Directions
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
Mash Bananas: In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
Mix Wet Ingredients: Add the melted butter, sugar, vanilla extract, and beaten egg to the mashed bananas. Mix until well combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
Add Extras: Fold in the chocolate chips and chopped nuts if using.
Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve: Allow the squares to cool in the baking dish before cutting into squares. Enjoy!
Kitchen Equipment Needed
Large mixing bowl
Medium mixing bowl
Whisk
Spatula
8×8-inch baking dish
Parchment paper (optional)
Measuring cups and spoons
Tips and Variations
Tips
Use Overripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your squares will be.
Do Not Overmix: Overmixing can result in dense squares. Mix until the ingredients are just combined.
Cool Completely: Let the squares cool completely before cutting to ensure clean slices.
Variations
Add a Swirl: Swirl in some peanut butter or Nutella before baking for an extra layer of flavor.
Healthier Option: Substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
Frosting: Top with a cream cheese frosting or a simple chocolate glaze for an extra decadent treat.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Banana Chocolate Squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen squares at room temperature before serving.
Food and Drink Pairings
These Banana Chocolate Squares are delicious on their own, but you can also pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special treat. Enjoy them with a cup of coffee, a glass of cold milk, or your favorite tea.
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