Name: Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 28 min
Total time: 38 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/2 cup natural peanut butter; 1/4 cup maple syrup; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 egg; 1 1/2 cups old fashioned rolled oats; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp cinnamon; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/3 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Why You’ll Love Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Bars Recipe

• Simple and wholesome with pantry-friendly ingredients
• Naturally sweetened with bananas and maple syrup—no refined sugar
• Great for meal prep or a midday snack that keeps you full

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
3 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup natural peanut butter
1/4 cup maple syrup
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups rolled oats
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×9 baking dish with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas. Stir in peanut butter, maple syrup, egg, and vanilla until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together rolled oats, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt.
Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until combined. Fold in the chocolate chips if using.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
Bake for 28–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow to cool before cutting into bars.

Servings and timing

• Makes about 12 bars
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Use almond or cashew butter instead of peanut butter for a different flavor
• Add chopped nuts, seeds, or dried fruit to the batter for extra texture
• Substitute chocolate chips with white chocolate or peanut butter chips
• Use a flax egg to make it vegan
• Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking for a sweet-salty finish

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover oatmeal bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
For longer storage, freeze the bars in a freezer-safe container for up to six months.
To reheat, warm individual bars in the microwave for about 15–30 seconds, or enjoy them at room temperature.

FAQs

How do I know when the bars are fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the bars are done.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes—just be sure to use certified gluten-free oats.

Can I make these vegan?

Yes, swap the egg for a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water).

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth?

Yes! Crunchy peanut butter will add texture to the bars.

What can I substitute for maple syrup?

Honey can be used as a substitute, though the flavor will vary slightly.

Can I add nuts or seeds?

Yes—chopped walnuts, pecans, or seeds can be mixed into the batter.

How long do these bars keep?

Stored properly, they last about a week at room temperature.

Can I freeze these bars?

Yes—freeze them for up to six months; thaw before eating.

Are these bars suitable for breakfast?

Absolutely—they’re balanced with oats, fruit, and peanut butter for a quick breakfast option.

Can I reduce the chocolate chips?

Yes—leave them out for a less sweet version or use a different mix-in like dried fruit.

Conclusion

These peanut butter banana oatmeal bars are a deliciously wholesome treat that’s easy to make and perfect for breakfast or snacking. With simple ingredients and flexible storage options, they’re a great recipe to add to your baking rotation.