Peanut Butter Banana Bread Bars
Highlighted under: Sweet Treats
These Peanut Butter Banana Bread Bars are a delicious and wholesome treat, perfect for breakfast or a snack!
This recipe combines the rich flavors of peanut butter and ripe bananas, resulting in moist and flavorful bars that are easy to make and even easier to enjoy!
Why You'll Love These Bars
- Perfect balance of sweet and nutty flavors
- Great texture that's soft yet firm
- Easy to make with simple ingredients
- Healthy option for a quick snack or breakfast
The Health Benefits of Peanut Butter and Bananas
Peanut butter and bananas make a dynamic duo when it comes to nutrition. Both are rich in essential nutrients that support overall health. Bananas are an excellent source of potassium, which is crucial for heart health and muscle function. They also provide dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and keeps you feeling full longer. On the other hand, peanut butter is packed with protein and healthy fats, making it a satisfying addition to your diet.
Together, these ingredients create a balanced snack that can help stabilize blood sugar levels. The combination of carbohydrates from the bananas and protein from the peanut butter provides sustained energy, making these bars a great choice for breakfast or a post-workout treat. Plus, they are naturally sweetened, reducing the need for added sugars while still satisfying your sweet tooth.
Versatile and Customizable
One of the best things about Peanut Butter Banana Bread Bars is their versatility. You can easily customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Want a chocolatey twist? Add chocolate chips to the mix! Looking for some crunch? Fold in your favorite nuts or seeds. Dried fruits like cranberries or raisins can also add a delightful sweetness and chewiness to these bars.
This adaptability not only makes it fun to experiment with flavors but also allows you to cater to different dietary restrictions. Whether you're gluten-free, vegan, or simply trying to eat healthier, these bars can be tweaked to fit your lifestyle without compromising on taste or texture.
Perfect for Meal Prep
If you're looking for a convenient snack that you can prepare ahead of time, these Peanut Butter Banana Bread Bars are your answer. They store well in an airtight container, making them an excellent option for meal prepping. You can whip up a batch on the weekend and have nutritious snacks ready to go for the busy week ahead.
These bars are not only portable but also make for a great on-the-go breakfast. Whether you're rushing out the door or need a quick pick-me-up during the day, just grab a bar and you're set. Plus, they can be enjoyed by the whole family, making them a hit for both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Bar Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 cup oats
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional Mix-ins
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts
- 1/4 cup dried fruit
Mix well and pour into a greased pan.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
Mix Ingredients
In a bowl, combine mashed bananas, peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), oats, baking powder, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until well combined.
Add Mix-ins
If desired, fold in chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit.
Bake
Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool and Cut
Allow the bars to cool before cutting into squares. Enjoy!
Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Storage Tips
To keep your Peanut Butter Banana Bread Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them, where they'll last for about a week. Just make sure to let them cool completely before storing to prevent moisture buildup.
For longer storage, consider freezing the bars. Simply wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy one, just thaw it at room temperature or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are delicious on their own, but you can elevate your snacking experience by serving them with your favorite toppings. A drizzle of honey or a spread of additional peanut butter can add extra richness. Pairing them with a side of yogurt or a smoothie can create a balanced meal or snack that satisfies your hunger.
For a fun twist, consider slicing the bars into smaller pieces and serving them as part of a breakfast platter. Include fresh fruit, nuts, and a dollop of nut butter for a nutritious start to your day. The possibilities are endless, making these bars not only versatile but also a delightful addition to any meal.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes, crunchy peanut butter will add extra texture to the bars!
→ How do I store these bars?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze these bars?
Absolutely! They freeze well. Just wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
→ What can I substitute for honey?
You can use maple syrup or agave syrup as a substitute for honey.
Peanut Butter Banana Bread Bars
These Peanut Butter Banana Bread Bars are a delicious and wholesome treat, perfect for breakfast or a snack!
Created by: Emma Johnson
Recipe Type: Sweet Treats
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 12 bars
What You'll Need
Bar Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 cup oats
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional Mix-ins
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts
- 1/4 cup dried fruit
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
In a bowl, combine mashed bananas, peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), oats, baking powder, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until well combined.
If desired, fold in chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit.
Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Allow the bars to cool before cutting into squares. Enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 120mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 5g