Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-make treat that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further than monkey bars! These tasty treats are essentially just a layer of gooey, chewy goodness sandwiched between two pieces of crusty bread. But don’t let their simplicity fool you – with the right combination of ingredients, monkey bars can be transformed into a wide range of flavors and textures that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
In this article, we’ll share 18 mouth-watering monkey bar recipes that are perfect for everything from everyday snacks to special occasion desserts. From classic chocolate chip to more unique flavor combinations like s’mores and pumpkin spice, there’s something on this list for everyone.
Classic Chocolate Chip Monkey Bars
A classic treat that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth! These chewy bars are packed with semisweet chocolate chips and topped with a crunchy peanut butter streusel.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, and brown sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Stir in eggs, vanilla extract, and chocolate chips.
5. Press dough into prepared baking dish.
6. Mix peanut butter and chopped peanuts; sprinkle over the top of the dough.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Peanut Butter Banana Monkey Bars
These chewy bars combine the natural sweetness of bananas with the richness of peanut butter, all wrapped up in a crunchy oat and brown sugar crust.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe bananas
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped peanuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mash the bananas with a fork until smooth. Stir in peanut butter and honey until combined.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together oats, brown sugar, and salt. Add chopped peanuts if using.
4. Press half of the oat mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with the banana-peanut butter mixture, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Top with the remaining oat mixture. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
6. Let cool completely before cutting into bars and serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
S’mores Monkey Bars with Marshmallow Swirl
S’mores Monkey Bars with Marshmallow Swirl: A Twist on a Classic Treat
These gooey, chewy bars combine the campfire classic s’mores with the fun of monkey bars. With a marshmallow swirl adding an extra layer of flavor and texture, these treats are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups milk chocolate chips
– 1 cup marshmallows
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well combined. Press into prepared baking dish.
3. Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth. Pour over crust.
4. Roll out marshmallows to desired thickness (about 1/4 inch). Place on top of chocolate layer.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until marshmallows are golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Oatmeal Raisin Monkey Bars
These chewy bars are a delightful twist on traditional oatmeal raisin cookies, with the added bonus of being easy to eat on-the-go. Perfect for snacking or as a sweet treat after dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup raisins
– 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together oats, brown sugar, and granulated sugar.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Stir in the dry ingredients until just combined. Fold in raisins and walnuts (if using).
5. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden brown around edges.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Double Chocolate Monkey Bars
These indulgent treats are packed with rich chocolate flavor and crunchy nuts, perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth. With a gooey caramel center and a crumbly oat topping, these bars are sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter
– 2 cups brown sugar
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in vanilla extract.
3. Gradually mix in flour and oats. Stir in chocolate chips and walnuts.
4. Press mixture into prepared baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly browned.
5. Remove from oven and let cool completely. Drizzle with caramel sauce before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Blueberry Monkey Bars
These Lemon Blueberry Monkey Bars are a delightful twist on the classic bar cookie, with a tangy lemon filling and sweet blueberries. Perfect for springtime or any time you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly dough forms.
3. Press dough into prepared baking dish. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until lightly golden.
4. While the crust is baking, prepare lemon filling by whisking together eggs, vanilla extract, and lemon juice.
5. Remove crust from oven and pour in lemon filling. Top with blueberries and chopped pecans (if using).
6. Return to oven and bake for an additional 15-18 minutes or until filling is set.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Caramel Apple Monkey Bars
These chewy bars are packed with sweet caramel, crunchy apples, and a hint of monkey magic! Perfect for a quick snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup light brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped dried apples
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together oats, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and salt.
3. Stir in chopped apples and caramel sauce until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, combine peanut butter and honey until smooth.
5. Press the oat mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with the peanut butter-honey mixture.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Coconut Almond Monkey Bars
These chewy bars are packed with coconut flakes, crunchy almonds, and a hint of vanilla, making them the perfect snack or dessert. With only 8 ingredients, they’re also incredibly easy to make!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Stir in shredded coconut and sliced almonds.
5. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bars
These moist and flavorful bars combine the warmth of pumpkin spice with the classic comfort of monkey bread, perfect for a cozy fall treat or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 egg
– 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, pumpkin puree, and melted butter until smooth.
