If you’re looking for a wholesome snack that’s soft, chewy, and packed with nutty flavor, Banana Peanut Oat Bars are the perfect choice. Made with ripe bananas, oats, and creamy peanut butter, these bars are naturally sweetened and full of nutrients. Whether you need an energizing breakfast, a post-workout snack, or a satisfying treat, Banana Peanut Oat Bars deliver delicious flavor in every bite.
What makes Banana Peanut Oat Bars special is their rich, nutty taste and comforting texture. The oats provide long-lasting energy, bananas add natural sweetness, and peanut butter brings creamy depth. Whether enjoyed plain or mixed with chocolate chips, nuts, or cinnamon, Banana Peanut Oat Bars are an easy, customizable snack that’s simple to make.
The first time I made Banana Peanut Oat Bars, I was surprised at how effortlessly they came together—and how quickly they disappeared! Their perfect balance of chewy, nutty goodness made Banana Peanut Oat Bars an instant favorite in my kitchen. Now, I make Banana Peanut Oat Bars regularly whenever I want a quick, healthy treat that’s satisfying and flavorful.
Now, Banana Peanut Oat Bars have become my go-to for meal prep, breakfast on the run, or an afternoon energy boost. Whether paired with a smoothie, packed in a lunchbox, or enjoyed as a guilt-free dessert, Banana Peanut Oat Bars are always a hit.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love Banana Peanut Oat Bars
- Naturally Sweetened – Ripe bananas add flavor without refined sugar.
- Soft & Chewy Texture – A satisfying bite with every bar.
- High in Fiber & Protein – Keeps you full and energized.
- Quick & Easy – No complicated baking steps.
- Customizable Add-Ins – Mix in chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit.
Health Benefits of Banana Peanut Oat Bars
- Rich in Nutrients – Oats and bananas provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
- Heart-Healthy Fats – Peanut butter offers beneficial fats and protein.
- Energy-Boosting – Perfect for workouts or busy days.
- No Artificial Ingredients – A clean, wholesome snack option.
- Gluten-Free Option – Made with oats for a naturally wheat-free treat.
When to Make Banana Peanut Oat Bars
- Breakfast on the Go – A quick and filling morning bite.
- Pre-Workout Fuel – Provides lasting energy before exercise.
- Healthy Snack – A great alternative to processed snacks.
- Lunchbox Favorite – Perfect for kids and adults alike.
- Guilt-Free Dessert – Sweet and satisfying with nutritious ingredients.
Chef’s Notes: Banana Peanut Oat Bars
• For the fluffiest texture, avoid overmixing – Once the dry ingredients are added, stir only until no streaks remain to prevent dense bars.
• Pair with complementary flavors – Serve warm with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of honey for a satisfying breakfast.
• Customize toppings for variety – Sprinkle chopped nuts on top before baking, fold in shredded coconut, or add dried cranberries for tartness.
• Adjust sweetness – Reduce coconut sugar or swap for maple syrup for a more natural sweetness.
• Storage tip – Keep bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for longer shelf life.
• Enhance chewiness – Using very ripe bananas helps create a soft, well-bound texture.
• Boost protein – Add a scoop of vanilla protein powder to the dry mix for a more filling snack.
• Improve texture – Toast oats lightly before mixing to add a subtle nutty depth.
• Make them nut-free – Replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini for allergy-friendly variations.
• Double the batch – Easily scale up for meal prep or party-sized portions by using a larger pan and adjusting bake time slightly.
Banana Peanut Oat Bars
Get ready to fall in love with these scrumptiously chewy Banana Peanut Oat Bars! They’re an effortless, flavor-packed twist on classic oatmeal bars—packed with ripe banana, creamy peanut butter, and decadent chocolate chips. Even home cooks at any skill level will nail this recipe in under an hour—no fuss, no fancy tools, just big taste!
