Chocolate Banana Almond Snack Bars

Name: Chocolate Banana Almond Snack Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 cup rolled oats; 1/2 cup almond butter; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/2 cup chopped almonds; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Easy Desserts Ideas

I love making Chocolate Banana Almond Snack Bars for a delicious on-the-go treat. The combination of rich chocolate, sweet banana, and crunchy almonds creates a satisfying snack that keeps me energized throughout the day. They're easy to make and perfect for a quick breakfast, afternoon pick-me-up, or even a post-workout treat. I usually keep a batch in the fridge to grab whenever I need a boost. Trust me, once you try these bars, you’ll be hooked on this wholesome goodness!

Created by

Maribel Sutton

Last updated on 2026-01-14T01:25:35.559Z

When I first created these Chocolate Banana Almond Snack Bars, I wanted a portable snack that balanced health and indulgence. I experimented with different nuts and sweeteners until I found this winning combination. The bananas naturally sweeten each bite, while the chocolate gives it that decadent flair we all crave.

One of my favorite tips is to use ripe bananas for the best flavor and natural sweetness. They not only mash easier but also infuse more moisture into the bars, ensuring they don't turn dry. You’ll love how simple and satisfying they are!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor complemented by sweet banana
Nutty crunch from almonds adds a delightful texture
Nutritious, energy-boosting snack perfect for any time

      

The Importance of Ripe Bananas

Using ripe bananas in this recipe is crucial for achieving the right level of sweetness and moisture. Bananas that are heavily speckled with brown spots are ideal, as they develop more sugars and give the bars a natural sweetness without the need for excessive added sweeteners. If your bananas are not ripe enough, consider letting them sit at room temperature for a few days or placing them in a paper bag to expedite the ripening process.

In addition to sweetness, ripe bananas help bind the ingredients together. Their natural pectin adds a chewy texture, making the bars less likely to crumble when cut. If you find yourself short on bananas, you can substitute one ripe banana with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce, which will still provide moisture but with a slightly different flavor profile.

Chocolate and Almond Variations

While dark chocolate chips add a rich flavor that pairs beautifully with bananas, feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate. Semi-sweet or even white chocolate can create a different taste experience. Additionally, if you're looking for a dairy-free option, consider using dairy-free chocolate chips, which will complement the bars perfectly without compromising flavor.

Almonds provide not only crunch but also healthy fats and protein. If you have nut allergies or if you simply prefer a different flavor, you can substitute chopped walnuts or pecans. These nuts will still enhance the texture while delivering their own unique flavors that pair nicely with chocolate and banana.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Chocolate Banana Almond Snack Bars are excellent for meal prepping. After cutting the bars into squares, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To keep them fresh, you can layer parchment paper between the bars, preventing them from sticking together and making them easy to grab on-the-go.

If you want to store them for longer, consider freezing. Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place them in a zip-top freezer bag, where they can last for about three months. When you're ready to enjoy one, simply remove a bar from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or microwave it for a few seconds if you prefer a warm treat.

Ingredients

For the Bars

2 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup almond butter
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
1/2 cup chopped almonds
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt

Mix well and prepare for baking!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Combine Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

Add Dry Ingredients

Add the rolled oats, salt, chopped almonds, and dark chocolate chips to the wet mixture. Stir until everything is fully incorporated.

Bake the Bars

Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan and press it down firmly. Bake for 20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Cool and Cut

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out. Once cooled, cut into 12 bars and store in an airtight container.

Enjoy your homemade snack bars!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of cinnamon to the mixture or swap out the almonds for your favorite nuts or seeds.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your bars seem too crumbly after baking, it may be due to the dry-to-wet ingredient ratio. Ensure you use the correct measurement of mashed bananas and almond butter, as these ingredients help bind the mixture. Adding a bit more mashed banana or almond butter can help make the bars hold together better.

On the other hand, if your bars turn out too moist or soft, it might be because the mixture wasn't baked long enough. When the edges start to turn golden brown, that’s usually a good indicator that they are ready. For a firmer texture, you can also bake for an additional 2-5 minutes, keeping a close eye on them to avoid overbaking.

Serving Ideas

These snack bars can be enjoyed as they are, but you can elevate your snacking experience by pairing them with a spread. A dollop of Greek yogurt or a smear of nut butter can complement the flavors wonderfully. Adding fresh fruit, such as sliced strawberries or blueberries, alongside your bars can also provide a refreshing contrast.

For a more decadent treat, consider drizzling melted peanut butter or additional melted dark chocolate over the top before slicing. This enhancement not only adds flavor but also makes the bars visually appealing, ideal for serving at gatherings or as a delightful snack for friends and family.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're looking to make a larger batch, simply double the ingredients and use a larger baking pan, such as a 9x13 inch pan. Keep in mind that if you increase the size, baking time may slightly increase—start checking for doneness at 25 minutes, as it could take up to 30 minutes for the larger batch.

Conversely, if you want to make a smaller batch, you can halve the ingredients and use a smaller baking dish. Just be sure to monitor the baking time closely to achieve the perfect texture and avoid overbaking. The versatility of this recipe makes it easy to adapt to your needs!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute almond butter?

Yes, you can use any nut butter like peanut or sunflower seed butter.

→ How do I store the bars?

Store the bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these snack bars?

Absolutely! Just wrap them individually and store in the freezer for up to three months.

→ What can I use instead of honey?

Maple syrup or agave syrup are great alternatives to honey.