Spicy Banana Bars
Spicy Banana Bars are moist, flavorful treats blending ripe bananas with warm spices like cinnamon, cloves, and allspice. Perfect for snacking or dessert, they appeal to those who enjoy a hint of heat and a nutty crunch from pecans. These bars are quick to prepare and irresistibly tasty.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, cloves, and allspice.
- Combine shortening and mashed bananas.
- Beat the shortening and bananas for 2 minutes.
- Add the egg and beat for 1 minute.
- Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk to the banana mixture, blending thoroughly after each addition.
- Stir in chopped pecans.
- Spread the batter evenly in a greased and floured 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 22 to 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar. You can substitute the shortening with unsalted butter for a different texture. If you like an extra kick, add some chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter. Ensure the bananas are very ripe for the best sweetness and moisture.
Serving Suggestions
These Spicy Banana Bars are perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon snack. Serve them warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert. They pair beautifully with Cher'S Strawberry Freeze, adding a refreshing contrast to the spiciness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Spicy Banana Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spicy Banana Bars contains roughly 145 calories, with 3g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of calcium (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 872mg per serving (38% of the Daily Value).
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 whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour. However, keep in mind that it may result in a denser texture. If you do, consider adding an extra tablespoon of milk to maintain moisture.
What can I use instead of pecans?
If you don't have pecans, walnuts or almonds are great substitutes. You can also omit nuts entirely if you're looking for a nut-free option or if allergies are a concern.
How can I make these bars more spicy?
To enhance the spiciness, you can add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the batter. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance for the perfect kick!
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).