Name: Soft & Chewy Chocolate Chip Banana Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 12
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas (mashed); ½ cup unsalted butter (melted); ¾ cup brown sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; ½ teaspoon baking powder; ¼ teaspoon baking soda; ¼ teaspoon salt; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; Special Equipment:; Mixing bowl; Whisk or wooden spoon; 8x8-inch baking pan; Parchment paper (optional but recommended for easy removal)

Soft & Chewy Chocolate Chip Banana Bars

There are days when life feels like a whirlwind—school drop-offs, work commitments, sports practice, and somehow still finding the time to put something sweet on the table for your family. That’s exactly how these Chocolate Chip Banana Bars came to life in my kitchen. I had a couple of overly ripe bananas sitting on the counter (you know, the kind you keep telling yourself you’ll make banana bread with), but I wanted something different—something easy, quick, and just a little indulgent. These bars were the answer.

The first time I made them, the smell of sweet bananas and warm chocolate filled the whole house, and my kids came running into the kitchen before they even cooled. I cut them into squares and handed them out while the chocolate was still gooey, and the reaction was instant—big smiles and even bigger bites. My husband, who normally isn’t a “banana dessert person,” went back for seconds… then thirds.

I love how these bars come together in one bowl with no fancy equipment, which is perfect for a busy mom who wants homemade treats without the fuss. They’re soft, chewy, and full of rich chocolate chips in every bite, with just enough banana flavor to make them feel wholesome. Whether you need an after-school snack, a quick dessert, or even something to tuck into lunchboxes, these bars check every box. It’s safe to say they’ve become a go-to treat in our home, and I have a feeling they’re about to be in yours too.

Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe

Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes! Just thaw them first and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

Can I make these without eggs?
Absolutely. Replace each egg with a “flax egg” (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water) for an easy vegan-friendly swap.

Can I add nuts?
Chopped walnuts or pecans work wonderfully for added crunch.

Do I need to refrigerate them?
No, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply bake in a 9×13-inch pan and increase baking time slightly until a toothpick comes out clean.

What You Need to Make Chocolate Chip Banana Bars

2 ripe bananas (mashed)

½ cup unsalted butter (melted)

¾ cup brown sugar

1 large egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup all-purpose flour

½ teaspoon baking powder

¼ teaspoon baking soda

¼ teaspoon salt

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Special Equipment:

Mixing bowl

Whisk or wooden spoon

8×8-inch baking pan

Parchment paper (optional but recommended for easy removal)

How to Make Chocolate Chip Banana Bars

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.

Mash the Bananas: In a medium bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.

Mix Wet Ingredients: Add melted butter, brown sugar, egg, and vanilla extract to the bananas. Whisk until fully combined.

Add Dry Ingredients: Stir in flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until just combined. Do not overmix.

Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in most of the chocolate chips, reserving a handful to sprinkle on top.

Bake: Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth out the top. Sprinkle the reserved chocolate chips over the surface. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool & Cut: Allow bars to cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes before cutting into squares. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips for Making the Best Chocolate Chip Banana Bars

Use very ripe bananas: The riper, the sweeter! Those speckled bananas give the best flavor.

Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can make the bars dense. Mix just until the flour is incorporated.

Add a sprinkle of sea salt: A tiny pinch on top after baking enhances the chocolate flavor beautifully.

For extra indulgence: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled bars.

Storage tip: Slice and wrap individually for easy grab-and-go snacks during busy mornings.

Reader Reviews

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “These were amazing! So easy to make after work and my kids loved them. Will definitely make again!” – Sarah W.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Perfect balance of banana and chocolate. I added some walnuts, and they were fantastic!” – Michael J.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Great recipe, but I might reduce the sugar slightly next time since my bananas were super sweet.” – Jessica T.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Took them to a potluck and they disappeared within minutes. Everyone asked for the recipe!” – Amanda L.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Loved the texture, but I wish they were a little thicker. I’ll try a smaller pan next time.” – Ben R.

Printable Recipe

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