Description
Soft, chewy, and naturally sweet, these peanut butter banana oatmeal bars are an easy one-bowl snack made with wholesome ingredients. Perfect for breakfast, meal prep, toddlers, or a healthy grab-and-go treat, they can be made with just 3 or 4 simple ingredients and require no flour or refined sugar.
Ingredients
🛒 Ingredients (for one 8×8-inch pan – 9 squares)
Base Recipe (3 Ingredients):
2 large ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup natural peanut butter (smooth)
1 ½ cups old-fashioned rolled oats
Optional 4th Ingredient (for extra flavor):
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Add-Ins (choose 1–2 if desired):
¼ cup dark chocolate chips
1–2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (if you prefer sweeter bars)
1 tablespoon chia seeds or ground flaxseed
½ teaspoon cinnamon
Pinch of salt
Instructions
📝 Instructions:
Step 1: Prep
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 2: Mix
In a large bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. Stir in peanut butter until fully combined. Add oats (and vanilla if using). Mix until evenly incorporated. Fold in any optional add-ins.
Step 3: Press
Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan. Press down firmly with a spatula to create an even layer.
Step 4: Bake
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is set.
Step 5: Cool & Slice
Allow bars to cool completely in the pan (this helps them firm up). Slice into 9 squares and serve.
Notes
- For Babies/Toddlers: Cut into small, soft pieces and use smooth peanut butter only. Always check for nut allergies.
- No-Bake Option: Skip baking and refrigerate the pressed mixture for 2–3 hours until firm. (Texture will be softer.)
- Without Peanut Butter: Substitute almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or mashed sweet potato for a nut-free version.
- No Flour Needed: These bars are naturally flourless thanks to oats.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
- Category: Snack / Breakfast
- Method: Baked (or No-Bake Option)
- Cuisine: American
