Peanut Butter Banana Bars (Printer View)

Chewy bars blending peanut butter, banana, and oats for a wholesome energy snack without baking.

# Components:

→ Wet Ingredients

01 - 2 large ripe bananas, mashed
02 - 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
03 - 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
04 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Dry Ingredients

05 - 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
06 - 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
07 - 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
08 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
09 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

# Method:

01 - Line an 8x8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
02 - In a large bowl, mash the bananas until smooth.
03 - Add peanut butter, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Stir until well combined.
04 - Add oats, salt, cinnamon, and any optional mix-ins such as nuts or chocolate chips. Stir until evenly combined.
05 - Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and press firmly and evenly using the back of a spoon or spatula.
06 - Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until firm enough to cut.
07 - Lift bars out using parchment overhang and slice into 12 bars. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • No oven required so you wont heat up the kitchen
  • Everything comes together in one bowl with minimal cleanup
02 -
  • Pressing the mixture firmly into the pan is the difference between bars that hold together and crumbly disappointment
  • These must stay refrigerated or theyll soften too much to eat as finger food
03 -
  • Warm the peanut butter and honey in the microwave for 15 seconds to make stirring easier
  • Use a flat bottomed measuring cup to press the mixture into the pan for perfectly even bars
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