3. Add pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, and salt; stir until combined.
4. Pour in milk and egg; mix until batter forms.
5. If using pecans, fold them into the batter.
6. Pour batter into prepared dish and smooth top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Strawberry Cheesecake Monkey Bars
These creamy, dreamy bars are a twist on the classic monkey bar recipe, infused with the sweetness of strawberries and the tanginess of cheesecake. Perfect for a dessert or snack, these bars are sure to satisfy your cravings!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup sliced strawberries
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until well combined. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
3. In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
4. Pour cheesecake mixture over crust. Top with sliced strawberries.
5. Melt white chocolate chips in microwave or double boiler. Drizzle over strawberries.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are set.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
White Chocolate Cranberry Monkey Bars
A sweet and tangy twist on the classic monkey bar recipe, featuring white chocolate and cranberries.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter
– 16 oz white chocolate chips
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar. Add melted butter and stir until combined.
3. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
4. Melt white chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
5. Spread the melted white chocolate over the crust. Top with cranberries.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Maple Pecan Monkey Bars
Maple Pecan Monkey Bars: A Sweet Treat with a Twist!
These chewy bars combine the classic flavors of peanut butter and banana with the richness of maple syrup and crunch of pecans. Perfect for a snack or dessert, they’re sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 ripe banana, mashed
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, peanut butter, and sugar. Mix until smooth.
3. Beat in eggs and mashed banana.
4. Stir in maple syrup and vanilla extract.
5. Fold in chopped pecans.
6. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Funfetti Birthday Cake Monkey Bars
Add a dash of whimsy to your celebration with these colorful and delicious monkey bars, perfect for birthday parties or any special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 12 oz white chocolate chips
– 1 cup funfetti sprinkles
– 1 cup monkey bar mix (chocolate, caramel, and vanilla)
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, confectioners’ sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press mixture into prepared pan.
3. Melt white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth. Pour over crust.
4. Sprinkle funfetti sprinkles and monkey bar mix evenly over the top.
5. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Zucchini Carrot Monkey Bars
These moist and flavorful bars are perfect for a snack or dessert, packed with the goodness of zucchini and carrots. With only 8 ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll be enjoying these yummy treats in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup grated zucchini
– 1/2 cup grated carrot
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
4. Stir in grated zucchini and carrot.
5. Pour mixture into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Zucchini Carrot Monkey Bars!
Cherry Almond Monkey Bars
Treat yourself to a delightful combination of cherry and almond flavors in these soft and chewy monkey bars. With the perfect balance of sweet and tart, these bite-sized treats are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cherries (such as Bing or Rainier)
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, peanut butter, honey, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
3. Fold in chopped cherries and sliced almonds.
4. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
6. Allow to cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Espresso Chocolate Monkey Bars
Take a bite into the rich flavors of espresso and chocolate, combined with the sweetness of caramelized bananas and crunchy walnuts. This indulgent treat is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large ripe bananas, sliced
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Mix crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into prepared baking dish.
3. Arrange banana slices on top of crust.
4. Drizzle caramel sauce over bananas.
5. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Stir in espresso powder and heavy cream.
6. Pour chocolate mixture over caramel layer.
7. Sprinkle chopped walnuts on top.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Gluten-Free Monkey Bars with Almond Flour
These chewy bars are a delicious treat that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while staying gluten-free. Made with almond flour and natural sweeteners, these monkey bars are a healthier alternative to traditional treats.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups almond flour
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar substitute (such as Swerve or Erythritol)
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: chopped nuts or chocolate chips for added texture
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine almond flour, sugar substitute, and salt. Stir until well combined.
3. Add melted butter, peanut butter, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth batter forms.
4. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth out.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until edges are lightly golden brown.
6. Allow bars to cool completely before cutting into squares.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegan Banana Nut Monkey Bars
These chewy bars are packed with mashed bananas, crunchy nuts, and a hint of maple syrup, making them the perfect vegan snack or dessert. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can indulge in these tasty treats whenever you want.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe bananas
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mash the bananas with a fork until smooth.
3. Add the oats, walnuts, maple syrup, coconut oil, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well combined.
4. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
6. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to go bananas for these delicious monkey bar recipes! From classic chocolate chip to s’mores-filled treats, we’ve got 18 mouthwatering options to satisfy any craving. Whether you’re looking for a sweet snack or a show-stopping dessert, our collection has something for every occasion. Discover unique flavor combinations like lemon blueberry and pumpkin spice, or go all out with funfetti birthday cake bars. With a variety of ingredients and twists, these monkey bars are sure to be a hit!
