If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings together the rich flavors of bananas, chocolate, and a hint of warmth from cinnamon, this Chocolate Chip Banana Bars Recipe is just what you need. These bars are moist, chewy, and bursting with natural sweetness thanks to ripe bananas and maple syrup, balanced perfectly with the hearty texture of oats and the gooey surprise of melty chocolate chips. Whether you want a quick snack, a wholesome breakfast option, or a crowd-pleasing dessert, these bars are simple to make and absolutely irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these ingredients is a breeze because they’re all staples that not only blend beautifully but each brings an essential element to the texture, flavor, and overall magic of this recipe.
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed: The natural sweetener and moisture base that makes the bars soft and tender.
- 1/2 cup peanut butter: Adds richness, protein, and a creamy depth that complements the bananas perfectly.
- 1/4 cup maple syrup: A natural sweetener that imparts subtle caramel notes without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Boosts the warm, sweet aroma and ties the flavors together.
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats: Provides structure and a chewy texture, making these bars feel wholesome and satisfying.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the bars rise slightly, keeping them light but sturdy.
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon: Offers a gentle spice that enhances the banana’s natural sweetness.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies all the other flavors.
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips: The star ingredient that melts into pockets of chocolatey goodness in every bite.
How to Make Chocolate Chip Banana Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking pan so your bars won’t stick and will come out perfectly formed. This step makes sure your bars have a flawless finish when baked.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, mash your ripe bananas until smooth. Then, stir in the peanut butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until everything is combined into a creamy, luscious mixture. This is where the base flavor foundation of your bars comes alive.
Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
Next, fold in the rolled oats, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until all the dry ingredients are well incorporated with the wet ingredients. This gives your bars the structure and that perfect chewy texture you’re aiming for.
Step 4: Fold in Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the chocolate chips to evenly distribute little bursts of sweet chocolate throughout your batter. This addition makes every bite feel like a mini celebration.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pour your batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly so it bakes uniformly. Pop it into the oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until the bars become golden brown and are set in the center. Your kitchen will smell absolutely heavenly at this point!
Step 6: Cool and Slice
Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing into 12 squares. Cooling helps them set perfectly, making them easier to cut and handle without crumbling.
How to Serve Chocolate Chip Banana Bars Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a few extra chocolate chips or chopped nuts like walnuts on top right before serving for an added crunch and visual appeal. A dusting of powdered sugar can also give them an elegant touch without stealing the spotlight from the vibrant banana and chocolate flavors.
Side Dishes
These bars pair wonderfully with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a cozy snack or dessert experience. For breakfast, consider serving alongside fresh fruit or a glass of cold milk to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking the bars with layers of peanut butter spread or drizzle some melted chocolate over the top for an indulgent twist. Wrapping individual bars in parchment paper or colorful wax paper makes them perfect for packed lunches or on-the-go treats.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chocolate Chip Banana Bars Recipe bars keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, keeping them in the fridge preserves freshness and maintains their texture beautifully.
Freezing
You can freeze these bars for up to 2 months. Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you want a quick sweet fix, just thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for an hour.
Reheating
To enjoy the bars warm, pop them in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or reheat gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes. Warm bars make the chocolate chips extra melty and the peanut butter even creamier.
FAQs
Can I substitute peanut butter with another nut butter?
Absolutely! Almond, cashew, or sunflower seed butter all work wonderfully and add their own unique flavor profile to the bars.
Are these bars gluten-free?
If you use certified gluten-free rolled oats, this recipe can easily be gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I add nuts or dried fruit?
Yes, chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans and dried fruits such as raisins or cranberries make excellent add-ins for extra texture and flavor.
How ripe should the bananas be?
For the best flavor and sweetness, use bananas that are very ripe with brown spots. They mash easily and bring maximum natural sweetness to the bars.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
This recipe is naturally vegan as long as you choose dairy-free chocolate chips and verify your maple syrup is pure and vegan-friendly.
Final Thoughts
This Chocolate Chip Banana Bars Recipe is truly a gem for anyone craving a comforting homemade treat that’s both wholesome and indulgent. It’s easy to whip up, packed with flavor, and perfect for any time of day. I encourage you to try making these bars—they’re guaranteed to bring a smile to your face and a little joy into your kitchen!
Print
Chocolate Chip Banana Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and wholesome Chocolate Chip Banana Bars made with ripe bananas, creamy peanut butter, and sweet maple syrup, blended with oats and melted with chocolate chips, perfect for a healthy snack or breakfast treat.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Add-ins
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas thoroughly and mix in the peanut butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Stir in the rolled oats, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt into the wet mixture, mixing until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold the chocolate chips into the batter to distribute them evenly without melting.
- Pour Batter into Pan: Transfer the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes until the bars turn golden brown and are set in the center.
- Cool and Slice: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing into 12 servings.
Notes
- Use very ripe bananas for sweeter and moister bars.
- Peanut butter adds protein and creaminess; alternatively, almond or cashew butter can be used.
- Maple syrup provides natural sweetness, but honey or agave syrup can be substituted.
- Make sure to cool completely to avoid bars falling apart when sliced.
- Store bars in an airtight container for up to 3 days or refrigerate for extended freshness.
