Name: Peanut Butter Banana Oat Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter; 1/4 cup maple syrup; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups rolled oats; 1/2 tsp cinnamon; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; Optional: 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips

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Soft, chewy, and naturally sweetened, these peanut butter banana oat bars are a go-to snack or breakfast staple when I want something both wholesome and satisfying. Made in just one bowl, these bars feature ripe bananas, creamy peanut butter, and hearty oats. They're naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and refined sugar-free — perfect for a quick morning bite, post-workout energy, or a healthy midday snack.

Peanut Butter Banana Oat Bars

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 ripe bananas, mashed

½ cup creamy peanut butter

¼ cup maple syrup

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 ½ cups rolled oats

½ teaspoon cinnamon

½ teaspoon baking powder

¼ teaspoon salt

Optional: ¼ cup mini chocolate chips

Directions

I start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, I mash the ripe bananas until smooth.

Then I mix in the peanut butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until everything is well blended.

I fold in the oats, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt, stirring until the mixture is fully combined.

If I want a bit of extra indulgence, I gently stir in mini chocolate chips.

I pour the mixture into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly with a spatula.

I bake the bars for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is set and the edges look golden.

Once done, I let them cool completely in the pan before slicing into bars.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 9 bars.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Calories per bar: Approximately 165 kcal

Variations

Nut-free version: I use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter for a school-safe option.

Chunky texture: I sometimes stir in chopped nuts or seeds for added crunch.

Spice it up: A pinch of nutmeg or pumpkin spice adds a warm seasonal twist.

Fruit boost: I mix in raisins, chopped dates, or dried cranberries for a fruity flavor.

No-bake option: I skip the baking and chill the bars in the fridge to make raw-style bars (though the texture will be softer).

Storage/Reheating

I store these bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, I refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to 2 months. To freeze, I place parchment paper between the bars to keep them from sticking. When I want to reheat, I just pop one in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds if I prefer a warm treat.

FAQs

How ripe should the bananas be for this recipe?

I always go for bananas that are heavily speckled or turning brown. The riper they are, the sweeter and more flavorful the bars will be.

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, I can substitute quick oats if needed. The bars will have a slightly softer texture, but they’ll still hold together well.

Are these bars suitable for kids?

Absolutely. These bars are naturally sweetened and contain wholesome ingredients, making them a great snack for kids’ lunchboxes or after-school fuel.

Can I add protein powder to this recipe?

Yes, I often add a scoop of vanilla or unflavored protein powder. I just make sure to slightly reduce the oats to keep the texture balanced.

Do I need to refrigerate the bars?

No, it’s not required if I plan to eat them within a couple of days. But for longer freshness, I like to store them in the fridge or freezer.

Conclusion

These peanut butter banana oat bars are everything I want in a homemade snack: easy, healthy, and totally satisfying. Whether I eat them for breakfast, grab one on the go, or enjoy them with a cup of coffee, they never disappoint. They’re a great way to use up ripe bananas and keep my week fueled with nourishing goodness.

📖 Recipe:

Peanut Butter Banana Oat Bars

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 9 bars
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Soft, chewy, and naturally sweetened, these peanut butter banana oat bars are an easy and wholesome snack or breakfast option made with ripe bananas, peanut butter, and oats. They're gluten-free, dairy-free, and refined sugar-free.

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
Add peanut butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
Fold in rolled oats, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Stir until fully mixed.
Optionally, stir in mini chocolate chips for added sweetness.
Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is set and edges are golden.
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing into 9 bars.