Name: Irresistible Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Bars Everyone Loves
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 3 large ripe bananas (very ripe for best sweetness and moisture); 1/2 cup coconut oil (melted, refined for neutral flavor); 2 large eggs (or use flax eggs for a vegan option); 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup coconut sugar (or brown sugar); 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk); 1/4 cup maple syrup (or honey for non-vegan option); 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend); 1 tsp ground cinnamon (to taste); 1 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp baking soda (use fresh for best results); 1/2 tsp salt; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or dairy-free chips for variations)

The aroma of freshly baked goods wafts through the air as I pull a batch of Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Bars from the oven. There’s something magical about transforming ripe bananas into a delicious treat that’s not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to whip up. These bars are perfect for everything from breakfast on-the-go to healthy after-school snacks. Packed with chocolatey goodness, they are also vegetarian, dairy-free, and easily freezable, making them a versatile addition to any busy kitchen. Plus, who can resist a quick and healthy way to use those overripe bananas sitting on the counter? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe—your taste buds will thank you! Are you ready to bake some happiness?

Why Will You Love These Bars?

Deliciously Simple: With just a handful of ingredients, making these Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Bars is a breeze, even for novice bakers.

Kid-Friendly Treat: Your little ones will love the rich chocolate flavor, making these bars a perfect addition to lunchboxes or after-school snacks.

Nutritious Powerhouse: Packed with the natural sweetness of bananas and healthy fats from coconut oil, they are an energy-rich treat without the guilt.

Versatile Storage: These bars can be made ahead and stored in the freezer, so you’ll always have a delicious snack on hand. Check out our Banana Bread Moist recipe for more banana-based goodness!

Baked with Love: There’s just something heartwarming about the aroma of freshly baked bars, perfect for gatherings or cozy evenings at home. Get ready to bake a batch that everyone will adore!

Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Bars Ingredients

For the Bars
• Bananas – Use very ripe bananas for the best natural sweetness and moisture.
• Coconut Oil – Adds richness and moisture; refined coconut oil gives a neutral flavor.
• Eggs – Binds the mixture and helps with leavening; flax eggs can be a great vegan alternative.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor profile without the need for substitutions.
• Coconut Sugar – Provides a hint of caramel flavor; brown sugar can also be an alternative.
• Unsweetened Almond Milk – Keeps the bars dairy-free while adding moisture; any plant-based milk will work.
• Maple Syrup – Sweetens the bars naturally; for a non-vegan option, honey works well.
• All-Purpose Flour – Offers structure to the bars; a gluten-free flour blend is a suitable replacement.
• Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and depth; you can adjust to taste or omit if not preferred.
• Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent, helping the bars rise.
• Baking Soda – Ensures an even rise and nice texture; use fresh baking soda for the best results.
• Salt – Balances flavors and elevates sweetness.
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Adds that delicious chocolatey goodness; dark chocolate or dairy-free chips are perfect for variations.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, line or prepare granola bar molds by placing them on a baking sheet for easier handling. This setup will ensure that your Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Bars bake evenly and are easy to remove once finished.

Step 2: Mash the Bananas
In a large mixing bowl, take your ripe bananas and mash them until smooth using a fork or potato masher. Aim for a creamy consistency with minimal lumps, as this will help integrate the bananas into the batter. The bananas not only add sweetness but serve as the star ingredient in your delightful bars!

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
Next, add the melted coconut oil, eggs, coconut sugar, vanilla extract, unsweetened almond milk, and maple syrup into the mashed bananas. Mix everything together until you achieve a well-combined mixture, allowing the sweetness and flavors to meld seamlessly. This step will create a rich and moist base for your Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Bars.

Step 4: Mix in Dry Ingredients
Gradually introduce the dry ingredients—starting with all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir them into the wet mixture gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing; the goal is to maintain a soft batter with luscious chocolate pockets, ensuring your bars have the perfect chewy texture.

Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips with a spatula, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. This addition of chocolatey goodness is what makes these Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Bars so irresistible. Keep the mixing light to avoid breaking the chocolate chips apart.

Step 6: Portion the Batter
Using a 1/4 cup scoop, carefully pour the batter into the prepared molds. Fill each mold about three-quarters full to allow room for rising. This step ensures consistent sizing for each bar, resulting in perfectly portioned treats that are easy to grab and enjoy on the go.

Step 7: Bake the Bars
Place the filled baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You’ll know the Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Bars are ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, indicating a soft yet fully cooked treat.

Step 8: Cool and Serve
After baking, let the bars cool in their molds for about 10 minutes. Then, gently transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Allowing them to cool down helps set their structure and enhances their chewy texture, making them perfect for enjoying warm or at room temperature.

Make Ahead Options

These Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Bars are perfect for busy home cooks looking to make ahead! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix all the wet and dry ingredients, fold in the chocolate chips, and refrigerate the bowl covered with plastic wrap. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to bake, just scoop the batter into molds and pop them in the oven. If you prefer, you can bake the bars and then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Just reheat briefly in the microwave for that freshly-baked goodness!

Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Bars Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Bars! These delightful twists will elevate your baking experience and add a personal touch.

