Name: Peanut Butter Banana Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter; 1/4 cup maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup rolled oats; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Why You’ll Love Peanut Butter Banana Bars Recipe

It uses very few ingredients — easy, pantry-friendly, and ideal when you want a quick baking project.
The combination of banana, oats, and peanut butter makes these bars filling and nutritious, giving you a good mix of natural sweetness, fiber, and healthy fats.
They’re versatile: you can keep them plain or add extras (nuts, seeds, spices) to match your taste, and make a batch ahead for breakfasts or snacks throughout the week.
Great for all ages — simple enough for kids to help make, yet satisfying for adults.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

3 very ripe bananas
1/4 cup smooth natural peanut butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/4 cup instant or quick cooking oats
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 cup chocolate chips

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (about 175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, mash the very ripe bananas until nearly smooth. Add the peanut butter and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
Stir in the oats, salt, and baking powder until everything is evenly mixed. Gently fold in about 1/3 cup of the chocolate chips (reserve the rest for topping, if using).
Pour the mixture into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula or spoon. Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips on top.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool, then cut into 6 to 8 bars.

Servings and timing

Makes about 6–8 bars.
Prep time: ~5 minutes
Cook time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: about 35 minutes

Variations

Skip the chocolate chips if you prefer a simpler, less sweet bar.
Add chopped nuts (e.g. walnuts or peanuts), shredded coconut, or seeds (flax, hemp) for extra texture and nutrition.
Stir in a pinch of cinnamon or a drop of honey/maple syrup if your bananas aren’t very sweet.
Substitute peanut butter with another nut or seed butter (e.g. almond butter) — though flavor and texture may vary slightly.

Storage/Reheating

Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for 3–4 days.
For longer storage, freeze them (in a sealed container or bag) for up to 3 months. To eat, simply thaw and enjoy — or warm briefly in the microwave if you prefer them soft and warm.

FAQs

Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes — frozen bananas work fine. Just thaw them first (on the counter or gently in the microwave), then mash and proceed with the recipe.

Can I use a different type of oats, like steel-cut oats?

It’s not recommended. Quick or instant oats (or old‑fashioned rolled oats) work best. Steel-cut oats won’t give the right texture.

What size pan should I use?

A standard 9×5‑inch (or similar loaf pan) works well.

Can I make a double batch?

Yes — a double batch can work, but if you use a larger pan (like 9×13”), you may need to increase baking time.

My bananas aren’t ripe — can I still use them?

You can. The bars may be less sweet. To increase sweetness, you could add a bit of maple syrup or let bananas ripen more (you can speed‑ripen by placing them in the oven for 10–15 minutes at 350°F until they darken).

Can I skip salt, baking powder, or vanilla extract?

Yes. The recipe’s “main” ingredients are bananas, oats, and peanut butter — the rest are optional supporting ingredients. The bars will still work without them.

Can I make them without chocolate chips?

Yes. The chocolate chips add sweetness and texture — but are optional if you prefer a simpler bar or less sugar.

Can I add other mix‑ins?

Absolutely — chopped nuts, coconut, seeds, spices, even a swirl of nut butter or a bit of honey/maple syrup are all good options depending on your taste.

How should I store leftovers?

Store at room temperature for up to 3–4 days. For longer storage, freeze (up to 3 months); thaw before eating.

Are these bars suitable for kids?

Yes — many people make this recipe with kids. It’s simple, uses wholesome ingredients, and can be a healthy snack or breakfast option for children and adults alike.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious treat that doesn’t require fancy ingredients or complicated steps, these peanut butter banana bars are a perfect go‑to. Soft, naturally sweet, and easy to customize — they’re ideal for breakfast on the go, a mid‑day snack, or a guilt‑free dessert. Give them a try and enjoy the simplicity and flavor.