Description
These Peanut Butter Banana Baked Oatmeal Bars are a wholesome, delicious treat perfect for breakfast or a healthy snack. Combining ripe bananas, natural peanut butter, and rolled oats, these bars are naturally sweetened with maple syrup and studded with chocolate chips for a touch of indulgence. Easy to prepare and bake, they provide a satisfying and nutrient-rich option to keep you energized throughout the day.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup mashed ripe banana (~2 ½ medium-size bananas)
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup natural creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup almond milk (can use any non-dairy option or regular milk)
- ½ cup pure maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- ¼ cup oat flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp salt
Add-ins
- ½ cup chocolate chips + more for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9 inch baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the bars.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the mashed ripe bananas, eggs, natural creamy peanut butter, almond milk, pure maple syrup, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Combine dry ingredients and add-ins: Stir in the rolled oats, oat flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Mix until the dry ingredients are evenly incorporated. Gently fold in the chocolate chips just until combined to distribute them throughout the batter.
- Prepare to bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking tray and spread it evenly using a spatula. Sprinkle additional chocolate chips on top for extra texture and flavor.
- Bake: Place the baking tray in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the bars are fully set and cooked through.
- Cool and serve: Remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, cut into 9 equal squares and serve. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.
Notes
- You can substitute almond milk with any milk alternative or regular milk based on preference.
- Use natural peanut butter with no added sugar or oils for a healthier version.
- Add nuts or seeds for extra crunch and nutrition if desired.
- For a vegan version, replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg).
- Ensure bananas are very ripe for natural sweetness and moisture.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.