Nutty Boost: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor. The combination of chocolate and nuts makes for a satisfying snack!
Fruit Fusion: Substitute chocolate chips with dried cranberries or raisins for a fruity burst of sweetness. Each bite will offer a delightful surprise!
Nut Butter Swirl: Add a scoop of your favorite nut butter (like almond or peanut) into the batter for added richness. It creates a decadent swirl that everyone will love.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend. This allows gluten-sensitive friends to enjoy these scrumptious bars guilt-free!
Spicy Touch: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a hint of heat that beautifully contrasts the sweetness. It’s a surprising yet delicious flavor alternative!
Coconut Delight: Incorporate shredded coconut for an extra layer of flavor and texture. The tropical essence will transport you to paradise with every bite.
Double the Chocolate: Use dark chocolate chips or a mix of semi-sweet and dark. This will satisfy even the most ardent chocolate lovers and provide a richer taste.
Extra Cinnamon: Increase the ground cinnamon for a warm, cozy flavor profile that’s perfect for fall. You can even add a sprinkle of nutmeg for an aromatic finish.

Don’t forget to also check out our links for more delicious recipes like Chewy Chocolate Chip or explore our Vegan Chocolate Chip options for more variety!

Expert Tips for Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Bars

Choosing Bananas Wisely: Use very ripe bananas with plenty of brown spots to maximize sweetness and moisture. Avoid underripe bananas, as they won’t provide the same flavor.
Oil Options: If you prefer a milder taste, choose refined coconut oil. Extra virgin coconut oil has a stronger flavor that may overpower the bars.
Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense bars instead of the desired soft, chewy texture.
Chocolate Chip Selection: For richer flavor, opt for dark chocolate chips. If catering to dietary needs, look for dairy-free semi-sweet chocolate chips to maintain a vegan-friendly recipe.
Check Doneness: Use a toothpick to test for doneness. It should come out clean or with slight moist crumbs, indicating a perfect bake without being overcooked.
Storage Tips: To keep your Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for up to three months.

What to Serve with Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Bars

The perfect accompaniment can elevate your delightful bars into a memorable meal or snack experience.

Fresh Berries: Bright, tart berries like strawberries or blueberries add a refreshing contrast to the sweet, rich flavors of the bars.
Creamy Nut Butter: Swirling a dollop of almond or peanut butter adds protein and a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with chocolate and bananas.
Greek Yogurt: A scoop of yogurt brings a tangy creaminess that balances the sweetness while providing a nutritious boost.
Milk or Plant-Based Drink: A glass of cold milk or your favorite plant-based alternative is the classic drink pairing that enhances every bite.
Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and airy, this vegan topping adds an indulgent touch that complements the tropical notes of the coconut oil.
Melted Dark Chocolate: Drizzling warm dark chocolate on top allows you to indulge your sweet tooth even further, enhancing the chocolatey goodness.
Chia Seed Pudding: This healthy side offers a delightful textural contrast and can be flavored with vanilla to tie in with the bars.
Vanilla Ice Cream: For a decadent dessert experience, serve warm bars with a scoop of ice cream, creating a delightful warm-cold combination.

Storage Tips for Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Bars

Fridge: Store the bars in an airtight container for up to one week. This keeps them fresh while maintaining their soft and chewy texture.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap the bars individually in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. This makes it easy to grab a quick snack anytime!

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the bars at room temperature or reheat in the microwave for a few seconds to savor that freshly-baked flavor in your Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Bars.

Reheating: For an extra warm treat, microwave for 10-15 seconds. Enjoy as is or with a dollop of nut butter for an indulgent touch!

Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Bars Recipe FAQs

What kind of bananas should I use for the best results?
Absolutely! For the best sweetness and moisture, you should use very ripe bananas—those that are heavily speckled or even blackened. This ripeness ensures the natural sugars are maximized, giving your Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Bars that delicious taste and texture. If your bananas are not yet ripe, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a brown paper bag for a couple of days.

How should I store my Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Bars?
Very good question! To keep your bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. This method keeps them soft and chewy. You can also freeze them for up to three months—just wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Make sure to label the bag with the date so you know when they were made!

Can I freeze the Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Bars?
Yes, indeed! Freezing is a fantastic way to preserve these bars. After baking and cooling, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap or foil. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them at room temperature or heat them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a warm, freshly-baked treat.

What should I do if my bars turn out too dense?
If you find your bars are too dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter or using too much flour. Make sure to mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined. For lighter bars, try using a kitchen scale to measure your flour or spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off to avoid packing it down.

Are these bars suitable for people with allergies?
That’s a great consideration! These Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Bars are dairy-free, which is great for those lactose intolerant. However, if you or someone you’re serving has a nut allergy, be sure to use alternative non-dairy milk that is nut-free, like oat milk. Always read labels on chocolate chips to ensure they comply with your dietary needs.

Can I make these bars vegan?
Yes, you absolutely can! Simply replace the eggs with a flax egg by mixing 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, and let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. This flax egg acts as a perfect binder and will keep your Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Bars delicious and moist. Enjoy the joy of baking while keeping it plant-based!