Get ready to transform your snacking experience with these irresistible homemade granola bars that are about to become your new obsession! Imagine biting into a perfectly balanced treat that combines the creamy richness of peanut butter, the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, and the decadent crunch of chocolate chips. These aren't just any granola bars – they're a game-changing, nutrient-packed powerhouse that will satisfy your cravings and keep you energized throughout the day.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Snack
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas thoroughly until they become a smooth puree. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful the bars will be.
- Add the peanut butter and honey to the mashed bananas. Mix well until all ingredients are completely combined and create a smooth, consistent mixture.
- Fold in the rolled oats, ensuring they are evenly coated with the banana-peanut butter mixture. The oats will help bind the bars together and provide a hearty texture.
- Gently stir in the chocolate chips and chopped nuts (if using). Reserve a small handful of chocolate chips to sprinkle on top for visual appeal.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly and pressing down firmly with a spatula or the back of a spoon to create a compact layer.
- Sprinkle the reserved chocolate chips on top, gently pressing them into the surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the top is set.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan for about 30 minutes. The bars will firm up as they cool.
- Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the entire batch out of the pan and transfer to a cutting board.
- Cut into 12 even bars using a sharp knife. For clean cuts, wipe the knife between slices.
- Store the granola bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
Tips
- Banana Selection: Choose overripe bananas with plenty of brown spots for maximum natural sweetness and better binding.
- Peanut Butter Pro Tip: Use natural, creamy peanut butter for the best texture and healthiest option.
- Customization Hack: Feel free to swap chocolate chips with dried fruit or add seeds for extra nutrition.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow bars to cool completely before cutting to ensure they hold their shape.
- Storage Secret: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap for easy grab-and-go snacks that stay fresh longer.
- Texture Trick: Press the mixture firmly into the pan to create dense, chewy bars that won't crumble.
- Make-Ahead Magic: These bars can be prepared in advance and stored for up to a week, making meal prep a breeze!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
