Banana Peanut Butter Oat Bars

Banana Peanut Butter Oat Bars

Nothing says simple summer joy like a naturally sweet, no-fuss treat—and these Banana Peanut Butter Oat Bars are just that.
Loaded with fiber-rich oats, creamy peanut butter, and naturally sweet ripe bananas, these bars are the perfect balance between nutritious and indulgent.

Whether you’re looking for a healthy on-the-go breakfast, a wholesome afternoon snack, or a better-for-you dessert, these chewy bars deliver every time.
With no refined sugar, no flour, and endless add-in potential, they’re as easy to love as they are to make.

🥄 Why You’ll Love These Oat Bars

  • Naturally sweetened: Bananas do the work—no added sugar needed.

  • Wholesome ingredients: Only a handful of pantry staples.

  • One bowl, one pan: Minimal mess, maximum reward.

  • Perfect for summer: No heavy baking—just mix, press, and bake.

  • Kid-friendly and mom-approved: A feel-good snack for all ages.

📝 Ingredients (6 Servings)

  • 2 ripe bananas, mashed

  • ½ cup creamy peanut butter (natural or conventional)

  • 1 ½ cups rolled oats

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • ½ tsp cinnamon

  • ¼ tsp sea salt

  • ⅓ cup dark chocolate chips or chunks

  • Optional: 2 tbsp ground flaxseed or chia seeds for added fiber

⏱ Prep & Bake Time

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes

  • Cook Time: 20–22 minutes

  • Cool Time: 15 minutes

  • Total Time: ~45 minutes

  • Yield: 6 bars

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease.

Step 2: Mash and Mix

In a medium bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. Stir in the peanut butter and vanilla extract until fully combined.

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients

Add oats, cinnamon, salt, and any optional add-ins. Mix well.
Fold in the chocolate chips or chunks last.

Step 4: Press and Bake

Spread the mixture evenly into your prepared pan. Press down firmly to ensure even baking.

Bake for 20–22 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the top is set.

Step 5: Cool and Slice

Let cool completely in the pan before slicing into bars. Enjoy immediately or store for later!

🌞 Why They’re Perfect for Summer

  • No fuss: No mixer, no complicated prep.

  • Grab-and-go: Perfect for beach days, road trips, and hiking snacks.

  • Room temp safe: No dairy or eggs means they travel well without refrigeration.

  • Light but filling: Just the right balance of carbs, fat, and fiber for all-day energy.

💡 Tips & Variations

  • Make them nut-free: Swap peanut butter with sunflower seed or tahini.

  • Pump up the protein: Add a scoop of protein powder or Greek yogurt.

  • Coconut twist: Stir in shredded coconut for tropical flair.

  • Berry bonus: Add a handful of fresh or dried blueberries for extra antioxidants.

  • Chocolate drizzle: Melt a little chocolate and drizzle over the top for a decadent finish.

🧊 Storage & Meal Prep

  • Room Temp: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

  • Fridge: Keeps well for up to 1 week.

  • Freezer: Freeze individually wrapped bars for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temp or microwave for 10–15 seconds.

Perfect for stocking your snack drawer or prepping for busy weeks!

🍫 Why Peanut Butter + Banana Is the Ultimate Duo

Peanut butter and banana are a classic combo—and for good reason. Together, they offer:

  • A balance of sweet, salty, and creamy

  • Natural energy from healthy fats and sugars

  • A nostalgic flavor that satisfies cravings without guilt

Combined with oats and dark chocolate? Pure snacking magic.

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