4 Ingredient Peanut Butter Banana Bars Recipe
Introduction
These 4 Ingredient Peanut Butter Banana Bars are a quick and healthy treat perfect for breakfast or a snack. Made with simple pantry staples, they combine the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with creamy peanut butter and a touch of chocolate. Enjoy these bars warm or chilled for a satisfying bite 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 bananas until they are almost smooth. Add the peanut butter and vanilla extract, then mix well to combine.
- Step 3: Stir in the oats, salt, and baking powder until everything is evenly mixed. Fold in one-third of the chocolate chips, reserving the rest for topping.
- Step 4: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it out evenly with a spoon or spatula. Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips on top.
- Step 5: Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into 6 to 8 pieces.
Tips & Variations
- Use crunchy peanut butter for added texture.
- Swap chocolate chips for chopped nuts or dried fruit if preferred.
- For a gluten-free option, make sure to use certified gluten-free oats.
- Adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the flavor.
Storage
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw before serving. Reheat gently in the microwave if you prefer them warm.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes, frozen bananas work well once thawed and mashed. Just make sure to drain any excess liquid before mixing.
Are these bars vegan?
The basic recipe is vegan if you use dairy-free chocolate chips and peanut butter without honey or other animal products.
Print4 Ingredient Peanut Butter Banana Bars Recipe
These easy 4 Ingredient Peanut Butter Banana Bars are a healthy and delicious snack or breakfast option. Made with ripe bananas, natural peanut butter, oats, and chocolate chips, they are naturally sweetened and perfect for a quick energy boost. Soft and moist with a touch of chocolate on top, these bars require minimal ingredients and simple steps, making them ideal for any time of day.
- 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
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
Additional
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (divided: 1/3 cup for batter, 1/6 cup for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal of the bars after baking.
- Mash Bananas and Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until almost smooth. Add the smooth peanut butter and vanilla extract, stirring well to combine into a uniform mixture.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Incorporate the instant or quick oats, salt, and baking powder into the wet mixture. Stir until everything is evenly combined. Fold in about 1/3 cup of the chocolate chips gently to distribute throughout the batter.
- Pour Batter and Add Topping: Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Use a spoon or spatula to smooth out the top evenly. Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips over the top for added texture and flavor.
- Bake: Place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating the bars are fully cooked.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely before slicing into 6 to 8 bars. This helps the bars set and makes slicing easier.
Notes
- Use very ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture.
- Natural or smooth peanut butter is best for easy mixing and smooth texture.
- Instant or quick oats are recommended for the best texture, but rolled oats can be substituted if processed slightly.
- Chocolate chips can be omitted or replaced with nuts or dried fruit for variation.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate up to a week.
Keywords: peanut butter bars, banana bars, healthy snacks, easy baking, 4 ingredient bars, breakfast bars
