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!

Print
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Banana Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars

Banana Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars

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  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 9-12 bars
  • Category: Snack / Breakfast
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: International
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

These banana peanut butter oatmeal bars are a healthy and delicious snack or breakfast option! Made with ripe bananas, creamy peanut butter, and hearty oats, they’re naturally sweetened and packed with energy. Perfect for on-the-go mornings or a quick pick-me-up!


Ingredients

  • 2 ripe bananas, mashed

  • 1/2 cup (130g) creamy peanut butter

  • 1/4 cup (60ml) honey or maple syrup

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 2 cups (160g) old-fashioned oats

  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

  • 1/4 cup (40g) chocolate chips or chopped nuts (optional)


Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.

  2. Mix Wet Ingredients:
    In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, peanut butter, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.

  3. Add Dry Ingredients:
    Stir in the oats, cinnamon, and salt until well combined. Fold in the chocolate chips or nuts, if using.

  4. Press into Pan:
    Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and press it evenly into the pan.

  5. Bake:
    Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Let the bars cool completely in the pan.

  6. Slice and Serve:
    Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Cut into squares and enjoy!


Notes

  • For a gluten-free version, use certified gluten-free oats.

  • Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the fridge for up to 1 week.

  • Add dried fruit, seeds, or shredded coconut for extra texture and flavor.

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