cinnamon?

I love hearing how you make these your own. Don’t be shy—share your twist and let’s inspire each other in the kitchen!

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