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Ingredients
- Wet Ingredients
1/3 cup mashed banana about 1/3 cup
1/4 cup smooth peanut butter
2 tablespoons unsweetened applesauce or use 1 large egg
2 tablespoons almond milk or any nondairy milk
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- Dry Ingredients
3/4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
1 tablespoon coconut sugar or light brown sugar
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp fine sea salt
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- Add-Ins
1/3 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips dairy-free if desired
- Alternative Ingredients
Mashed banana: swap with pumpkin puree or mashed pear
Peanut butter: replace with almond cashew, or sunflower seed butter
Coconut sugar: use brown sugar or 2 tbsp maple syrup reduce liquids slightly
Unsweetened applesauce: sub with 1 egg or a flax egg 1 Tbsp ground flax + 3 Tbsp water
Almond milk: swap for soy oat, or cow’s milk
Rolled oats: use certified gluten-free oats for a gluten-free version
Chocolate chips: replace with raisins chopped nuts, or carob chips
Vanilla extract: use almond extract for a nutty twist
Directions
- Preheat Prep – Preheat your oven to 350°F (5 minutes). Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving a 1-inch overhang for easy removal. This step ensures even baking and easy release.
- Mash Whisk – In a mixing bowl, press the banana with a fork until smooth (2 minutes). Add peanut butter, applesauce, almond milk, and vanilla. Use a stand mixer or whisk to blend until completely uniform (about 3 minutes). Optionally, scrape down the sides halfway through for a silky batter.
- Combine Dry Elements – In a separate bowl, stir together oats, coconut sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon (2 minutes). Understanding the role of baking powder helps lift the bars slightly during baking.
- Fold In Spread – Gently fold the dry mix into the wet mixture until just combined (1 minute). Fold in chocolate chips, reserving a few to sprinkle on top. Smooth the batter into the pan with a spatula, pressing to level.
- Bake to Perfection – Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly soft (check at 18 minutes). Ovens vary, so an instant-read thermometer should register around 205°F in the center.
- Cool Chill – Let the bars cool in the pan at room temperature for 30 minutes, then transfer to the refrigerator for at least 60 minutes to set fully. Chilling ensures clean slices. Using the parchment overhang, lift the slab and cut into 4 bars just before serving.
Equipment
- mixing bowls
- measuring cups and spoons
- Stand Mixer
- silicone spatula set
Notes
- For the fluffiest texture, be careful not to overmix once the dry ingredients hit the batter—just stir until no streaks remain.
- Serve these bars warm with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of honey for breakfast, or pair with a tall glass of iced coffee as a travel-friendly snack.
- Feel free to customize by sprinkling chopped nuts on top before baking, folding in shredded coconut, or adding a handful of dried cranberries for tartness.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 220kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 120mg
- Potassium: 220mg
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 8g
- Protein: 6g
- Vitamin A: 150IU
- Vitamin C: 1mg
- Calcium: 80mg
- Iron: 1.2mg
FAQs: Banana Peanut Oat Bars
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Use certified gluten-free oats to ensure no cross-contamination.
How do I store these bars for freshness?
Keep them refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze for long-term storage.
Can I use a different type of nut butter?
Absolutely! Almond, cashew, or sunflower seed butter all work well.
What if I don’t have coconut sugar?
Swap it for brown sugar or 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, reducing liquids slightly.
Can I make these vegan?
Yes! Use almond milk, coconut sugar, and a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) instead of regular egg.
How do I make them firmer?
Chill the bars for at least 60 minutes after baking for a cleaner slice and better texture.
Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruit?
Definitely! Customize with chopped nuts, raisins, or mini chocolate chips.
What’s the best way to serve them?
Enjoy them solo, with coffee, or crumbled over yogurt for a tasty breakfast.
Can I bake them in a loaf pan instead of a square pan?
Yes! Just extend baking time slightly and check for doneness around 22 minutes.
How do I prevent them from sticking to the pan?
Line your baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhangs for easy lifting.
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