Get ready to revolutionize your snack game with the most irresistible bars you'll ever taste! Imagine a mouthwatering fusion of creamy peanut butter, sweet ripe bananas, and decadent chocolate chips, all nestled in a perfectly chewy oatmeal base. These bars aren't just a recipe; they're a one-way ticket to flavor paradise that will have your taste buds dancing and your family begging for more. Whether you're a busy parent, a health-conscious foodie, or just someone who loves mind-blowing desserts, these bars are about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
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 banana thoroughly using a fork until it becomes a smooth puree.
- Add peanut butter, honey, vanilla extract, and salt to the mashed banana. Mix well until all ingredients are completely combined and form a smooth, consistent mixture.
- Fold in the rolled oats, stirring until the oats are evenly coated with the wet ingredients.
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips, distributing them evenly throughout the mixture.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly and press it down firmly into all corners.
- 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 in the pan for 15 minutes at room temperature.
- Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the bars out of the pan and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once fully cooled, cut into 12 even bars using a sharp knife.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for extended freshness.
Tips
- Use ultra-ripe bananas for maximum natural sweetness and moisture
- Make sure your peanut butter is at room temperature for easier mixing
- Press the mixture firmly into the pan to ensure compact, cohesive bars
- Let the bars cool completely before cutting to maintain their structure
- For extra indulgence, slightly warm the bars before serving
- Experiment with different chocolate chip varieties like dark, milk, or semi-sweet
- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and soft texture
- For a protein boost, consider adding a scoop of protein powder to the mixture
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 0mg
