Description
Easy to make banana peanut butter oatmeal bars that are perfect for a quick breakfast or snack. These bars are packed with wholesome ingredients like ripe bananas, creamy peanut butter, and oats, making them a delicious and nutritious option.
Ingredients
Ripe Bananas:
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 cup)
Creamy Peanut Butter:
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (use natural peanut butter for a healthier option)
Honey or Maple Syrup:
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
Vanilla Extract:
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats:
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats (use gluten-free oats if needed)
Ground Flaxseed:
- 1/4 cup ground flaxseed (optional, for added nutrition)
Chopped Nuts:
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
Mini Chocolate Chips or Dried Fruit:
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips or dried fruit (optional, for extra sweetness)
Salt:
- A pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients
Start by mashing the ripe bananas in a large mixing bowl until smooth. Measure out the peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. If using nuts or chocolate chips, chop or measure them as needed.
- Combine Wet Ingredients
Add the peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Stir well until the mixture becomes smooth and evenly combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients
Next, incorporate the rolled oats, ground flaxseed (if using), and a pinch of salt into the wet mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure the oats are fully coated and the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Mix in Optional Add-Ins
If using chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit, fold them into the mixture. Customize the recipe based on your preferences.
- Press the Mixture into a Pan
Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Transfer the mixture and press it down firmly. Chill in the refrigerator to set.
- Chill to Set
Place the dish in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours until firm. This helps the bars hold their shape.
- Cut into Bars
Once set, lift the parchment paper, cut into bars, and enjoy!
- Serve and Store
Serve immediately or store in the fridge for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap bars individually and freeze for up to 3 months.
Notes
- For a variation, try adding dried cranberries or raisins for a fruity twist.
- Feel free to substitute almond butter or another nut butter for the peanut butter.
- You can also drizzle melted chocolate over the bars for a decadent touch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Banana, Peanut Butter, Oatmeal, Bars, Snack, Healthy
