Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Bars (Refined Sugar Free) (moist, rich, and naturally sweetened)
if you love chocolate chip cookies and banana bread, these chocolate chip banana bread bars are about to become one of your new favourite recipes. they're gluten free and refined sugar free — but you would never guess from the taste.
honestly, there's no better word to describe these bars than… moist. they're rich and decadent without feeling overly indulgent, making them a wholesome yet satisfying sweet treat.
this is hands down one of my all-time favourite desserts i've developed. they have that soft, cozy banana bread texture with pockets of melty chocolate chips throughout, giving you the best of both worlds in every single bite.
if you have overripe bananas sitting on your counter, this is your sign to make these healthier chocolate chip banana bread bars immediately. the riper the bananas, the better the flavour and natural sweetness.
i've added olive oil to these chocolate chip banana bread bars — and if you haven't baked with olive oil before and feel unsure, trust me on this one. it adds a subtle richness with a polyphenol-dense undertone that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the bananas and chocolate. you don't taste it directly; it simply elevates the overall flavour.
these gluten free chocolate chip banana bread bars are simple, comforting, and guaranteed to disappear quickly hehe.
Looking for another gluten free indulgent bake? Check out my brownie cookies or white chocolate brownies.
Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Bars (Refined Sugar Free)
Ingredients
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 170°C/160°C fan.
- Step 2: In a bowl add the mashed bananas and 2 eggs — whisk together.
- Step 3: Add in the vanilla extract and olive oil — mix until combined.
- Step 4: Pour in the coconut sugar and mix until incorporated.
- Step 5: Fold in the almond flour, oat flour, baking powder, and cinnamon.
- Step 6: Add in the chocolate chips and mix.
- Step 7: Line an 8 inch/20 cm square baking pan and pour in the batter. Top with more chocolate chips or chunks for extra richness.
- Step 8: Bake for 20–22 minutes until the edges are golden brown.
- Step 9: Let cool completely, then slice and enjoy.
Pro Tips
- The more overripe the bananas, the sweeter these chocolate chip banana bread bars will be.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I store chocolate chip banana bread bars?
Store chocolate chip banana bread bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Can I freeze banana bread bars?
Yes, chocolate chip banana bread bars freeze very well. Slice them first, then store in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Defrost at room temperature or warm slightly before serving.
Are these chocolate chip banana bread bars gluten free?
Yes, these chocolate chip banana bread bars are gluten free as long as you use certified gluten-free oat flour and chocolate chips. Always check packaging labels to avoid cross-contamination if you are strictly gluten free or celiac.
Can I substitute the olive oil in banana bread bars?
You can substitute the olive oil with melted coconut oil or your preferred neutral oil.
What type of chocolate chips should I use?
You can use dark chocolate chips, semi-sweet chocolate chips, or refined sugar free chocolate chips depending on your preference. Dark chocolate pairs especially well with the natural sweetness of the bananas.
Nutrition Facts
Per one serving:
*Nutritional information is estimated and will vary depending on the ingredients and brands you use. Basic macros don't reflect the full nutritional value including vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other beneficial compounds. Please use this as a guideline only.
