Chocolate Banana Hazelnut Snack Squares

Name: Chocolate Banana Hazelnut Snack Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 squares
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 cup hazelnuts, chopped; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Modern Cooking

I love whipping up these Chocolate Banana Hazelnut Snack Squares as a quick treat for any time of the day. Blending the rich flavors of chocolate with ripe bananas and crunchy hazelnuts results in a deliciously satisfying snack. It’s a favorite among my family and friends, and I can always count on them to disappear within minutes. Plus, making them is a breeze, allowing me to enjoy more time with my loved ones while indulging in these delights.

Created by

Saskia Morton

Last updated on 2026-01-21T22:21:34.194Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I was looking for a way to use up some overripe bananas. The combination of chocolate and hazelnuts sounded dreamy, but I was unsure how it would work as a square. However, baking them brought out the best in each ingredient, resulting in a moist, flavorful snack that I couldn’t resist!

One detail that I found key during the preparation was to slightly toast the hazelnuts before mixing them in. This simple step amplifies their nutty flavor and adds a delightful crunch to the squares. It’s a game-changer that I now always incorporate whenever I make them!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Decadent blend of chocolate, banana, and hazelnut flavors
Nutty crunch that complements the soft texture
Simple recipe that’s easy to whip up anytime

      

The Importance of Ripe Bananas

Using ripe bananas is crucial for achieving the perfect texture and flavor in these squares. As bananas ripen, their starches convert to sugars, resulting in a naturally sweet and creamy consistency. You'll know they're ripe when the peels have turned a deep yellow and are speckled with brown spots. This sweetness enhances the overall flavor of the snack squares and reduces the need for added sugars, making them a healthier treat. If you're in a pinch, you can microwave unripe bananas for about 30 seconds; just be aware that they may not provide the same depth of flavor.

Incorporating mashed ripe bananas also serves as a natural binder in this recipe, eliminating the need for added eggs. This is particularly beneficial for those following a vegan diet or looking for egg alternatives. Make sure to mash them thoroughly with a fork or potato masher; you want a smooth consistency to ensure even distribution throughout the batter. Small lumps can lead to uneven texture, making the squares chewy rather than delightfully soft with the added crunch of hazelnuts.

Choosing the Right Cocoa Powder

The choice of cocoa powder can significantly affect the overall flavor profile of your Chocolate Banana Hazelnut Snack Squares. Dutch-processed cocoa has a smoother taste and darker color, while natural cocoa powder produces a more intense chocolate flavor and lighter color. If you prefer richer chocolate notes, opt for Dutch-processed; for a more traditional cocoa taste, go with the natural variety.

When measuring cocoa powder, it's essential to spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off rather than scooping directly from the container. This technique prevents packing and ensures you don't end up with too much cocoa, which could throw off the balance of flavors. To enhance the chocolate taste even further, consider adding a pinch of espresso powder or coffee to the batter; this will deepen the chocolate flavor without imparting a coffee taste.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Banana Hazelnut Snack Squares can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to three days. To keep them fresh longer, consider refrigerating them, where they can last up to a week. If you're planning to make a batch in advance, they freeze exceptionally well. Just wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-friendly bag. They can be frozen for up to three months and defrost quickly when left at room temperature for 15-20 minutes.

Serving these squares can be a fun opportunity for creativity. For an extra touch, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the tops after they cool, or sprinkle a few crushed hazelnuts for added crunch. Pair them with fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or a dollop of yogurt for a satisfying breakfast or light dessert option. They also make a great on-the-go snack, providing a perfect blend of healthy fats, fiber, and natural sweetness to keep your energy levels up throughout the day.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make delicious snack squares:

Ingredients

2 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup hazelnuts, chopped
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

With these ingredients ready, you're all set to create your delicious snack squares!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Chocolate Banana Hazelnut Snack Squares:

Prepare the Oven and Pan

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

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, honey (or maple syrup), almond milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well integrated.

Combine the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add it to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

Fold in Hazelnuts

Gently fold in the chopped hazelnuts, ensuring they're evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Bake the Squares

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Cut

Remove from the oven and let the squares cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Once fully cool, cut into squares and enjoy!

Now, enjoy your homemade Chocolate Banana Hazelnut Snack Squares!

Pro Tips

For a twist, try adding a handful of chocolate chips to the batter before baking. They’ll melt in and provide an extra chocolatey burst.

Helpful Baking Tips

When baking, pay attention to the appearance of your snack squares to judge doneness. Aim for slightly golden edges with a firm but slightly springy center. If you insert a toothpick into the middle and it comes out with moist crumbs instead of wet batter, they're ready to come out of the oven. Overbaking can lead to dry squares, so keep an eye on the timer as you approach the 25-minute mark.

If you find that your snack squares are too dense or heavy, a common issue could be the overmixing of the batter. Mixing just until the dry ingredients are incorporated is key. The more you stir, the more gluten you develop from the flour, which can result in a heavier texture. Aim for a few swift folds when incorporating the hazelnuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed without overworking the batter.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for alternatives to make this recipe nut-free or cater to allergies, you can substitute the chopped hazelnuts with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds. They provide a similar crunch without the allergenic concerns. Additionally, using sunflower seed butter in place of hazelnuts can deliver a nut-like flavor without the use of actual nuts, making it a perfect option for schools or nut-free environments.

For a lighter version of the recipe, consider reducing the amount of sweetener. You can cut the honey or maple syrup by a quarter without significantly affecting the texture, especially since the bananas already provide natural sweetness. Alternatively, if you prefer a refined-sugar-free option, try using mashed dates or date syrup as a sweetener for a caramel-like flavor.

Variations to Try

Don't hesitate to experiment with the base recipe! Adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the flavor profile and give your snack squares a warm, cozy element. You can mix in a handful of mini chocolate chips or dried fruits, such as cranberries or chopped dates, for additional texture and sweetness. Incorporating different nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, will add another layer of flavor as well.

For those who are feeling adventurous, try integrating vegetable purees like pumpkin or sweet potato for seasonal variations. Not only do these add a nutritional boost, but they also contribute moisture to the squares. When substituting, reduce the almond milk slightly to compensate for the added liquids. Each of these variations can provide a unique twist on the original Chocolate Banana Hazelnut Snack Squares, catering to diverse tastes and preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the hazelnuts?

Absolutely! You can use any nuts you prefer, such as almonds or walnuts.

→ How do I store these squares?

Store the squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I make these vegan?

Yes, simply use maple syrup instead of honey and non-dairy milk to keep them vegan-friendly!

→ What can I use instead of bananas?

Applesauce can be a good substitute, but it will change the flavor and texture slightly.