Banana Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars Recipe

If you’re searching for a wholesome and delicious treat that your whole family will rave about, look no further than this Banana Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars Recipe. These bars perfectly combine the creamy richness of peanut butter with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, all wrapped up in hearty oats for a snack that is both satisfying and nourishing. Whether you need a quick breakfast on the go or a post-workout refuel, these bars bring together simple, natural ingredients to create a wholesome delight that’s dairy and gluten-free.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Banana Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars Recipe is all about simplicity, with ingredients that are easy to find but essential for that perfect texture and flavor harmony. Each one adds a unique touch that brings these bars to life, from creamy peanut butter enriching the taste to oats lending a lovely chewy texture.

• 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy): Choose your favorite style to add a nutty richness and protein boost.
• 1/4 cup coconut oil or your preferred oil: This adds moisture and helps bind the bars together for a tender bite.
• 2 large ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 cup): Naturally sweet and soft, bananas keep these bars moist and flavorful.
• 1/3 cup maple syrup (can substitute with honey): A touch of natural sweetness that complements the bananas perfectly.
• 1 large egg: Acts as the binding agent, providing structure to the bars.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Gives the bars a gentle lift and lightness.
• 3 1/2 cups old fashioned rolled oats: For chewy texture and hearty goodness; quick oats can be used but expect a softer texture.
• 1/2 cup mini dark chocolate chips: Adds a hint of indulgence and bursts of rich chocolate throughout.

How to Make Banana Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Melt the Peanut Butter

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees and spraying a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the peanut butter in a large microwave-safe bowl and heat it for 20 to 30 seconds until melted and smooth. If your coconut oil is solid, melt it together with the peanut butter now; otherwise, save it for the next step.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add the mashed bananas, maple syrup, egg, and baking powder to the melted peanut butter mixture. Whisk everything together until completely combined. This mixture forms the flavorful and moist base for your oatmeal bars.

Step 3: Add the Oats and Chocolate Chips

Stir in the oats until they’re fully coated in the banana-peanut butter mixture, making sure every oat gets that lovely flavor. Then fold in the mini dark chocolate chips, which provide delightful little chocolate surprises in each bite.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden brown and the bars set firmly. Once baked, transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before cutting them into bars.

How to Serve Banana Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars Recipe

Garnishes

Freshly sliced bananas on top of each bar add a beautiful, fresh touch. A drizzle of extra peanut butter or even a sprinkle of crushed peanuts can elevate the nutty flavors and add an irresistible crunch. A dusting of cinnamon can also bring warmth and depth to the bars’ flavor profile.

Side Dishes

These bars are perfect on their own, but pair wonderfully with a cup of creamy yogurt or a smoothie bowl for a balanced snack or light breakfast. A side of fresh fruit like berries or apple slices complements the natural sweetness and adds extra freshness to the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try cutting your bars into bite-sized cubes and serving them on skewers with alternating pieces of banana or strawberries. They also make fantastic layered parfaits: crumble the bars and layer them with yogurt and fresh fruit for a delicious and visually appealing treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store your Banana Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. They keep their moist and chewy texture wonderfully when properly sealed, making them a great grab-and-go snack.

Freezing

If you want to keep these bars longer, wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap or parchment paper and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They freeze beautifully for up to three months, allowing you to enjoy a homemade treat anytime you crave one.

Reheating

To enjoy the bars warm, simply microwave a thawed bar for 15 to 20 seconds or reheat in a toaster oven until soft and heated through. Warming enhances the flavors and softens the chocolate chips, making every bite extra comforting.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will add a lovely texture and extra nutty flavor to the bars, making them even more satisfying.

Are these bars suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free rolled oats, these bars are completely gluten-free and ideal for those avoiding gluten.

Can I substitute the maple syrup with another sweetener?

Yes, honey works perfectly as a substitute for maple syrup in this recipe, offering similar sweetness and moisture.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

To make a vegan version, replace the egg with a flax egg or chia egg, and be sure to use dairy-free chocolate chips to keep it completely plant-based.

How long do these bars stay fresh?

Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they stay fresh for about three days. Refrigerating may extend their shelf life to a week.

Final Thoughts

This Banana Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars Recipe is a true treasure to keep in your recipe collection. With just a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients, you can create bars that are full of flavor, texture, and nutrition. Give these a try and discover how quickly they become a beloved treat for breakfast, snacks, or anytime you need a little energy boost. You’re going to love how easy and satisfying they are to make!

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