Peanut Butter Banana Bars
Peanut Butter Banana Bars are the perfect treat for any time of day. They blend the creamy, rich flavor of peanut butter with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, creating a deliciously satisfying snack or dessert that’s also packed with nutrients. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast option, a post-workout snack, or a delightful addition to your lunchbox, these bars fit the bill perfectly. Plus, they are easy to make and require simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry.
Top Reasons to Make Peanut Butter Banana Bars
- Quick and Easy: These bars come together in just one bowl, making them a breeze to whip up.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients, these bars provide energy and nourishment.
- Customizable: You can easily modify the recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs.
- Perfectly Portable: These bars are an ideal grab-and-go option for busy days.
- Kid-Friendly: With their sweet flavor and chewy texture, kids will love them!
Ingredient List
- 1 medium banana (mashed, about 1/2 cup)
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (I use Skippy)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar (lightly packed, see note 1)
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup oat flour (just oats that have been blended up, see note 2)
- 1/2 cup peanut butter baking chips or chocolate chips
Kitchen Gear Checklist
- Mixing Bowl: A large bowl for combining your ingredients.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for accurate measurements.
- Whisk or Spoon: To mix the ingredients thoroughly.
- Spatula: For scraping down the sides of the bowl.
- Baking Pan: An 8×8 inch or 9×9 inch baking dish works perfectly.
- Parchment Paper: Optional, but helps with easy removal of the bars.
Peanut Butter Banana Bars — Do This Next
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your Peanut Butter Banana Bars bake evenly and come out perfectly fluffy.
Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan
Grease your baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. This step is essential to prevent the bars from sticking.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed banana, creamy peanut butter, honey, vanilla extract, and light brown sugar. Whisk everything together until well combined and smooth.
Step 4: Add the Egg
Crack in the large egg and mix until fully incorporated into the wet ingredients. This will help bind the bars together.
Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Sprinkle in the salt, baking soda, and baking powder. Then, add the oat flour and mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the bars tough.
Step 6: Fold in the Chips
Gently fold in the peanut butter baking chips or chocolate chips (or both!) to add an extra layer of sweetness and flavor to your bars.
Step 7: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool and Cut
Once baked, remove the bars from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before cutting them into squares or bars.
Flavor-Forward Alternatives
- Add a pinch of cinnamon for a warm, cozy flavor.
- Mix in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
- Substitute maple syrup for honey for a different sweetener.
- Incorporate shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
Problems & Prevention
Here are some common issues you might encounter while making your Peanut Butter Banana Bars, along with tips to avoid them:
- Bars are too crumbly: Ensure you are measuring your oat flour correctly and that the wet ingredients are well combined.
- Bars are too dense: Avoid overmixing the batter; mix just until combined.
- Burnt edges: Keep an eye on the bars as they bake; if your oven runs hot, check for doneness a few minutes early.
- Sticking to the pan: Use parchment paper or grease the pan well to avoid sticking.
Store, Freeze & Reheat
These Peanut Butter Banana Bars are great for meal prep and can be stored or frozen for later use:
- Store: Keep the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Freeze: Wrap the bars individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: If desired, warm in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy them warm and gooey.
Quick Questions
Can I use natural peanut butter instead of creamy peanut butter?
Yes, natural peanut butter can be used, but it may affect the texture slightly. Make sure it is well-stirred and smooth.
Can I make these bars vegan?
Yes, you can substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use maple syrup instead of honey.
What can I substitute for oat flour?
You can blend rolled oats in a blender or food processor to make oat flour. Alternatively, you can use whole wheat flour or almond flour, but this may change the texture slightly.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. They should also look slightly golden around the edges.
In Closing
There you have it! Peanut Butter Banana Bars are not only a delicious treat but also a versatile one that can easily adapt to your taste preferences. With their wholesome ingredients and delightful flavor, they’re bound to become a favorite in your home. Whether you enjoy them as a snack, breakfast, or dessert, these bars are sure to satisfy your cravings while keeping you fueled for the day ahead. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a batch of these delightful bars that are as nutritious as they are delicious!
Peanut Butter Banana Bars
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure your Peanut Butter Banana Bars bake evenly.
- Grease your baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed banana, creamy peanut butter, honey, vanilla extract, and light brown sugar. Whisk until well combined and smooth.
- Crack in the large egg and mix until fully incorporated into the wet ingredients.
- Sprinkle in the salt, baking soda, and baking powder. Then, add the oat flour and mix until just combined.
- Gently fold in the peanut butter baking chips or chocolate chips.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, let the bars cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before cutting.
Notes
- These bars are perfect for meal prep and can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Wrap the bars individually and freeze them for up to 3 months.
- Warm in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy them gooey.
