Chocolate Chip Banana Bars (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Dry Ingredients

01 - 1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour
02 - ½ teaspoon baking powder
03 - ½ teaspoon salt

→ Wet Ingredients

04 - ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter
05 - ¾ cup (150 g) light brown sugar
06 - 1 large egg, room temperature
07 - 1 cup mashed bananas (about 2 medium bananas)
08 - 2 teaspoons (10 ml) vanilla extract

→ Add-ins

09 - ¾ cup (128 g) mini chocolate chips, divided

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Line an 8x8 (20 cm) pan with parchment paper along the bottom and two sides.
02 - Place the butter in a microwave-safe bowl and melt it in the microwave for 1 minute. Stir and microwave for an additional 15 seconds if necessary. Let the melted butter cool for 10–15 minutes or until warm, but not hot.
03 - In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
04 - In a separate large mixing bowl, whisk the cooled butter with the light brown sugar until well combined. Add the egg, mashed bananas, and vanilla extract, whisking until smooth. The mixture may appear slightly curdled, which is normal.
05 - Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Fold in the mini chocolate chips, reserving some for topping.
06 - Smooth the batter into the prepared pan using a flexible spatula, ensuring an even layer. Sprinkle the reserved mini chocolate chips on top, if desired.
07 - Bake the banana bars for 30–35 minutes or until the edges are firm and the center is baked through. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few crumbs.
08 - Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan at room temperature. Once cooled, use the parchment paper to lift the bars out of the pan, slice, and enjoy.

# Notes:

01 - Ensure the butter is not too hot before mixing with other wet ingredients to prevent curdling.