Name: Banana Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars
Prep time: 1 h 10 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: healthy
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas (mashed); 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats; 1/4 cup ground flaxseed (optional); 1/4 cup chopped nuts; 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips or dried fruit (optional); Pinch of salt

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Craving something sweet, satisfying, and healthy that doesn’t require turning on the oven? These Banana Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars are the answer. They’re no-bake, super easy to make, and packed with feel-good ingredients. Ripe bananas bring natural sweetness, peanut butter adds creamy richness, and rolled oats provide that hearty, chewy bite.

Ideal for breakfast, dessert, or a midday snack, these bars are flexible and fuss-free. Plus, they’re endlessly customizable depending on what you’ve got in your pantry.

Banana Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Naturally sweetened with ripe bananas and honey or maple syrup
No baking required—just mix, chill, and slice
Packed with fiber and protein from oats, nuts, and peanut butter
Perfect for kids and adults alike
Customizable with add-ins like chocolate chips, dried fruit, or flaxseed

Tip: You can find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

Ingredients

2 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 cup)
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (natural works great)
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (adjust for desired sweetness)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats (use gluten-free oats if needed)
1/4 cup ground flaxseed (optional, for a nutrition boost)
1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
1/4 cup mini chocolate chips or dried fruit (optional)
Pinch of salt

Instructions

In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
Add the peanut butter, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is well combined.
Mix in the oats, ground flaxseed (if using), and a pinch of salt. Stir until fully incorporated.
Fold in any optional add-ins like chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit.
Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy lifting later.
Transfer the mixture into the prepared dish. Press it down firmly and evenly using a spatula or clean hands.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the bars are firm and set.
Once set, lift the mixture out of the pan using the parchment paper. Place on a cutting board and slice into bars or squares.

Variations

Add shredded coconut for tropical flair
Swap peanut butter with almond or cashew butter
Use dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped dates in place of chocolate chips
Mix in a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for warm spice
Add a scoop of protein powder for an extra energy boost

Storage and Reheating

Fridge: Store bars in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

Freezer: Freeze individually wrapped bars for up to 2 months. Let thaw at room temperature for about 15 minutes before enjoying.

Reheating: Not needed! These are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, though the texture will be softer and a little less chewy.

Is there a substitute for peanut butter?

Absolutely. Try almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or cashew butter.

Can I make this vegan?

Yes—just use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free.

How ripe should the bananas be?

The riper, the better. Soft, spotty bananas are ideal for maximum sweetness and flavor.

Are these gluten-free?

They can be! Just make sure your oats are certified gluten-free.

Can I make this nut-free?

Yes, use sunflower seed butter and skip the chopped nuts.

Can I add protein powder?

Definitely. Just reduce the oats slightly or add a bit more banana or nut butter to keep the texture balanced.

How do I prevent the bars from crumbling?

Be sure to press the mixture firmly into the pan and chill long enough to set properly.

Can I bake them instead?

You can, but it’s not necessary. If you prefer baked texture, try baking at 325°F for 20–25 minutes.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Use a 9×13-inch pan and adjust chill time slightly if needed.

Conclusion

These Banana Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars prove that wholesome can still mean delicious. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up a batch of chewy, satisfying bars that work for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. No oven, no stress—just real ingredients and irresistible flavor.

Chef sara