Banana Chocolate Bars
Chewy and moist banana chocolate bars combine ripe bananas with rich chocolate chunks, perfect for a quick snack or dessert that appeals to banana and chocolate lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cream together shortening, sugar, and brown sugar.
- Beat in vanilla and egg.
- Blend in mashed bananas.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix well.
- Stir in chocolate pieces.
- Spread the batter in a greased and floured 10 1/2 x 15 1/2-inch jelly roll pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 35 minutes.
- Cool in the pan for 15 minutes.
- Cut into 30 bars and store tightly covered.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using half whole wheat flour and half all-purpose flour. If you don't have shortening, unsalted butter can be used as a substitute. Make sure your bananas are very ripe for maximum sweetness. You can also add nuts or dried fruits for added flavor and texture. If you want a fun twist, try adding a layer of Easy Coconut Frosting on top once cooled.
Serving Suggestions
These banana chocolate bars are perfect as a snack or dessert. Serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat, or pair them with a cup of coffee for a delightful afternoon pick-me-up. They also make a great addition to lunchboxes. For a refreshing side, consider serving with a slice of Frozen Fruit Salad Delicious to balance the sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them wrapped individually in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Banana Chocolate Bars contains roughly 160 calories, with 2g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 6g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen bananas. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before mashing them. This will help maintain the right consistency in the batter.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when they are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake, as this can lead to dry bars.
Can I add nuts to the banana chocolate bars?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans would be a great addition, adding a nice crunch and flavor. Simply fold them into the batter along with the chocolate pieces before baking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).