Banana Peanut Butter Oat Bars

Banana Peanut Butter Oat Bars are a delightful and nutritious treat that everyone will love. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even a post-workout boost, these bars combine the rich flavors of banana and peanut butter with the satisfying texture of oats. With just six simple ingredients, they are quick to whip up and can easily be customized to suit your taste. Whether you’re in need of a healthy snack for kids or a convenient option for busy mornings, these bars are sure to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 8 minutes of prep time, you can have these bars ready to bake in no time.
• Healthy Ingredients: Made with whole foods like bananas and oats, these bars are packed with fiber and protein.
• Customizable Flavors: Add your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits to make them uniquely yours.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: These bars store well in the fridge, making them an ideal choice for meal prepping.
• Satisfying Snack: They provide long-lasting energy without the sugar crash often associated with traditional snack bars.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, it’s essential to gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Fork or potato masher
• Baking dish (8×8 inches)
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl allows you to easily combine ingredients without spills.
• Baking dish: Using an 8×8-inch baking dish ensures even cooking for perfectly baked bars.
• Parchment paper: This makes removing the bars from the dish effortless and prevents sticking.

Ingredients

Banana Peanut Butter Oat Bars are made with just 6 ingredients for a healthy, simple snack. Rich in fiber and protein, these homemade granola bars will keep you full and fueled.

Base Ingredients

• 2 medium ripe bananas
• 1/2 cup natural creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
• 3 Tbsp. coconut oil, melted (or avocado oil)
• 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract

Oats and Protein

• 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 2 scoops collagen protein (~20g) (sub protein powder of choice)

Flavor Enhancers

• 1/2 cup chocolate chips (sub cacao nibs or dried fruit if making vegan)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped walnuts (optional)
• 1/4 tsp. kosher salt

How to Make Banana Peanut Butter Oat Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Step 2: Mash the Bananas

In a mixing bowl, place the ripe bananas. Use a fork to thoroughly mash them until they become smooth.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Stir in the natural creamy peanut butter, pure maple syrup, melted coconut oil (or avocado oil), and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients

Add in the old-fashioned rolled oats, collagen protein (or protein powder), chocolate chips, walnuts (if using), and kosher salt. Stir everything together until evenly mixed.

Step 5: Bake the Mixture

Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish. If desired, sprinkle a few extra chocolate chips on top. Place it in the oven and bake for 28 to 32 minutes until set.

Step 6: Cool and Slice

Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for about 30 minutes. Use the parchment paper to lift out the bars before letting them cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, slice them into 12 equal bars.

Enjoy your delicious Banana Peanut Butter Oat Bars as a nutritious snack any time of day!

How to Serve Banana Peanut Butter Oat Bars

Banana Peanut Butter Oat Bars are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions that enhance their flavor and make them an even more satisfying snack.

With Fresh Fruit

• Banana Slices: Top the bars with fresh banana slices for extra moisture and sweetness.
• Berries: Add a handful of blueberries or strawberries on the side for a refreshing contrast.

With Yogurt

• Greek Yogurt: Serve the bars with a dollop of Greek yogurt for added protein and creaminess.
• Coconut Yogurt: For a dairy-free option, pair with coconut yogurt to maintain the tropical theme.

As A Breakfast Item

• Toast: Crumble the bars over your morning oatmeal or yogurt for a crunchy topping.
• Smoothie Bowl: Blend up your favorite smoothie and use chopped bars as a topping for texture.

On-the-Go Snack

• Packaged Snack: Wrap them individually in parchment paper for an easy grab-and-go snack during busy days.

How to Perfect Banana Peanut Butter Oat Bars

Creating the perfect Banana Peanut Butter Oat Bars is simple when you follow these tips. Keep these in mind for delicious results every time!

• Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter they will be, enhancing the overall flavor of the bars.
• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Accurate measurements lead to consistent texture and taste. Use measuring cups and spoons for best results.
• Mix Well: Ensure all ingredients are well combined so every bite is equally flavorful.
• Don’t Overbake: Check your bars around the 28-minute mark. Overbaking can lead to dry bars; aim for a slightly soft center.
• Let Them Cool Completely: Allowing them to cool fully helps achieve the right texture, making them easier to slice without crumbling.

