Are you craving a delicious, healthy snack that's both easy to make and impossible to resist? Look no further! These Banana Oat Bars are about to become your new obsession. Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly moist, naturally sweet bar that combines the comforting flavors of ripe bananas, creamy peanut butter, and hearty oats. Whether you're a busy parent, a fitness enthusiast, or just someone who loves a quick and nutritious treat, these bars are your ultimate kitchen miracle!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- Optional: chocolate chips or nuts
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas completely using a fork until smooth and creamy. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful the bars will be.
- Add peanut butter, honey, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and create a uniform mixture.
- In a separate bowl, combine rolled oats and baking powder. Stir to distribute the baking powder evenly throughout the oats.
- Gradually fold the dry oat mixture into the wet banana mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a good texture.
- If desired, fold in chocolate chips or chopped nuts for additional flavor and texture. Distribute them evenly throughout the batter.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula and smoothing the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then use the parchment paper to lift the bars out and transfer to a wire rack.
- Allow bars to cool completely before cutting into 12 even squares. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Banana Selection is Key: Choose overripe bananas with plenty of brown spots. The riper they are, the sweeter and more flavorful your bars will be.
- Mix with a Gentle Touch: When combining wet and dry ingredients, fold gently to avoid tough bars. Overmixing can make the texture dense and chewy.
- Customize Your Creation: Feel free to experiment with mix-ins! Chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon can take these bars to the next level.
- Storage Hack: For maximum freshness, store these bars in an airtight container at room temperature. They'll stay delicious for up to 5 days - if they last that long!
- Make-Ahead Magic: These bars freeze beautifully. Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month for a quick grab-and-go breakfast or snack.
- Parchment Paper Trick: The parchment paper overhang makes removing and cutting the bars a breeze. No more stuck-on treats!Pro Tip: Let the bars cool completely before cutting to ensure clean, perfect squares that look as good as they taste!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 128kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
