Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how these bars are easy to make, requiring just a few pantry staples. The combination of bananas and peanut butter provides natural sweetness and protein, while the oats add a hearty texture. They’re versatile, customizable, and perfect for meal prep. Whether I need a quick breakfast or a post-workout snack, these bars always hit the spot.
ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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ripe bananas (mashed)
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creamy peanut butter
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maple syrup or honey
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vanilla extract
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rolled oats
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baking soda
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salt
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cinnamon (optional)
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chocolate chips or chopped nuts (optional)
directions
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I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
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In a large bowl, I mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
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I add the peanut butter, maple syrup or honey, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas, stirring until well combined.
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I mix in the rolled oats, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using) until a thick batter forms.
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If I’m adding chocolate chips or nuts, I fold them into the batter.
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I spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
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I bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the bars are set and the edges are golden brown.
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I allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 9–12 bars, depending on how I slice them. The preparation time is about 10 minutes, and the baking time is 25–30 minutes, making the total time around 35–40 minutes.
Variations
I sometimes add a scoop of protein powder to the batter for an extra boost. For a nut-free version, I use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter. I also like to mix in dried fruits like cranberries or raisins, or sprinkle shredded coconut on top before baking for added flavor and texture.
storage/reheating
I store the cooled bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, I refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months. When I want to enjoy a frozen bar, I let it thaw at room temperature or warm it slightly in the microwave.
FAQs
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, I can use quick oats, but the texture will be slightly different. Rolled oats provide a chewier texture, while quick oats make the bars softer.
Can I make these bars vegan?
Absolutely. I use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure that any add-ins like chocolate chips are dairy-free to keep the bars vegan.
How ripe should the bananas be?
I use bananas that are very ripe with brown spots, as they are sweeter and mash more easily, contributing to the bars’ moistness and flavor.
Can I add other mix-ins?
Yes, I often add ingredients like chopped nuts, dried fruits, or seeds to customize the bars to my liking.
Are these bars gluten-free?
They can be gluten-free if I use certified gluten-free oats. I always check the packaging to ensure they meet my dietary needs.
Conclusion
These Banana Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars are a wholesome and satisfying treat that I enjoy making regularly. They’re easy to prepare, customizable, and perfect for on-the-go snacking or a quick breakfast. With their natural sweetness and hearty texture, they’re a delicious way to fuel my day.
Print
Banana Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars
- Total Time: 35–40 minutes
- Yield: 9–12 bars
- Diet: Vegan
Description
These soft-baked banana peanut butter oatmeal bars are naturally sweetened, perfect for meal prep, and great for breakfast or snacking.
Ingredients
2 ripe bananas (mashed)
½ cup creamy peanut butter
¼ cup maple syrup or honey
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1½ cups rolled oats
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
⅓ cup chocolate chips or chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, mash the bananas until smooth.
Stir in the peanut butter, maple syrup or honey, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Add rolled oats, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Mix until a thick batter forms.
Fold in chocolate chips or chopped nuts, if desired.
Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until bars are set and edges are golden brown.
Let cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.
Notes
For a nut-free version, use sunflower seed butter.
Add a scoop of protein powder for extra protein.
Customize with dried fruits, coconut, or seeds for additional flavor and texture.
Use very ripe bananas for optimal sweetness and moisture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
