Delicious Banana Chocolate Chip Bars

Introducing the delectable and irresistible Banana Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars! This recipe is a true gem that I stumbled upon last summer, born out of a desire to switch up my banana baking routine. These bars strike the perfect balance between a comforting blondie and the beloved flavors of banana bread. The rich aroma of brown butter, ripe bananas, and an abundance of chocolate creates a treat that is both familiar and delightfully special.

I’ve witnessed firsthand the magic of these Banana Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars. From enticing my neighbor’s son to linger with just a whiff of their irresistible scent to converting my banana-skeptic husband into a true fan, these bars have a way of leaving a lasting impression. They are perfect for any occasion, whether enjoyed as a cozy dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, paired with a cup of coffee during gatherings, or tucked into lunch boxes for a special treat that brings smiles all around.

Experiment with the recipe by adding your favorite nuts, swapping chocolate varieties, or incorporating unique flavors like cinnamon or espresso powder. These bars have a way of making even the simplest ingredients shine and are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Whip up a batch of these Banana Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars and let their irresistible charm work its magic on your taste buds!

Quick Benefits

• Rich and indulgent flavor profile combining brown butter, ripe bananas, and chocolate
• Versatile – perfect for everything from after-school snacks to dessert for dinner guests
• Easy to customize with different mix-ins like nuts, coconut, or espresso powder
• Appeals to banana skeptics with its irresistible combination of flavors

Why You’ll Love This Delicious Banana Chocolate Chip Bars Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor Combination: The blend of brown butter, ripe bananas, and chocolate creates a unique and decadent treat that’s a cross between a blondie and banana bread.
• Aromatic and Inviting: The sweet aroma of these banana chocolate chip cookie bars is so enticing that it will have your family and friends lingering around the kitchen.
• Surprisingly Popular: Even self-proclaimed banana skeptics like this recipe! They may find themselves devouring multiple bars in one sitting.
• Versatile and Adaptable: You can customize these bars by adding nuts, different types of chocolate, or even a hint of espresso powder to suit your taste preferences.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a simple snack, a special dessert, or a lunchbox treat, these bars are versatile and can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
• Enhance with Toppings: Sprinkle extra chocolate chips, toffee bits, or a dash of cinnamon on top for added texture and flavor.
• Pairs Well with Various Beverages: Enjoy these bars warm with ice cream, alongside coffee or tea, or even as a delightful dessert option for guests.
• Family Favorite: This recipe is a hit with both kids and adults alike, and may even become a requested treat for special celebrations, like a birthday cake alternative.

Ingredients for Delicious Banana Chocolate Chip Bars

Cookie Bar Base

• 1¼ cups packed brown sugar
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, for browning
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 2½ cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ cup mashed ripe banana (about 1 large banana)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Mix-ins & Toppings

• ⅓ cup toffee bits, plus extra for topping
• ½ cup milk chocolate chips, plus extra for topping
• ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, plus extra for topping

How to Make Delicious Banana Chocolate Chip Bars

Step 1: Brown the Butter

Cube butter and melt in a heavy saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until golden brown with a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and transfer to a heat-safe bowl to cool.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

Once the brown butter has cooled, sift the flour, cinnamon, and baking soda together in a medium bowl.

Step 3: Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang to use as handles, and lightly coat with non-stick cooking spray.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together cooled brown butter, mashed banana, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gently fold the sifted dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Add Mix-ins

Carefully incorporate the semi-sweet chocolate chips, milk chocolate chips, and toffee bits into the dough until evenly mixed.

Step 7: Transfer to Baking Pan

Evenly spread the cookie dough in the prepared baking pan and smooth the top using a spatula.

Step 8: Add Toppings

Sprinkle more chocolate chips and toffee bits on top of the dough, lightly pressing them in.

Step 9: Bake

Bake for 30-35 minutes until the top is golden brown, the center is mostly set but slightly soft, and the edges are firmer than the center.

Step 10: Add More Toppings

Sprinkle additional chocolate chips and toffee bits on top of the warm bars to let them soften slightly.

