Description
These Banana Bread Bars are a deliciously moist and easy-to-make treat, perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a wholesome snack. Made with ripe bananas, warm spices, and optional walnuts or chocolate chips, they capture the classic flavors of banana bread in convenient bar form.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas (mashed)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Optional Add-ins
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the bars.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the mashed ripe bananas with the melted unsalted butter. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-incorporated.
- Add Sugars and Egg: Mix in the brown sugar, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Beat the ingredients together until fully combined and smooth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon to distribute the leavening agents and spices evenly.
- Mix Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet banana mixture. Stir gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix to keep the bars tender.
- Add Optional Mix-ins: Fold in the chopped walnuts or chocolate chips if using. This adds a crunchy texture or a sweet chocolaty touch.
- Transfer to Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly using a spatula to ensure uniform baking.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The bars are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing into 9 bars. This cooling step helps to set the bars and improves texture.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute melted butter with coconut oil.
- Optionally top the bars with cream cheese frosting or a light glaze for added sweetness and richness.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze to extend shelf life.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 115mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
