Get ready to transform your ordinary banana bread into an irresistible chocolate sensation that will make your taste buds dance! These Banana Bread Bars with Chocolate Frosting are not just another dessert - they're a mouthwatering masterpiece that combines the comforting sweetness of ripe bananas with rich, indulgent chocolate in every single bite. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe promises to deliver a treat so delicious, it'll have everyone begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup chocolate frosting
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas thoroughly using a fork until they become a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Pour the melted butter into the mashed bananas and mix well. Add vanilla extract and stir to combine.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt to ensure no lumps remain.
- Gradually add the sugar to the banana mixture, stirring continuously until fully incorporated.
- Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Transfer the batter to the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula and smoothing the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with just a few moist crumbs.
- Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then use the parchment paper to lift the bars out and place on a wire rack.
- Once completely cooled, spread the chocolate frosting evenly across the top of the bars.
- Cut into 12 equal bars and serve. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Tips
- Choose overripe bananas with dark spots for maximum sweetness and flavor intensity.
- Make sure your butter is properly melted but not scorching hot when mixing with bananas.
- Sift dry ingredients to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth, consistent batter.
- Don't overmix the batter - mix just until ingredients are combined to keep bars tender.
- Use parchment paper for easy removal and clean cutting of bars.
- Let bars cool completely before frosting to prevent melting and ensure clean spread.
- For extra richness, consider using dark cocoa powder for a more intense chocolate flavor.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain moisture and freshness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 30mg
