No-Bake Banana Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars (Print Version)
Easy No-Bake Banana Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars are a healthy, satisfying snack or breakfast. Simple to make with wholesome ingredients, perfect for meal prep.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 30 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 12 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Vegetarian
# Ingredients:
→ No-Bake Foundation
01 -
2 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
02 -
1/4 cup ground flaxseed meal
03 -
1/2 tsp sea salt
→ Sweet & Creamy Binder
04 -
1 cup natural creamy peanut butter
05 -
1/2 cup pure maple syrup
06 -
1/4 cup melted coconut oil
07 -
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
→ Fruity Freshness
08 -
2 medium ripe bananas, mashed (about 3/4 cup)
→ Optional Crunch & Swirl
09 -
1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
10 -
1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts
11 -
2 tbsp natural creamy peanut butter, melted (for drizzle)
# Instructions:
01 -
Line an 8x8 or 9x9 inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy lifting. This ensures your Easy No-Bake Banana Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars can be removed cleanly once set.
02 -
In a large bowl, combine 2 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats, 1/4 cup ground flaxseed meal, and 1/2 tsp sea salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until well combined, forming the base for your delicious bars.
03 -
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup natural creamy peanut butter, 1/2 cup pure maple syrup, 1/4 cup melted coconut oil, and 1 tsp pure vanilla extract until smooth and fully incorporated.
04 -
Pour the wet binder mixture into the dry oat mixture. Add 2 medium ripe bananas, mashed (about 3/4 cup). Stir vigorously with a sturdy spoon or spatula until everything is thoroughly combined and sticky.
05 -
Gently fold in 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips and 1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts, if using. Distribute them evenly throughout the mixture to add extra texture and flavor to your Easy No-Bake Banana Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars.
06 -
Transfer the entire mixture into the prepared baking pan. Using the back of a spoon or your hands, press the mixture down very firmly and evenly into the pan. Compacting it well is key for firm bars.
07 -
Refrigerate the pan for at least 2-3 hours, or until the bars are completely firm. This crucial chilling time allows the Easy No-Bake Banana Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars to set properly before slicing.
08 -
Once firm, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Drizzle with 2 tbsp natural creamy peanut butter, melted, if desired, to finish your Easy No-Bake Banana Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars. Cut into 12 squares and serve immediately.
# Notes:
01 -
Store these bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days. They can also be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw in the fridge before serving.
02 -
Feel free to substitute almond butter or cashew butter for peanut butter if preferred. For a vegan option, ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free.
03 -
Use very ripe bananas (with brown spots) for the best flavor and natural sweetness. They are easier to mash and integrate into the mixture.
04 -
For extra firm bars, especially in warmer climates, you can increase the coconut oil by 1-2 tablespoons, or add an extra tablespoon of flaxseed meal.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
8x8 inch baking dish
02 -
parchment paper
03 -
large mixing bowl
04 -
medium mixing bowl
05 -
measuring cups
06 -
measuring spoons
07 -
spatula
08 -
fork or potato masher
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 386 kcal
Total Fat: 22 g
Total Carbohydrate: 39 g
Protein: 10 g