Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Bars blend the heartiness of oats with the creamy indulgence of peanut butter, accented by the natural sweetness of bananas and a hint of cinnamon. Perfect for a quick breakfast, a satisfying snack, or a healthier dessert option, these bars are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups rolled oats
- ½ cup almond flour
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 2 large ripe bananas, mashed
- ½ cup natural peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Topping:
- ¼ cup dark chocolate chips or chopped nuts
Preparation
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, almond flour, cinnamon, and sea salt, ensuring the dry ingredients are well mixed.
Step 3:
In a separate bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. Add the peanut butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract, and stir until the mixture is thoroughly combined and creamy.
Step 4:
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Mix well until all components are fully incorporated and the mixture is even.
Step 5:
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan. Spread it out evenly, pressing down with a spatula to compact it slightly which helps in forming firm bars.
Variation:
For a nut-free version, omit the almond flour and substitute with oat flour or increase the rolled oats, and use sunflower seed butter in place of peanut butter.
Cooking Note:
The baking time can vary slightly based on the moisture content of the bananas and the type of peanut butter used. Keep an eye on the oven towards the end of baking to prevent over-browning.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve these bars as a standalone snack, pair with a glass of milk, or crumble over yogurt for a delightful breakfast.
Tips:
- For crunchier bars, add a handful of chopped nuts to the mixture before baking.
- Ensure the bananas are very ripe for the best natural sweetness and texture.
Prep Time:
- 10 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 20-25 minutes
Total Time:
- 30-35 minutes
Nutritional Information:
Each bar (if cut into 12 pieces) approximately contains:
- Calories: 190
- Protein: 5 grams
- Sodium: 100 mg
FAQs:
Q: Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats? A: Yes, quick oats can be used but the texture will be softer and less chewy.
Q: How long do these bars last? A: They can be kept at room temperature for a few days, refrigerated for up to a week, or frozen for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Bars are a versatile and wholesome treat that’s easy to make and perfect for on-the-go eating. With the ability to customize with toppings and adapt for dietary needs, these bars can become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy making them as much as you enjoy eating them!
PrintEasy Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups rolled oats
- ½ cup almond flour
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 2 large ripe bananas, mashed
- ½ cup natural peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Topping:
- ¼ cup dark chocolate chips or chopped nuts
Instructions
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, almond flour, cinnamon, and sea salt, ensuring the dry ingredients are well mixed.
Step 3:
In a separate bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. Add the peanut butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract, and stir until the mixture is thoroughly combined and creamy.
Step 4:
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Mix well until all components are fully incorporated and the mixture is even.
Step 5:
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan. Spread it out evenly, pressing down with a spatula to compact it slightly which helps in forming firm bars.
Variation:
For a nut-free version, omit the almond flour and substitute with oat flour or increase the rolled oats, and use sunflower seed butter in place of peanut butter.
Notes
The baking time can vary slightly based on the moisture content of the bananas and the type of peanut butter used. Keep an eye on the oven towards the end of baking to prevent over-browning.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve these bars as a standalone snack, pair with a glass of milk, or crumble over yogurt for a delightful breakfast.
Tips:
- For crunchier bars, add a handful of chopped nuts to the mixture before baking.
- Ensure the bananas are very ripe for the best natural sweetness and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 190
- Sodium: 100 mg
- Protein: 5 grams
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