Go Back

Peanut Butter Banana Oat Bars - Simple, Wholesome, and Satisfying

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 3 medium ripe bananas (the spottier, the better)
  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (natural or regular)
  • 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
  • 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats (not instant)
  • 1/2 cup oat flour (or finely ground oats)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon fine salt
  • Optional mix-ins: 1/3 cup chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or seeds

Method
 

  1. Prep the pan. Line an 8x8-inch pan with parchment, leaving overhang for easy lifting. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Mash the bananas. In a large bowl, mash the bananas with a fork until mostly smooth. A few small lumps are fine.
  3. Stir in wet ingredients. Add peanut butter, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla. Mix until creamy and well combined.
  4. Add dry ingredients. Stir in rolled oats, oat flour, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Fold until the mixture is evenly moistened. If using chocolate chips or nuts, gently fold them in now.
  5. Adjust consistency if needed. The mixture should be thick and spreadable. If it’s too loose, add a tablespoon or two of oat flour. If it’s too stiff, add a splash of milk or a bit more mashed banana.
  6. Spread and smooth. Transfer the batter to the lined pan. Use a spatula to press it into an even layer, reaching the corners.
  7. Bake. Bake for 22–28 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden and the center feels set. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
  8. Cool completely. Let the pan cool on a rack for at least 30 minutes. Lift out using the parchment and slice into bars or squares.
  9. Serve or store. Enjoy at room temperature or chilled for a firmer texture.