Banana Monkey Bars Recipe

Transform leftover bananas into irresistible Banana Monkey Bars! This easy recipe uses yellow cake mix for a quick and delicious base, then gets loaded with yummy toppings like butterscotch chips and coconut. A perfect treat for any occasion, inspired by Camilla Saulsbury's Cake Mix Cookies.

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 35 mins
Calories 279.6 kcal
Protein 7g
Rating 4.3 (8 Reviews)
Banana Monkey Bars 60

Recipe Actions

Share this recipe:

Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Banana Monkey Bars

  • 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
  • Vegetable Oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (your choice)
  • Sweetened Condensed Milk
  • Banana
  • 1 cup butterscotch chips
  • Sweetened Flaked Coconut

How to Make Banana Monkey Bars

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease the bottom of a 13x9 inch metal baking pan with nonstick cooking spray.
  3. In a large bowl, combine 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix, 1/3 cup vegetable oil, and 2 large eggs. Beat until well blended and crumbly.
  4. Stir in 1/2 cup chopped nuts (your choice).
  5. Set aside 1 cup of the crumb mixture.
  6. Press the remaining crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
  7. In a small bowl, mash 2 ripe bananas and combine with 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk.
  8. Pour the banana mixture evenly over the crust.
  9. Top with 1 cup butterscotch chips and 1/2 cup shredded coconut.
  10. Press down firmly on the toppings.
  11. Sprinkle with the reserved 1 cup crumb mixture.
  12. Bake for 25-28 minutes, or until lightly browned.
  13. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Chef's secret: layers of flavor make a dish truly memorable! Consider what a little extra something could bring – perhaps a touch of acidity like a good vinegar or citrus zest, a hint of smokiness from paprika, a bit of umami from mushrooms or soy sauce, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for texture. Experiment and taste as you go!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

9 g

Sugar

105g

Fat

27g

Carbs

11g