Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3/4 cup mashed ripe bananas
- 2/3 cup natural creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste
Dry Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups old-fashioned oats
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
Add-ins and Toppings
- 3/4 cup chocolate chips (divided into 1/2 cup and 1/4 cup)
- Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling on top
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch metal baking pan with parchment paper and lightly spray it with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Set aside.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the mashed ripe bananas, natural creamy peanut butter, pure maple syrup, egg, and vanilla bean paste. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Add Dry Ingredients: To the wet mixture, add the old-fashioned oats, baking powder, ground cinnamon, kosher salt, and 1/2 cup of the chocolate chips. Stir until all ingredients are evenly combined, forming a thick batter.
- Assemble the Bars: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Smooth the top with a spatula. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup chocolate chips over the surface evenly.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes. Bake until the bars are set and edges turn a light golden brown. Remove the pan from the oven and immediately sprinkle flaky sea salt on top to enhance flavor.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cool, lift them out using the parchment paper and cut into 12 squares. Serve and enjoy as a nutritious snack or breakfast option.
Notes
- Use ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture in the bars.
- Natural creamy peanut butter without added sugars or oils gives the best texture and flavor.
- For a vegan version, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water).
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Flaky sea salt on top balances the sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 to 40 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian