Looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious snack or dessert? These 3-ingredient banana peanut butter oat bars are the perfect solution! Simple to make and packed with wholesome ingredients, they're ideal for busy weeknights or satisfying those sweet cravings without the guilt. This recipe requires minimal prep time and uses ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Let's dive in!
What You'll Need:
You only need three core ingredients for this recipe:
- Overripe Bananas (3 medium): The riper the better! Overripe bananas are sweeter and create a naturally moist bar.
- Peanut Butter (1 cup): Use your favorite kind – creamy or crunchy, natural or not. Natural peanut butter might require a little extra mixing.
- Rolled Oats (2 cups): Old-fashioned rolled oats are best for their texture and ability to hold their shape.
Instructions:
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Mash the Bananas: In a large bowl, mash the bananas thoroughly using a fork. The smoother the banana puree, the better the bars will hold together.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the peanut butter and rolled oats to the mashed bananas. Mix everything together until well combined. You might need to use your hands to ensure all the oats are coated in the banana-peanut butter mixture.
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Shape the Bars: Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to make lifting the bars easier later. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared pan.
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Chill and Slice: Refrigerate the bars for at least 30 minutes to allow them to firm up. Once chilled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang and slice into squares.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I add other ingredients to these 3-ingredient banana peanut butter oat bars?
Absolutely! While the simplicity of this recipe is its charm, you can easily customize it. Consider adding:
- Chocolate chips: For an extra chocolatey indulgence.
- Seeds (chia, flax, or sunflower): To boost the nutritional value and add texture.
- Spices (cinnamon, nutmeg): To add warmth and flavor.
- Dried fruit (raisins, cranberries): For added sweetness and chewiness.
How long do these bars last?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, these bars will last for about 3-4 days. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
What are some variations of this recipe?
You can easily swap out the peanut butter for other nut butters like almond butter or cashew butter. You could also experiment with different types of oats, although rolled oats work best for this recipe's texture.
Are these bars healthy?
Yes, these bars are relatively healthy! They are a good source of fiber from the oats and bananas, and provide healthy fats from the peanut butter. However, remember that they are still a treat, so moderation is key.
Can I bake these bars instead of refrigerating them?
While these bars are delicious made without baking, you can bake them if you prefer. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Conclusion:
These 3-ingredient banana peanut butter oat bars are a simple, healthy, and incredibly satisfying snack or dessert. The ease of preparation and the delicious flavor make them a perfect choice for busy individuals or families. Enjoy!
