4 Ingredient Peanut Butter Banana Bars Recipe
Introduction
These Peanut Butter Banana Bars are a quick, wholesome snack made with just a few simple ingredients. Naturally sweetened by ripe bananas and enriched with creamy peanut butter, they’re perfect for breakfast or an energy boost anytime.
Ingredients
- 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
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until almost smooth. Stir in the peanut butter and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Step 3: Add the oats, salt, and baking powder to the banana mixture. Mix everything thoroughly to combine. Fold in one-third of the chocolate chips, saving the rest for topping.
- Step 4: Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Use a spoon or spatula to smooth the surface. Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips evenly over the top.
- Step 5: Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the bars cool completely before slicing into 6 to 8 pieces.
Tips & Variations
- For a nuttier texture, swap smooth peanut butter for crunchy. You can also substitute with almond or cashew butter for a different flavor.
- Add a handful of chopped nuts or dried fruit to the batter for extra texture and taste.
- Use dark or white chocolate chips to vary the sweetness and style.
- If you prefer, bake in a square pan and cut into smaller squares instead of bars.
Storage
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them refrigerated for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat briefly in the microwave or enjoy chilled.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use old-fashioned oats instead of quick oats?
Yes, but the texture will be chewier and the bars might not hold together as well. For best results, pulse old-fashioned oats in a food processor to break them down slightly before using.
Are these bars gluten-free?
They can be if you use certified gluten-free oats. Always check the packaging to ensure no cross-contamination.
Print4 Ingredient Peanut Butter Banana Bars Recipe
These 4 Ingredient Peanut Butter Banana Bars are a simple, wholesome, and delicious treat perfect for breakfast or a snack. Made with ripe bananas, smooth peanut butter, oats, and chocolate chips, they combine natural sweetness and protein for a satisfying bite. With minimal ingredients and easy steps, they are ideal for a quick homemade indulgence without refined sugars or complicated prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 bars 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 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 (divided)
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a loaf pan by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mash bananas and mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, mash the very ripe bananas until nearly smooth. Add the smooth peanut butter and vanilla extract, then mix well until fully combined.
- Add dry ingredients: Stir in the instant or quick cooking oats, salt, and baking powder until the mixture is evenly combined. Gently fold in one-third of the chocolate chips, saving the remainder for topping.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the surface with a spoon or spatula. Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips evenly on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a knife inserted into the center of the bars comes out clean.
- Cool and serve: Remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, cut into 6 to 8 pieces and enjoy as a nutritious snack or a quick breakfast.
Notes
- Use very ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture.
- Natural peanut butter with no added sugar or oil works best for a healthier option.
- Quick oats work better than rolled oats as they help bind the bars together.
- If you prefer, substitute chocolate chips with nuts or dried fruits.
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
Keywords: peanut butter banana bars, 4 ingredient bars, healthy snack, banana oat bars, quick breakfast bars
