Peanut Butter Banana Oat Bars offer a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional snack bars. Combining the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the creamy richness of peanut butter, these bars are not only satisfying but also packed with nutrients. Ideal for breakfast, a mid-day snack, or a post-workout treat, these oat bars are easy to make and sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- ½ cup peanut butter
- ¼ cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Preparation
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Stir until all ingredients are well blended.
Step 3: Add the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt to the banana mixture. Mix thoroughly until all the oats are evenly coated and the mixture is well combined.
Step 4: Spread the mixture evenly in the greased baking dish, pressing down with a spatula to compact it slightly.
Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
Step 6: Remove from the oven and let cool in the dish for at least 10 minutes. Once cooled, cut into squares or bars.
Cooking Note
Ensure that the mixture is evenly spread in the dish so that the bars cook uniformly, preventing the edges from becoming too hard before the center is done.
Serving Suggestions
These bars can be served warm or at room temperature. For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle a little more honey or maple syrup on top before serving. They also pair wonderfully with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee.
Tips
- For a gluten-free version, make sure to use gluten-free oats.
- You can add nuts, dried fruit, or chocolate chips to the mixture before baking for added texture and flavor.
Prep Time
- 10 minutes
Cooking Time
- 25-30 minutes
Total Time
- 35-40 minutes
Nutritional Information
These bars are a good source of fiber from oats and protein from peanut butter, making them a fulfilling and healthier snack option.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use something other than peanut butter? A1: Yes, any nut butter, like almond butter or cashew butter, can be used in place of peanut butter.
Q2: How do I store these oat bars? A2: Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or refrigerate them to extend their freshness.
Conclusion
Peanut Butter Banana Oat Bars are the perfect solution for anyone looking for a nutritious, tasty snack that’s easy to make and sure to please. With their chewy texture and sweet, nutty flavor, they’re a great way to satisfy your hunger and boost your energy any time of the day.
PrintPeanut Butter Banana Oat Bars
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- ½ cup peanut butter
- ¼ cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Stir until all ingredients are well blended.
Step 3: Add the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt to the banana mixture. Mix thoroughly until all the oats are evenly coated and the mixture is well combined.
Step 4: Spread the mixture evenly in the greased baking dish, pressing down with a spatula to compact it slightly.
Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
Step 6: Remove from the oven and let cool in the dish for at least 10 minutes. Once cooled, cut into squares or bars.
Notes
Ensure that the mixture is evenly spread in the dish so that the bars cook uniformly, preventing the edges from becoming too hard before the center is done.
Serving Suggestions
These bars can be served warm or at room temperature. For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle a little more honey or maple syrup on top before serving. They also pair wonderfully with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee.
Tips
- For a gluten-free version, make sure to use gluten-free oats.
- You can add nuts, dried fruit, or chocolate chips to the mixture before baking for added texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
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