Easy Peanut Butter Oatmeal Banana Bread Bars

As a busy mom, I know how challenging it can be to whip up something delicious and satisfying. That’s why I adore these Peanut Butter Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Bars with a Peanut Butter Oat Streusel. They’re not just a treat; they’re a quick solution for those hectic days when you need a healthy snack or a sweet dessert. With the rich flavors of peanut butter and chocolate, these bars are sure to impress your loved ones. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your counter!

Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Oatmeal Banana Bread Bars

• Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy days.
• Deliciously moist and packed with flavor from peanut butter and bananas.
• Great for meal prep; they store well for snacks throughout the week.
• Kids love them, making them a hit for family gatherings.
• Nutritious ingredients make them a healthier dessert option.

Ingredients for Peanut Butter Oatmeal Banana Bread Bars

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful bars. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture to the bars. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
• Peanut butter: The star of the show! You can use creamy or crunchy, depending on your texture preference.
• Light brown sugar: This sweetener gives a lovely caramel flavor and helps keep the bars moist.
• Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor, making it more aromatic.
• Eggs: They act as a binder, helping to hold everything together while adding moisture.
• Quick-cooking oats: These provide a hearty texture and are essential for that oatmeal goodness.
• Baking powder and baking soda: These leavening agents help the bars rise, giving them a light and fluffy texture.
• Mashed ripe bananas: The key to natural sweetness! Overripe bananas work best, as they’re sweeter and easier to mash.
• Chocolate chips: Because who can resist chocolate? They add a delightful burst of sweetness in every bite.

For the streusel topping, you’ll need:

• Peanut butter: Again, this adds flavor and richness to the crumbly topping.
• Light brown sugar: Just like in the bars, it adds sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor.
• Quick-cooking oats: These create that perfect crumbly texture for the streusel.
• Chocolate chips: A sprinkle of chocolate on top makes everything better!

For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find a printable version of the recipe. Happy baking!

How to Make Peanut Butter Oatmeal Banana Bread Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures even baking. While the oven warms up, grease your baking dish. I like to use a bit of butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. A well-prepared dish makes all the difference in achieving those perfect bars!

Step 2: Cream Together Butter and Peanut Butter

In a large bowl, combine the softened butter and peanut butter. Using a hand mixer or a sturdy spoon, cream them together until smooth and fluffy. This process incorporates air, giving your bars a light texture. Trust me, the creaminess of the peanut butter will make your bars irresistible!

Step 3: Add Vanilla and Eggs

Next, add the vanilla extract and eggs to the creamed mixture. Mix until everything is well combined. The vanilla adds a warm aroma, while the eggs bind the ingredients together. This step is essential for creating a cohesive batter that holds up beautifully when baked.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the quick-cooking oats, baking powder, and baking soda. This is where the magic begins! The oats provide that hearty texture, while the baking powder and soda help the bars rise. Make sure to whisk them well to evenly distribute the leavening agents.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now, it’s time to combine the wet and dry ingredients. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently. Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep that lovely texture. Just mix until everything is combined, and you’ll be on your way to delicious peanut butter banana bars!

Step 6: Fold in Bananas and Chocolate Chips

Here comes the fun part! Gently fold in the mashed bananas and chocolate chips. Folding is a technique that helps maintain the airiness of the batter. You want those sweet chunks of banana and chocolate to be evenly distributed without deflating your mixture. It’s like a little surprise in every bite!

Step 7: Pour Batter into Baking Dish

Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. This ensures that your bars bake uniformly. I like to use a spatula to smooth the top. A well-spread batter leads to consistent baking, so take a moment to get it just right!

Step 8: Prepare the Streusel Topping

In a separate bowl, mix together the ingredients for the streusel topping. Combine the peanut butter, light brown sugar, quick-cooking oats, and chocolate chips until crumbly. You want a texture that resembles coarse sand. This topping adds a delightful crunch and extra flavor to your bars!

Step 9: Bake the Bars

Now, it’s time to bake! Place your dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly!

Step 10: Cool and Cut into Bars

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a bit. This cooling period is essential for the bars to set properly. After about 10-15 minutes, cut them into squares. For neat bars, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts. Enjoy your delicious Peanut Butter Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Bars!

Tips for Success

• Use overripe bananas for maximum sweetness and flavor.
• Don’t skip the creaming step; it’s key for a light texture.
• Be gentle when folding in the bananas and chocolate chips to keep the batter airy.
• Let the bars cool completely before cutting for cleaner edges.
• Experiment with different nut butters for a unique twist!

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls: A set of various sizes is handy; you can use any large bowl you have.
• Hand mixer or whisk: A hand mixer makes it easier, but a whisk works just fine.
• Baking dish: A 9×13 inch dish is ideal; any similar-sized dish will do.
• Spatula: Great for spreading the batter; a wooden spoon can also work.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accuracy; you can use any standard measuring tools.

Variations To Try

• Nut-Free Option: Substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free alternative.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use certified gluten-free oats and a gluten-free flour blend to make these bars gluten-free.
• Fruit Add-Ins: Toss in some chopped nuts, dried fruits, or even fresh blueberries for added flavor and texture.
• Chocolate Lovers: Swap half of the chocolate chips for dark chocolate or white chocolate for a different twist.
• Spiced Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a glass of cold milk for a classic combination.
• Serve warm with a dollop of Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
• Top with fresh fruit like sliced bananas or strawberries for a colorful presentation.
• Enjoy as a quick breakfast on the go or a satisfying afternoon snack.
• Drizzle with honey or maple syrup for an extra touch of sweetness.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Making these Peanut Butter Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Bars with a Peanut Butter Oat Streusel is more than just baking; it’s about creating moments of joy in your kitchen. The delightful aroma that fills your home as they bake is simply irresistible. Each bite is a warm hug, combining the rich flavors of peanut butter and chocolate with the sweetness of ripe bananas. Whether you’re enjoying them as a quick breakfast or a sweet afternoon snack, these bars are sure to bring smiles to your family’s faces. Trust me, they’ll become a cherished favorite in no time!

Peanut Butter Oatmeal Banana Bread Bars

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• Author: sandy
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 12 bars 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

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Description

Delicious and easy-to-make Peanut Butter Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Bars topped with a Peanut Butter Oat Streusel.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup creamy or crunchy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups quick-cooking oats
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 and 1/2 cups mashed ripe banana (about 4 medium ripe bananas)
• 1 cup chocolate chips

• 1/2 cup creamy or crunchy peanut butter (for streusel)
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar (for streusel)
• 1/2 cup quick-cooking oats (for streusel)
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips (for streusel)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, peanut butter, and light brown sugar until smooth.
3. Add the vanilla and eggs, mixing until well combined.
4. In another bowl, combine the quick-cooking oats, baking powder, and baking soda.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Fold in the mashed bananas and chocolate chips.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
8. In a separate bowl, mix together the ingredients for the streusel until crumbly.
9. Sprinkle the streusel mixture over the top of the batter.
10. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
11. Allow to cool before cutting into bars.

Notes

• Use overripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• These bars can be frozen for longer storage.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: Peanut Butter Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Bars, healthy banana snack bars, peanut butter banana bars, easy banana dessert, overripe banana recipe