Chocolate Banana Walnut Snack Bars

Name: Chocolate Banana Walnut Snack Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/3 cup melted coconut oil; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making these chocolate banana walnut snack bars whenever I need a quick, nourishing treat. Packed with the goodness of bananas, walnuts, and rich chocolate, they satisfy my sweet tooth while keeping me energized. Whipping them up is a breeze, and I often customize the ingredients based on what I have on hand. They’re perfect for a midday snack or a post-workout boost that I can easily grab on the go. I never get tired of the delightful combination of flavors and textures in every bite!

Created by

Keira Dalton

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:10:21.063Z

When I first made these bars, I was amazed at how simple and delicious they turned out. By using overripe bananas, I ensured the bars had a natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with the rich chocolate. I often experiment with adding a pinch of cinnamon for extra warmth, which really elevates the flavors.

I learned that to achieve the best texture, it’s essential not to overmix the batter. Gently folding in the walnuts at the end gives a wonderful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the moist bars. Now, they are a staple in my kitchen!

        Why You'll Love These Snack Bars
        Rich chocolate flavor balanced with the sweetness of ripe bananas
Nutty crunch from walnuts that adds texture
Healthy ingredients make them a perfect guilt-free snack

      

Perfecting Your Technique

When making these Chocolate Banana Walnut Snack Bars, the key to a moist texture lies in the ripeness of your bananas. Look for bananas with brown spots, as they are sweeter and more flavorful. The mashed bananas should blend into the wet ingredients until smooth, which ensures even distribution throughout the bars. If you overmix after adding the flour, you might end up with dense bars, so mix just until combined.

Using melted coconut oil not only adds richness but also contributes to the bars' tender crumb. Ensure that your coconut oil is warm but not hot enough to cook the eggs or curdle the mixture. You can substitute coconut oil with other oils like vegetable or canola oil, but the coconut flavor complements the chocolate and bananas beautifully.

Storage and Variations

Once baked, let the bars cool completely before storing them. They can be kept in an airtight container for up to five days at room temperature or refrigerated for a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag; they can be stored for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight or pop one in the microwave for a quick warm-up.

You can easily customize these snack bars by adding ingredients like dried fruits, seeds, or other nuts based on your preference. For a burst of flavor, try adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or incorporating a handful of shredded coconut. If you prefer a lower sugar option, consider reducing the brown sugar and opting for dark chocolate chips, which have less sugar and a richer taste.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients before you begin:

Ingredients

2 ripe bananas, mashed
1/3 cup melted coconut oil
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious bars:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, melted coconut oil, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.

Add Dry Ingredients

Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the wet ingredients, then add the flour. Mix just until combined to avoid overmixing.

Fold in Chocolate and Nuts

Gently fold in the chocolate chips and walnuts until evenly distributed.

Bake the Bars

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Cut

Let the bars cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Cut into squares and enjoy!

Bake these bars ahead of time for an easy snack throughout the week!

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute the walnuts with your favorite nuts or add dried fruits for a different twist.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your snack bars turn out too dry, it might be due to overbaking. Keep a close eye on them after 20 minutes, and check for doneness by inserting a toothpick. It should come out clean but not completely dry. If they seem underbaked, return them to the oven for a couple of additional minutes. Remember, they will continue to cook while cooling in the pan.

On the other hand, if your bars are too moist and fall apart, it could be due to too many bananas or underbaking. Ensure you use the specified amount of mashed bananas, and for a firmer structure, let them cool completely in the pan before cutting. If you find they are still too wet, consider baking them a bit longer next time.

Serving Suggestions

These snack bars are exceptionally versatile when it comes to serving options. For a decadent treat, try drizzling melted chocolate over the top or sprinkling some sea salt to enhance the flavor further. Pair them with a dollop of Greek yogurt or nut butter to add creaminess and protein, making them an even more satisfying snack.

You can also crumble them over smoothies or yogurt bowls for added texture. They work wonderfully as a pre- or post-workout snack, providing both energy and nutrients. The combination of carbohydrates from the bananas, healthy fats from the walnuts, and antioxidants from the chocolate makes them a well-rounded choice.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, but the texture may change slightly. You might need to adjust the liquid ingredients.

→ How long will these bars last?

They can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these bars?

Absolutely! Freeze them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just thaw before serving.

→ What can I use instead of coconut oil?

You can use unsalted butter or any other neutral oil like canola oil.