It is 3pm on a Tuesday. You see those brown bananas on your counter. Don’t throw them away yet. These Banana Chocolate Chip Blondies are the perfect solution.
They are soft and chewy. Your kitchen will smell like warm vanilla. This recipe is a family favorite for a reason. It is fast, easy, and very satisfying. You get the comfort of banana bread. You also get the texture of a brownie.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a massive win for busy parents. It uses simple pantry staples you already have. You can mix everything in just one bowl. This means less cleanup for you later. It is a great way to save money. You turn old fruit into a special treat. Kids love the sweet chocolate chips. They won’t even know they are eating fruit. It is the ultimate budget-friendly snack for any day.
The texture is truly special. It is denser than a cake. It feels rich and buttery. The brown sugar adds a deep caramel flavor. It pairs perfectly with the ripe bananas. This recipe is very forgiving for beginners. You do not need fancy equipment. Just a bowl and a spoon will do.
Simple Method
Making these bars is very straightforward. You start by melting your butter. Then you whisk in the sugar. You add the bananas and dry ingredients. The batter will look thick and golden. Anyone can master this recipe on the first try. It only takes fifteen minutes to prep. Then the oven does the hard work. You can relax while it bakes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These bars use mostly pantry staples that are easy to find. Make sure your bananas are very spotted.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup mashed overripe bananas
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Step-by-Step
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8 inch square baking pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter and brown sugar until smooth.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating until well combined.
- Stir in the mashed bananas until evenly distributed.
- Gently fold in the flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined.
- Stir in 3/4 cup of the chocolate chips.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan and sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of chocolate chips on top.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool completely in the pan before cutting into 16 squares.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve these bars warm from the pan. They are heavenly with cold milk. You can also add a scoop of ice cream. This makes it a fancy dessert. Pack them in school lunchboxes for a treat. They stay soft for days. Set them out at a casual gathering. Your friends will ask for the recipe. Enjoy a quiet moment with a bar and coffee.
Keep It Fresh
Store leftovers in an airtight container. They stay fresh at room temperature for three days. You can keep them in the fridge longer. They will last up to one week there. These bars also freeze beautifully for later. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap. Then place them in a freezer bag. Thaw one at a time for a quick snack. Reheat in the microwave for ten seconds.
Tips for Best Results
- Use bananas with lots of black spots.
- Do not overmix the flour into the batter.
- Measure your flour using the spoon-and-level method.
- Line your pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Let the bars cool before you try to cut them.
- Add a pinch of sea salt on top for flavor.
- Double the batch for a larger family gathering.
- Use a metal pan for the best chewy edges.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Swap chocolate chips for chopped walnuts or pecans.
- Use dark chocolate chips for a less sweet taste.
- Add a teaspoon of cinnamon for extra warmth.
- Try white chocolate chips for a creamy twist.
- Use gluten-free all-purpose flour if needed.
Quick Answers
Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, you definitely can use them. Thaw them completely first. Drain any excess liquid before mashing. This keeps the batter from getting too wet.
How do I know when they are done?
The edges should look golden brown. The center should feel set. A toothpick should come out mostly clean. Do not overbake them or they will dry out.
Can I make these dairy-free?
You can use melted coconut oil instead of butter. Use dairy-free chocolate chips as well. The texture will still be wonderfully chewy. Your family will still love them.
I hope these sweet bars bring a little joy to your busy week. They are the perfect way to use up what you have. Give them a try and enjoy every bite!
— Lidia
Banana Chocolate Chip Blondie Bars
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 large eg g
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup mashed overripe bananas
- 1 1/2 cups all -purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon sal t
- 1 cup semi -sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8x8 inch square baking pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter and brown sugar until smooth.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating until well combined.
- Stir in the mashed bananas until evenly distributed.
- Gently fold in the flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined.
- Stir in 3/4 cup of the chocolate chips.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan and sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of chocolate chips on top.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool completely in the pan before cutting into 16 squares.
