Chocolate Chip Banana Bagels

There’s something about the combination of bananas and chocolate that feels like a warm hug on a cloudy morning. I made these Chocolate Chip Banana Bagels after a week of overripe bananas piling up in the kitchen, and let me tell you, they were the unexpected treat I didn’t know I needed. They bake up golden, with just the right hint of sweetness and melty chocolate in every bite. Whether you’re grabbing one on your way out the door or enjoying it toasted with a smear of butter, these bagels are going to make your mornings feel just a little more special.

Why This Recipe Will Be Your New Favorite

It only takes one bite to fall in love, but just in case you need convincing, here’s why this recipe is a keeper.

Adaptable: You can swap the chocolate chips for nuts or dried fruit, or even make it savory with a touch of herbs and cheese.

Easy on the Wallet: Uses simple pantry staples and ripe bananas you probably already have lying around.

No-Fuss: No yeast, no boiling, no complicated steps just mix, shape, and bake.

Easy to Tweak: Want it sweeter? Add a drizzle of honey. Prefer whole wheat? You can easily make that swap.

Always a Hit: Whether for brunch, snacks, or lunchbox treats, everyone lights up when these are on the table.

Great for Planning Ahead: Make a batch and store them for the week—your future self will thank you.

Leftover-Friendly: Slightly stale? Pop them in the toaster and they spring right back to life.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe was born out of one of those “what can I do with these bananas?” kind of moments. I’d made banana bread too many times, and muffins didn’t feel exciting. That’s when the idea hit—why not merge my favorite chewy bagels with the comfort of banana and chocolate? It was a kitchen experiment that turned into a household staple. Now, it’s one of those recipes I reach for whenever I want something cozy but a little out of the ordinary.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients come together like a dream. Each one plays a key role in balancing sweetness, texture, and that classic bagel chew.

1. Ripe Bananas: 2 medium, mashed. Brings natural sweetness and moisture to the dough.
2. All-Purpose Flour: 2 cups. Forms the base structure of the bagels and gives that familiar chewy bite.
3. Baking Powder: 2 teaspoons. Helps the bagels rise without yeast.
4. Salt: 1/2 teaspoon. Balances sweetness and deepens flavor.
5. Plain Greek Yogurt: 1 cup. Adds tang, moisture, and helps bind the dough.
6. Mini Chocolate Chips: 1/2 cup. Scattered throughout for melty pockets of chocolate in every bite.
7. Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon. Adds warmth and a subtle background flavor.

Time Needed to Make This Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Special Equipment You’ll Need

You don’t need anything fancy, just your kitchen basics.

Mixing Bowl: For combining all your ingredients smoothly.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for accuracy and consistency.
Baking Sheet: For baking the bagels evenly.
Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
Fork or Potato Masher: To mash those ripe bananas to the perfect texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

These come together quickly, and you’ll love the simplicity.

1. Preheat Your Oven: Set it to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mash the Bananas: In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients: Add Greek yogurt and vanilla extract to the bananas and stir until well combined.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Make the Dough: Slowly add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms. Gently fold in the chocolate chips.
6. Shape the Bagels: Lightly flour your hands and divide the dough into 6 equal pieces. Roll each into a ball, then poke a hole in the center and shape into a bagel.
7. Bake: Place on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20 to 22 minutes, or until golden brown and set.
8. Cool and Enjoy: Let them cool slightly on a rack before digging in.

Serving Suggestions & Presentation Tips

These bagels are best served slightly warm with a pat of butter, cream cheese, or even peanut butter for a nutty twist. For a beautiful presentation, slice them in half and fan them out on a rustic wooden board. Sprinkle a few extra chocolate chips on top, and pair with a warm drink like coffee or chai for the ultimate cozy vibe. Their golden crust and rich chocolate spots make them naturally eye-catching.

Extra Tips for Best Results

A few little tricks can go a long way in making these the best they can be.

• Use very ripe bananas with brown spots for the sweetest flavor.
• Don’t overmix the dough to keep it tender.
• Add a sprinkle of coarse sugar on top before baking for extra sparkle and crunch.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container once completely cool to keep them fresh longer.

Variations You Can Try

Shake things up and make this recipe your own.

• Peanut Butter Swirl: Add a couple spoonfuls of peanut butter to the dough for a nutty twist.
• Cinnamon Raisin: Swap chocolate chips for raisins and add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon to the dry ingredients.
• Whole Wheat Version: Use half whole wheat flour for a heartier bite.
• Nutty Banana Crunch: Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans instead of chocolate chips for extra texture.
• Vegan Option: Use dairy-free yogurt and dairy-free chocolate chips for a plant-based treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

These bagels store beautifully, making them great for meal prep or last-minute cravings. Once baked and cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for 5. You can also freeze them individually wrapped for up to 2 months. To enjoy again, just thaw and toast for that fresh-baked texture.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Keep these in your back pocket and you’ll be a bagel pro in no time.

• Use a silicone spatula to mix it’s gentler on the dough.
• Chill the dough for 10 minutes if it feels too sticky to shape.
• Don’t skip the parchment paper. It prevents the bottoms from overbrowning.
• Toasting leftover bagels brings back that perfect crisp on the outside.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 215
Note: These are approximate values.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?

Yes, but it will make the dough slightly wetter, so reduce by a tablespoon or two.

Q2: Can I make these gluten-free?

Absolutely, just use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.

Q3: Do I need to boil these bagels before baking?

Nope! That’s what makes them so easy no boiling required.

Q4: Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just make sure to bake in batches so they cook evenly.

Q5: Can I freeze the dough instead of the baked bagels?

You can, but it’s best to freeze them after baking for best texture.

Q6: My dough is sticky what should I do?

Add a bit more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until manageable.

Q7: What if I don’t have chocolate chips?

You can chop up a chocolate bar or use raisins instead.

Q8: How do I know they’re done baking?

They’ll be golden on top and firm when gently tapped.

Q9: Can I use a different flour?

Yes, you can try spelt or oat flour, but texture will vary.

Q10: What should I serve with them?

They’re great with cream cheese, nut butter, or even a drizzle of maple syrup.

Conclusion

These Chocolate Chip Banana Bagels are the kind of recipe you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again. They’re cozy, simple, and totally satisfying. Trust me, you’re going to love this one it’s worth every bite.

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