Imagine a treat so deliciously simple that it combines the creamy richness of peanut butter, the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, and the hearty goodness of oats - all in one pan with minimal cleanup! These One Dish Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Bars are not just a snack; they're a game-changing breakfast, post-workout fuel, or guilt-free dessert that will have you falling in love at first bite. Perfect for busy mornings, hungry kids, or anyone craving a nutritious and indulgent treat that comes together in just 35 minutes!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Snack
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing slight overhang for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly mash the ripe bananas using a fork until they reach a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Add the peanut butter, honey, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt to the mashed bananas. Mix these ingredients together until they are completely combined and form a uniform mixture.
- Fold in the rolled oats, stirring gently but thoroughly to ensure the oats are evenly distributed throughout the wet ingredients.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly and create a smooth, flat surface.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 22-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set but still slightly soft.
- Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan for about 15-20 minutes.
- Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the bars out of the pan and transfer to a cutting board.
- Cut into 12 even bars using a sharp knife, and serve or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Choose overripe bananas for maximum natural sweetness and easier mashing
- Use a smooth, creamy peanut butter for the best texture and even distribution
- Line your pan with parchment paper for easy removal and perfect cutting
- Allow bars to cool completely to help them set and become more cohesive
- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and soft texture
- For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of chocolate chips or chopped nuts before baking
- If you prefer a firmer bar, bake an extra 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning
- These bars are naturally gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free oats
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 200kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