Best Side Dishes for Banana Peanut Butter Oat Bars

Pairing side dishes with your Banana Peanut Butter Oat Bars can elevate your snack or meal experience. Here are some excellent options that complement their flavors nicely.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness to your meal.
2. Nutty Granola: Pair with a crunchy granola that enhances texture and provides additional nutrients.
3. Trail Mix: A blend of nuts, seeds, and dried fruit offers a crunchy, protein-packed side.
4. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can balance out the sweetness of the bars beautifully.
5. Vegetable Sticks: Carrot or cucumber sticks add crunch while keeping things healthy.
6. Chia Seed Pudding: This creamy pudding makes an excellent complement with its smooth texture and fiber content.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Banana Peanut Butter Oat Bars, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Not mashing bananas enough: Ensure that the bananas are fully mashed to create a smooth mixture. This helps in achieving the right texture for your bars.
• Using low-quality peanut butter: Choose a natural, creamy peanut butter without added sugars or oils. This will enhance the flavor and nutritional value of your bars.
• Skipping the salt: A small amount of salt enhances the sweetness and overall taste. Don’t skip this step, as it makes a significant difference.
• Overbaking: Keep an eye on your bars while baking. Overbaking can lead to dry, crumbly bars. Aim for a golden color and a slightly soft center.
• Not letting them cool properly: Allowing the bars to cool completely before slicing is crucial. This prevents them from falling apart and ensures clean cuts.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Banana Peanut Butter Oat Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days.

Freezing Banana Peanut Butter Oat Bars

• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Banana Peanut Butter Oat Bars

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350ºF, place bars on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes or until warm.
• Microwave: Place a bar on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 15-20 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as they can become too soft.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over low heat and warm each bar for about 2-3 minutes per side.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do Banana Peanut Butter Oat Bars last?

Banana Peanut Butter Oat Bars will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator when stored properly.

Can I freeze Banana Peanut Butter Oat Bars?

Yes, you can freeze them! Wrap each bar tightly and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

What can I substitute for peanut butter?

You can use almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or any nut butter of your choice as an alternative.

Are these bars suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! These Banana Peanut Butter Oat Bars are perfect for meal prep since they are easy to make ahead and store well.

Final Thoughts

Banana Peanut Butter Oat Bars are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with various mix-ins like nuts, seeds, or dried fruits. These bars make an excellent healthy snack or breakfast option. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the benefits of homemade goodness!

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Banana Peanut Butter Oat Bars

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 38 minutes
• Yield: Makes 12 bars 1x

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Description

Banana Peanut Butter Oat Bars are the perfect blend of nutrition and taste, making them an ideal choice for breakfast, snacks, or a post-workout pick-me-up. With only six wholesome ingredients, these bars are easy to prepare, taking just 8 minutes of your time. The rich flavors of ripe bananas and creamy peanut butter combine beautifully with hearty oats, providing a satisfying texture and lasting energy without the sugar crash. These bars are not only customizable with your favorite add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts but also store well, making them a fantastic option for meal prep. Enjoy them fresh or on-the-go; they’re bound to become a family favorite!

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Ingredients

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• 2 medium ripe bananas
• 1/2 cup natural creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
• 3 Tbsp. coconut oil (melted)
• 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 2 scoops collagen protein (or protein powder)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC) and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Stir in peanut butter, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract until combined.
3. Add rolled oats, collagen protein, chocolate chips (if using), walnuts (optional), and salt. Mix thoroughly.
4. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake for 28 to 32 minutes until set.
5. Let cool in the pan for about 30 minutes before lifting out with parchment paper and allowing to cool completely on a wire rack. Slice into 12 bars.

• Prep Time: 8 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Snack
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar (50g)
• Calories: 170
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 40mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 0mg