Step 11: Cool Completely

Cool the cookie bars completely in the pan to allow them to set properly and achieve the desired texture.

Step 12: Cut and Serve

After allowing the bars to cool completely, lift them out of the pan using the parchment paper handles. Cut into 9 equal squares and serve.

Storage Tips

After baking and cooling the banana chocolate chip cookie bars, it is important to store them properly to maintain their freshness and flavor. To keep the bars moist and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Make sure the container is sealed tightly to prevent air exposure that can dry out the bars.

If you have leftover bars or want to store them for a longer period, you can also refrigerate them. Place the bars in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating. When ready to enjoy, you can either let the bars come to room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave for a few seconds to enhance their gooey texture and flavors.

For longer-term storage, you can freeze the banana chocolate chip cookie bars. Wrap individual bars or the entire batch tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container. Frozen bars can last for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, simply transfer the bars to the refrigerator overnight or let them sit at room temperature for a few hours before indulging in this delectable treat.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a dairy-free version of these Banana Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars, you can substitute the unsalted butter with vegan butter or coconut oil. This swap will maintain the moisture and richness in the bars while catering to dietary restrictions or preferences. Additionally, if you prefer a healthier alternative, you can try using applesauce or mashed avocado instead of butter, keeping in mind that this might alter the texture slightly.

To make these bars gluten-free, you can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. Ensure the flour blend contains a binder like xanthan gum to help with the texture. This adjustment will make the recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly, so keep an eye on the bars as they bake to prevent overcooking.

Serving Suggestions

For a fun twist, turn these banana chocolate chip cookie bars into a decadent banana split dessert! Cut the bars into smaller squares and top each with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of chocolate syrup, a dollop of whipped cream, and a cherry on top. The warm banana bars paired with the cold ice cream and toppings create a delightful mix of flavors and textures that will be a hit at any gathering.

For a cozy fall-inspired treat, try serving these banana chocolate chip cookie bars with a side of warm spiced apple cider. The combination of the sweet, gooey bars and the aromatic cider will create a comforting and delicious pairing perfect for a chilly autumn afternoon. The flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves in the cider will complement the banana and chocolate in the bars, making for a delightful snack or dessert option.

FAQs for Delicious Banana Chocolate Chip Bars

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter for browning?

Yes, you can use salted butter for browning if that’s what you have on hand. Just be mindful of the additional salt content in the recipe and adjust accordingly to avoid over-salting the bars.

Can I substitute the toffee bits with another ingredient?

If you don’t have toffee bits or prefer a different flavor, you can substitute them with chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture and a nutty flavor. You could also try adding dried fruit like raisins or cranberries for a different twist.

Can I make these banana chocolate chip cookie bars ahead of time?

Yes, you can make these bars ahead of time. Once baked and cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the bars for up to 2-3 months. Just thaw them at room temperature before serving or reheat them in the microwave for a warm treat.

How can I enhance the banana flavor in these bars?

If you want to enhance the banana flavor in these bars, consider using very ripe bananas with dark spots. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more pronounced their flavor will be in the bars. You could also add a touch of banana extract to the batter for an extra boost of banana essence.

Conclusion

Banana Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are truly a delightful treat that brings joy to anyone who tastes them. Whether you’re a banana enthusiast or a skeptic, these bars have a way of winning hearts and taste buds over. The warm, comforting flavors of brown butter, ripe bananas, and chocolate meld together perfectly in every bite, creating a treat that feels both familiar and extraordinary.

I hope this recipe becomes a staple in your baking repertoire, just as it has in mine. The versatility of these Banana Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars makes them suitable for anything from a quick snack to a special dessert. Feel free to get creative with the recipe by adding your own twist, whether it’s a sprinkle of cinnamon, a handful of nuts, or a tropical touch with toasted coconut. The possibilities are endless, and the result is always a delicious treat that’s sure to put a smile on your face. Enjoy baking and savoring these delightful Banana Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars!