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Easy Banana Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars Recipe

Easy Banana Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars Recipe
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★★★★★

5.2 from 22 reviews

These Easy Banana Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars are a nutritious and delicious snack or breakfast option. Made with ripe bananas, creamy peanut butter, oats, and optional add-ins like nuts and chocolate chips, they are naturally sweetened and packed with wholesome ingredients. Perfect for a quick energy boost or a healthy treat on the go.

Ingredients

Scale

Wet Ingredients

  • 2 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 cup)
  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (use natural peanut butter for a healthier option)
  • 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats (use gluten-free oats if needed)
  • 1/4 cup ground flaxseed (optional, for added nutrition)
  • A pinch of salt

Add-ins (Optional)

  • 1/4 cup chopped nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
  • 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips or dried fruit (optional, for extra sweetness)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Wet Ingredients: Start by mashing the ripe bananas in a large mixing bowl until smooth. Measure out the peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract.
  2. Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Stir well until the mixture becomes smooth and evenly combined.
  3. Mix Dry Ingredients: Incorporate the rolled oats, ground flaxseed (if using), and a pinch of salt into the wet mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure the oats are fully coated and the ingredients are evenly distributed.
  4. Add Optional Mix-Ins: If you’re using chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit, fold them into the mixture at this stage.
  5. Prepare Baking Dish: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal.
  6. Transfer and Press: Transfer the mixture to the prepared dish and use a spatula or your hands to press it down firmly and evenly. Compact the mixture well to ensure the bars hold their shape once cut.
  7. Chill: Place the dish in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until the mixture is firm and set.
  8. Slice and Serve: Once the mixture has set, lift the parchment paper to remove it from the dish. Place it on a cutting board and slice it into bars or squares of your desired size.

Notes

  • Use natural or unsweetened peanut butter to reduce added sugars.
  • For a nut-free version, omit the nuts and use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter.
  • These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
  • Freeze leftovers for up to 3 months; thaw before serving.
  • Adjust the sweetener to taste based on the ripeness of your bananas and preference.
  • Gluten-free oats must be used if gluten sensitivity is a concern.

Nutrition

Keywords: banana oatmeal bars, peanut butter bars, healthy snack, no bake oatmeal bars, easy breakfast bars

Find it online: https://kitchenbyrita.com/easy-banana-peanut-butter-oatmeal-bars-recipe/