Description
Chewy, naturally sweetened bars made with ripe bananas, creamy peanut butter, and hearty oats. Perfect as a healthy snack, breakfast on-the-go, or kid-friendly treat. These bars can be baked or made no-bake for a quick, fuss-free option.
Ingredients
🛒 Ingredients (makes about 12 bars):
3 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup rolled oats
½ cup peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
Optional Add-ins:
¼ cup chocolate chips or raisins
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon cinnamon
Pinch of salt
Instructions
📝 Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare Pan
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. Stir in peanut butter and vanilla (if using) until well combined.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
Fold in oats, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Add chocolate chips or raisins if desired. Mix until evenly incorporated.
Step 4: Bake or Chill
Baked version: Spread mixture evenly in the pan and bake 20–25 minutes, until lightly golden and firm.
No-bake version: Press mixture firmly into the pan and chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours until set.
Step 5: Cut & Serve
Let cool slightly (or completely if baked) before slicing into bars. Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the fridge.
Notes
- Baby-Friendly: Use smooth peanut butter, omit chocolate chips, and mash bananas extra fine.
- Make-Ahead: Bars can be stored in the fridge or frozen for up to a month.
- Texture: For chewier bars, add a few extra tablespoons of oats.
- Variations: Swap peanut butter with almond or sunflower seed butter for nut-free options.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours (no-bake)
- Category: Snack / Breakfast / Healthy Treat
- Method: Baked or No-Bake
- Cuisine: American