These bars are a fantastic way to use up those ripe bananas sitting on your counter. They’re packed with natural sweetness and hearty oats, making them a perfect combination of energy-boosting and deliciousness. Plus, who doesn’t love the classic pairing of banana and peanut butter?
Can I use old-fashioned oats instead of quick oats?Definitely! If you only have old-fashioned oats on hand, go ahead and use them. Just know that the bars might be a little chewier. If you want a smoother texture, you could give the oats a quick blitz in your food processor.
2. Can I swap peanut butter for another nut butter?Absolutely! Almond, cashew, or even sunflower seed butter will work great. Just make sure it’s smooth and not too thick, so your bars stay nice and creamy.
3. How do I store these bars?Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, toss them in the fridge for a week, or freeze them for up to a month.
4. Can I add extra ingredients?Of course! Feel free to throw in some chopped nuts, dried fruit, or even a dash of cinnamon to switch things up. Just be careful not to overload the mix, so your bars still hold together nicely.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 super ripe bananas: The riper, the better for maximum sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor of the bars.
- 1 1/4 cup instant or quick-cooking oats: Provides texture and a wholesome base.
- 1/4 cup smooth natural peanut butter: Adds creaminess and that irresistible nutty flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness.
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips: Because everything is better with chocolate!
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the bars rise just a bit.
Let’s Get Cooking:
- Prep Your Pan: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to ensure the bars don’t stick.
- Mash Those Bananas: In a large bowl, take your super ripe bananas and mash them until smooth. This is the foundation of your bars, providing both moisture and sweetness.
- Mix in the Good Stuff: Add in the peanut butter and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is well combined. This step is crucial for that creamy, dreamy texture we’re aiming for. Recipe by Ineskohl.info
- Dry Ingredients Time: Next, toss in your oats, salt, and baking powder. Mix until just combined—don’t overdo it!
- Chocolate Chip Heaven: Fold in about 1/3 cup of chocolate chips, saving the rest for the top of the bars. This ensures you get a little chocolate in every bite.
- Into the Pan: Pour your mixture into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips on top for that extra touch of indulgence.
- Bake and Wait: Pop the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Slice: Let your bars cool in the pan before slicing them into 6-8 pieces. This part might test your patience, but it’s worth the wait!
Tips:
Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bars will be. Look for bananas with lots of brown spots.
Smooth Your Batter: Before baking, take a moment to smooth the top of your batter in the pan. This ensures even baking and a nice appearance.
Don’t Overmix: Once you add the oats, mix just until combined. Overmixing can make the bars dense and tough.
Add Extras Mindfully: If you’re adding extras like nuts or dried fruit, keep the quantities moderate to maintain the right texture.
Let Cool Completely: It’s tempting to dig in right away, but letting the bars cool fully will make slicing easier and prevent them from crumbling.
Enjoy!
These Banana Peanut Butter Oat Bars are perfect for a grab-and-go breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up. They’re chewy, sweet, and satisfying—just the way a snack should be. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of coffee or packing them for a hike, they’re bound to become a new favorite.
