Are you ready to indulge in a dessert that combines the creamy richness of peanut butter, the sweetness of ripe bananas, and the delightful crunch of chocolate chips? Welcome to your new favorite treat: Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Banana Bars! In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a batch that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a snack, these bars are a deliciously easy way to elevate your baking game. Get ready to discover the secret to a mouthwatering dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring edges are lightly greased.
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth and creamy using a fork or potato masher.
- Add peanut butter to the mashed bananas and mix thoroughly until well combined and uniform in texture.
- Incorporate brown sugar and vanilla extract into the banana-peanut butter mixture, stirring until sugar is completely dissolved.
- Crack the eggs into the mixture and whisk vigorously until the eggs are fully integrated and the batter becomes slightly fluffy.
- In a separate bowl, sift together flour and baking soda to remove any lumps.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently to create a smooth batter without overmixing.
- Gently fold in chocolate chips, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Cut into 12 equal squares and serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips
- Choose the Right Bananas: For the best flavor and texture, use very ripe bananas that are heavily speckled or even brown. They will provide natural sweetness and moisture to your bars.
- Mix Thoroughly: When combining the peanut butter and banana, ensure they are mixed until completely smooth. This will help create a uniform batter and enhance the overall flavor.
- Don’t Overmix: When folding in the dry ingredients, be gentle. Overmixing can lead to dense bars instead of the light, fluffy texture you want.
- Add Extra Chocolate: If you're a chocolate lover, feel free to double the amount of chocolate chips or even add a swirl of melted chocolate on top before baking for an extra decadent touch.
- Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so start checking your bars around the 15-minute mark. They are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.
- Cool Properly: Let your bars cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set properly and makes cutting easier.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. They also freeze well for up to 3 months—just thaw before enjoying!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 40mg
