4 Ingredient Peanut Butter Banana Bars Recipe
Delicious and easy 4 Ingredient Peanut Butter Banana Bars that combine ripe bananas, creamy peanut butter, oats, and chocolate chips for a wholesome, naturally sweet treat. Perfect for a quick snack or breakfast option, these bars are soft, moist, and packed with flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 bars 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Wet Ingredients
- 3 very ripe bananas
- 1/4 cup smooth (natural) peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cup instant or quick cooking oats
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Add-ins
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mash Bananas and Mix: Place the ripe bananas in a large bowl and mash them until almost 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, mixing everything to combine evenly. Fold in one third (about 1/3 cup) of the chocolate chips, reserving the rest for topping.
- Prepare for Baking: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and use a spoon or spatula to smooth the top. Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips evenly over the surface.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into 6 to 8 pieces. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Use very ripe bananas for natural sweetness and moisture.
- Natural peanut butter works best for a smooth texture and flavor.
- Instant or quick oats absorb moisture well and provide a tender crumb.
- Chocolate chips are optional but add a delightful touch of sweetness.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- These bars can be frozen for longer storage; thaw before serving.
Keywords: peanut butter banana bars, healthy snack bars, easy banana bars, 4 ingredient snack, peanut butter recipes, banana dessert, healthy breakfast