Description
These Peanut Butter Banana Chocolate Chip Oat Bars are a wholesome, naturally sweetened, and easy-to-make snack perfect for breakfast, post-workout fuel, or a healthy dessert. Made with rolled oats, ripe bananas, peanut butter, and dark chocolate chips, these gluten-free and dairy-free bars are soft, chewy, and incredibly satisfying!
Ingredients
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 large bananas)
- ½ cup natural creamy peanut butter
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup dark chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, peanut butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Mix in rolled oats, cinnamon, and salt until evenly combined.
- Fold in Chocolate Chips: Stir in chocolate chips, reserving some for the top if desired.
- Bake: Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle reserved chocolate chips on top. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool & Serve: Let cool for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Slice into squares and enjoy!
Notes
- Nut-Free Option: Swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter.
- Extra Protein: Add a scoop of protein powder to the batter.
- Fruit Add-Ins: Mix in ¼ cup dried cranberries or raisins for added sweetness.
- Spice It Up: A pinch of nutmeg or ginger enhances the warm flavors.
