Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Bars Recipe

Introduction

These Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Bars are a wholesome and delicious snack perfect for any time of day. Packed with natural sweetness and a hint of chocolate, they are easy to make and great for on-the-go energy.

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup mashed ripe bananas
• 2/3 cup natural creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
• 1 large egg
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cups old-fashioned oats
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 3/4 cup chocolate chips, divided
• Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling on top

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line an 8×8-inch metal baking pan with parchment paper. Lightly spray with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, peanut butter, maple syrup, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Step 3: Add the oats, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and 1/2 cup of chocolate chips. Stir until fully combined.
4. Step 4: Pour the mixture evenly into the prepared pan and spread it out. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of chocolate chips on top.
5. Step 5: Bake for 30 to 40 minutes or until the bars are set and edges are lightly golden. Remove from oven and sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
6. Step 6: Allow bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares and serving.

Tips & Variations

• For added texture, try mixing in chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans.
• Use dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor and less sweetness.
• If you prefer a vegan version, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water).
• Make sure bananas are ripe for the best natural sweetness and moisture.

Storage

Store these bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the bars in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Reheat briefly in the microwave or enjoy cold.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?

Old-fashioned oats provide better texture and structure in these bars, but quick oats can be used in a pinch. The bars may be softer and less chewy.

Are these bars gluten-free?

They can be gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free oats. Always check oatmeal packaging to ensure no cross-contamination.

Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Bars Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 133 reviews

• Author: Ethan
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 9 bars (cut into 3x3 squares) 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Bars are a delicious and wholesome snack perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat. Made with natural peanut butter, ripe bananas, and oats, they offer a chewy texture with a hint of sweetness from pure maple syrup and bursts of chocolate chips. Topped with flaky sea salt, these bars balance sweet and salty flavors for an irresistible and nutritious bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Wet Ingredients

• 3/4 cup mashed ripe bananas
• 2/3 cup natural creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
• 1 large egg
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

Dry Ingredients

• 2 1/4 cups old-fashioned oats
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

Add-ins and Toppings

• 3/4 cup chocolate chips (divided into 1/2 cup and 1/4 cup)
• Flaky sea salt (for sprinkling on top)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Line an 8×8-inch metal baking pan with parchment paper, then lightly spray it with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Set aside.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed ripe bananas, natural creamy peanut butter, pure maple syrup, one large egg, and pure vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
3. Add Dry Ingredients: Add the old-fashioned oats, baking powder, ground cinnamon, kosher salt, and 1/2 cup of the chocolate chips to the wet mixture. Stir everything together until fully combined and evenly mixed.
4. Prepare for Baking: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out smoothly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup chocolate chips evenly on top of the batter for extra chocolate goodness.
5. Bake the Bars: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes. The bars are done when they are set and slightly golden brown around the edges. Once baked, remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle the top with flaky sea salt for a wonderful salty contrast.
6. Cool and Serve: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan to firm up. Once cool, cut into squares and serve as a nutritious snack or breakfast option.

Notes

• For firmer bars, you can refrigerate them after they have cooled to help them set more tightly.
• Use natural peanut butter without added sugars or oils for a healthier option.
• Old-fashioned oats provide the best texture, but you can substitute with quick oats if needed, though the texture will be softer.
• Flaky sea salt is recommended for sprinkling on top as it adds a pleasant crunch and enhances the flavor balance.
• You can add nuts or seeds if desired for extra crunch and nutrition.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Snack
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: peanut butter banana bars, oatmeal bars, healthy snack, breakfast bars, homemade granola bars, peanut butter snacks, banana snacks