Why Make This Recipe
Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Bars are a delicious, wholesome, and satisfying snack. They pack a good amount of energy and are perfect for breakfast on the go or a midday treat. The combination of oats, bananas, and peanut butter makes them nutritious, while the chocolate chips add a touch of sweetness that everyone will love. Plus, they are easy to make and require only a few ingredients!
How to Make Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Bars
Ingredients:
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup applesauce
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey (optional)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, mashed bananas, applesauce, peanut butter, and maple syrup (if using).
- Stir in the chocolate chips, baking powder, and salt until everything is well mixed.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
- Allow to cool before cutting into bars. Enjoy your healthy snack!
How to Serve Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Bars
You can serve these bars as a quick breakfast or an afternoon snack. They are also great for packing in lunchboxes, and you can enjoy them with a glass of milk or a cup of tea. They are perfect for sharing with family and friends at gatherings or picnics.
How to Store Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Bars
Store these bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. You can also refrigerate them to keep them fresh for a longer time. If you want, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them individually before freezing.
Tips to Make Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Bars
- Make sure the bananas are really ripe for the best flavor and sweetness.
- You can use any nut butter instead of peanut butter if you have allergies.
- Try adding nuts or dried fruits for extra texture and flavor.
Variations
Feel free to experiment! You can use different flavors of nut butter, or add a pinch of cinnamon for a warm spice flavor. If you like coconut, shredded coconut can be mixed in for a tropical twist.
FAQs
Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, you can use instant oats, but the texture may be slightly different. Rolled oats give a chewier texture that many people enjoy.
Can I replace maple syrup with sugar?
Yes, you can use sugar instead of maple syrup, but you might want to reduce the amount since sugar is sweeter. Adjust according to your taste.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the edges are golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If it comes out with batter, bake for a few more minutes.
Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Bars
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
- Stir in the peanut butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Add the rolled oats, baking soda, and salt to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips.
- Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and set.
- Let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing and serving.