Peanut Butter Banana Bars are a scrumptious treat that perfectly combines the flavors of creamy peanut butter and sweet, ripe bananas. This recipe is an ideal snack for any time of the day, whether you need an energy boost before a workout or a satisfying dessert after dinner. These bars are simple to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients, and they can be made in just one bowl, making cleanup a breeze. The texture is soft yet firm, allowing the bars to hold their shape while being deliciously chewy. This unique treat is naturally sweetened by the bananas, which not only add moisture but also infuse the bars with a rich, fruity flavor. The addition of peanut butter not only enhances the taste but also provides a wonderful nutty aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake. Serve them warm or at room temperature, and you have a delightful snack that will impress family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

There are numerous reasons to fall in love with Peanut Butter Banana Bars. First and foremost, the taste is unbeatable. The combination of peanut butter and bananas creates a harmonious balance of sweet and savory flavors that make each bite enjoyable. Secondly, the ease of preparation is a significant advantage. With just a few simple steps and no complicated techniques, anyone can whip up these bars in no time. This makes it a perfect recipe for beginner bakers or those who want a quick and satisfying snack. Furthermore, the appearance of these bars is inviting. Golden-brown on the outside with a soft, moist interior, they look as good as they taste. Finally, they are versatile. You can customize the bars with various mix-ins or toppings, making them a fun and adaptable option for different palates. Whether you enjoy them plain or with added ingredients, these bars are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients:

To make Peanut Butter Banana Bars, you will need the following ingredients:

3 ripe bananas (about 1 ½ cups mashed) – The key to flavor and moisture, ripe bananas provide natural sweetness and a rich, fruity taste. Ensure they are well-mashed for even distribution throughout the bars.
1 cup creamy peanut butter – This ingredient adds depth to the flavor and creates a deliciously nutty aroma. Using creamy peanut butter ensures a smooth texture that blends beautifully with the bananas.

1/2 cup honey or maple syrup – For additional sweetness, honey or maple syrup complements the bananas and peanut butter. It also helps bind the ingredients together, enhancing the bar’s texture.
2 large eggs – Eggs act as a binding agent, providing structure and stability to the bars while keeping them moist.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – While not always necessary, adding vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile, giving a subtle warmth to the bars.

1 ½ cups rolled oats – Oats add a hearty texture to the bars, making them more filling and providing a chewy bite.
1 teaspoon baking soda – This leavening agent helps the bars rise slightly, resulting in a light and airy texture.
1/2 teaspoon salt – A small amount of salt balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

Optional mix-ins (1/2 cup total): You can add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruits for added texture and flavor. These optional ingredients can elevate your bars and cater to your personal preferences.

How To Make Peanut Butter Banana Bars?

Making Peanut Butter Banana Bars is straightforward and can be done in just a few simple steps. Follow this detailed guide to create your delicious bars:

Preheat your oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the bars bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden-brown color.
Prepare the baking dish: Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang on the sides. This will help you lift the bars out of the dish once they are baked. If you prefer, you can also lightly grease the dish with non-stick spray.
Mash the bananas: In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas using a fork or potato masher until smooth. You want to eliminate any chunks to ensure even distribution throughout the bars.

Add the wet ingredients: To the mashed bananas, add the creamy peanut butter, honey or maple syrup, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully combined and the mixture is smooth.
Combine the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the rolled oats, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures even distribution of the dry ingredients, preventing clumps in your batter.
Mix everything together: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. If you are using any optional mix-ins, fold them in gently at this stage to avoid overmixing.

Transfer the batter: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. This ensures uniform baking and allows for even texture throughout the bars.
Bake the bars: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and cut: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, use the parchment paper to lift the bars out of the dish and onto a wire rack to cool completely before cutting into squares.

Tips For Variations:

Peanut Butter Banana Bars are incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize them based on your taste preferences or available ingredients. Here are some unique substitution ideas to enhance flavor and texture:

Nut Butters: Experiment with different nut butters such as almond butter or cashew butter for a unique twist. Each nut butter brings its distinct flavor and texture, adding variety to your bars.
Sweeteners: While honey and maple syrup are excellent choices, you can try using agave nectar, coconut sugar, or even date paste for a different sweetness profile. Just keep in mind that the consistency may vary slightly.

Fruits: Add shredded coconut, dried cranberries, or raisins to the mixture for added sweetness and texture. Fresh fruits like blueberries or chopped apples can also be incorporated for a fresh burst of flavor.
Spices: Enhance the flavor by adding spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a pinch of cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist. These spices can elevate the overall taste and aroma of the bars.
Gluten-Free Option: To make these bars gluten-free, substitute regular rolled oats with certified gluten-free oats. This ensures that everyone can enjoy this delicious treat without concern.

Nut-Free Version: If you need a nut-free option, replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter. It provides a similar creamy texture and flavor without using nuts.

Serving Suggestions:

Peanut Butter Banana Bars are not only delicious on their own but can also be served in various creative ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your enjoyment:

Warm with a drizzle: Serve the bars warm, drizzled with additional peanut butter or a dollop of yogurt. This enhances the flavor and adds a creamy texture that complements the bars beautifully.
With toppings: Top the bars with sliced fresh bananas, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a handful of nuts for added crunch and flavor. This adds a visually appealing touch and makes the bars even more satisfying.
As a breakfast option: Pair the bars with a side of fresh fruit or a smoothie for a quick and nutritious breakfast on the go. They are filling and provide sustained energy throughout the morning.

For dessert: Serve the bars as a dessert alongside a scoop of your favorite ice cream. The warm bars paired with cold ice cream create a delightful contrast that is sure to please.
Pack for snacks: These bars are perfect for packing in lunchboxes or for on-the-go snacks. Individually wrap them in parchment paper for easy transport and a fresh taste anytime you need a quick bite.

FAQ:

Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen bananas. Just thaw them completely, drain any excess liquid, and mash them before incorporating them into the recipe.

How should I store the Peanut Butter Banana Bars?

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months.

Can I make these bars vegan?

Yes, you can make these bars vegan by replacing the eggs with a flaxseed meal or chia seed mixture. Use 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The bars are done when they are golden brown around the edges and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Can I add protein powder to the recipe?

Yes, you can add protein powder to the mixture. If you do, you may need to adjust the liquid ingredients to maintain the right consistency of the batter.

Peanut Butter Banana Bars

Peanut Butter Banana Bars are a scrumptious treat that perfectly combines the flavors of creamy peanut butter and sweet, ripe bananas. These bars are simple to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients, and they can be made in just one bowl, making cleanup a breeze.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Total Time 45

Course Snack

Cuisine American

Servings 12 servings

Calories 150 kcal

Equipment

Mixing Bowl
Baking Dish

Fork or Potato Masher

Ingredients

3 large Ripe Bananas About 1 ½ cups mashed, key for flavor and moisture.
1 cup Creamy Peanut Butter Adds depth to flavor and creates a deliciously nutty aroma.

1/2 cup Honey or Maple Syrup For additional sweetness and helps bind ingredients.
2 large Eggs Acts as a binding agent for structure and moisture.
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Enhances overall flavor profile.

1 ½ cups Rolled Oats Adds hearty texture and chewiness.
1 teaspoon Baking Soda Helps the bars rise slightly.
1/2 teaspoon Salt Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.

1/2 cup Optional Mix-ins Chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruits.

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.

Mash the ripe bananas in a large mixing bowl until smooth.
Add the peanut butter, honey or maple syrup, eggs, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas and mix well.
In a separate bowl, mix the rolled oats, baking soda, and salt.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.