Frosted Chocolate Banana Bars
Highlighted under: Fresh Baking Recipes
Enjoy a delightful treat with these Frosted Chocolate Banana Bars, perfect for any occasion!
These Frosted Chocolate Banana Bars are a delicious way to use overripe bananas, creating a sweet and moist treat that everyone will love. Topped with a rich chocolate frosting, they are perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying as a sweet snack.
Why You'll Love These Bars
- Rich chocolate flavor combined with the sweetness of ripe bananas
- Soft and moist texture that is simply irresistible
- Easy to make and perfect for using up leftover bananas
Perfect for Any Occasion
Frosted Chocolate Banana Bars are a versatile treat that can be enjoyed at any time of the year. Whether it’s a birthday party, a potluck, or simply a cozy family gathering, these bars are sure to impress. Their rich chocolate flavor and moist texture make them a favorite among both kids and adults alike. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to prepare, making them a go-to recipe for anyone looking to whip up something sweet without a lot of hassle.
The delightful combination of ripe bananas and chocolate not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also offers a touch of nostalgia. Many people have fond memories associated with banana bread or chocolate desserts from their childhood, and these bars encapsulate that essence. You can serve them warm or chilled, and they always bring a smile to the faces of those who indulge in them.
Using Up Ripe Bananas
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its ability to utilize overripe bananas that might otherwise go to waste. Instead of tossing those brown bananas, transform them into a delightful dessert that everyone will love. The natural sweetness and moisture from ripe bananas enhance the overall flavor and texture of the bars, ensuring they are soft and decadent.
This recipe is a fantastic way to teach kids about minimizing food waste. Involving them in the process of mashing bananas and mixing ingredients can be a fun family activity. Plus, they’ll love the delicious outcome! It’s a win-win situation that not only satisfies cravings but also promotes sustainability in the kitchen.
Customizing Your Bars
While the Frosted Chocolate Banana Bars are delicious as-is, there's plenty of room for customization. Consider adding chocolate chips, nuts, or even a swirl of peanut butter to the batter for added flavor and texture. Dried fruits like raisins or cranberries can also be a delightful addition, providing a chewy contrast to the soft bars.
For those who prefer a lighter option, you can experiment with using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. This substitution will give the bars a slightly nuttier flavor while still keeping them deliciously moist. Don’t hesitate to get creative and make this recipe your own!
Ingredients
For the Bars
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Frosting
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Make sure to gather all the ingredients for a smooth baking experience!
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Prepare the Frosting
While the bars are cooling, prepare the frosting by beating together the softened butter, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Frost the Bars
Once the bars are completely cool, spread the chocolate frosting evenly on top.
Serve
Cut into squares and enjoy your delicious Frosted Chocolate Banana Bars!
Store any leftovers in an airtight container for freshness!
Storage Tips
To keep your Frosted Chocolate Banana Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider refrigerating them, where they can stay good for up to a week. Just be sure to let them come back to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.
If you have extra bars that you won’t consume within a week, you can freeze them. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy a bar, simply thaw it in the refrigerator or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are delightful on their own, but you can elevate the experience by serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For an extra touch of indulgence, drizzle some chocolate sauce over the top before serving. This adds a luxurious element that complements the chocolate and banana flavors perfectly.
Pairing these bars with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk makes for a perfect afternoon snack or dessert. The rich chocolate and sweet banana flavors harmonize beautifully with the bitterness of coffee, creating a balanced treat that is sure to satisfy.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, thaw the bananas and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
→ How do I store the bars?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
→ Can I substitute the butter?
You can use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute for a dairy-free version.
→ What can I use instead of eggs?
You can use flax eggs or applesauce as an egg substitute.
Frosted Chocolate Banana Bars
Enjoy a delightful treat with these Frosted Chocolate Banana Bars, perfect for any occasion!
Created by: Anna
Recipe Type: Fresh Baking Recipes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 12 bars
What You'll Need
For the Bars
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Frosting
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
While the bars are cooling, prepare the frosting by beating together the softened butter, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Once the bars are completely cool, spread the chocolate frosting evenly on top.
Cut into squares and enjoy your delicious Frosted Chocolate Banana Bars!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 18g
- Protein: 3g