Banana Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars

These Banana Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars are a deliciously wholesome snack or breakfast option. They are soft, chewy, and packed with natural sweetness from ripe bananas and a creamy, nutty flavor from peanut butter. Perfect for meal prepping or satisfying your sweet tooth in a healthier way!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: You probably already have everything you need in your kitchen.
• Naturally Sweetened: Ripe bananas provide natural sweetness, reducing the need for added sugars.
• Quick & Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps.
• Nutritious: Packed with fiber, healthy fats, and protein to keep you energized.
• Versatile: Great as a breakfast bar, snack, or even a light dessert.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ripe bananas
• Creamy peanut butter
• Rolled oats
• Honey or maple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)
• Vanilla extract
• Baking powder
• Cinnamon (optional)
• Salt
• Dark chocolate chips or chopped nuts (optional, for added texture)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Mash the bananas: In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
3. Mix wet ingredients: Stir in the peanut butter, vanilla extract, and honey (if using) until well combined.
4. Add dry ingredients: Fold in the oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. If desired, mix in chocolate chips or nuts.
5. Transfer to baking dish: Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish, pressing it down gently.
6. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
7. Cool and slice: Let the bars cool completely before slicing into squares or rectangles.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 bars
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Nut-Free Option: Swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter.
• Add Protein: Mix in a scoop of your favorite protein powder.
• Fruit Boost: Toss in dried cranberries or raisins for extra sweetness.
• Crunch Factor: Sprinkle chopped almonds or walnuts on top before baking.
• Spice It Up: Add a dash of nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a cozy twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
• Freezing: Freeze individual bars in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave.
• Reheating: Microwave a bar for 10-15 seconds if you prefer them warm and gooey.

FAQs

How ripe should the bananas be?

The riper, the better! Overripe bananas with brown spots are ideal for maximum sweetness.

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, but the texture will be softer and less chewy.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Use maple syrup instead of honey and check that your chocolate chips are dairy-free.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

As long as you use certified gluten-free oats, the bars are naturally gluten-free.

What can I use instead of peanut butter?

Almond butter, cashew butter, or even tahini work well as substitutes.

Can I reduce the sweetness?

Of course! Omit the honey/maple syrup if you prefer a less sweet bar.

How do I prevent the bars from crumbling?

Make sure the mixture is well-combined and press it firmly into the baking dish before baking.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger baking dish and extend the baking time slightly.

What size baking dish should I use?

An 8×8-inch dish works perfectly for this recipe.

Can I add protein powder?

Yes! Add 1-2 scoops of protein powder, but you may need to add a splash of almond milk to balance the texture.

Conclusion

Banana Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars are a quick, satisfying, and nutritious treat that checks all the boxes. Whether you enjoy them as a grab-and-go breakfast, a post-workout snack, or a guilt-free dessert, they’re sure to become a household favorite. Give them a try and see just how easy and delicious homemade bars can be!

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