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Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Bars Recipe

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4.3 from 6 reviews

These Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Bars are a wholesome and delicious snack or breakfast option that combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with creamy peanut butter, oats, and melty chocolate chips. Baked to perfection with a hint of cinnamon and topped with flaky sea salt, these bars offer a perfect balance of flavors and a satisfying texture. They’re easy to make and ideal for meal prep or on-the-go energy.

  • Total Time: 40 to 50 minutes
  • Yield: 12 bars

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  • Author: Maya
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 to 40 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian