Effortless Banana Peanut Butter (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Main Components
01 -
1 ½ cups oats, rolled or old-fashioned
02 -
2 medium bananas, well-mashed
03 -
¼ teaspoon fine salt
04 -
½ cup smooth peanut butter
05 -
¼ cup honey or pure maple syrup
06 -
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
→ Extra Mix-Ins
07 -
¼ cup raisins or dark chocolate chips
08 -
2 tablespoons nuts, chopped up
09 -
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
# Instructions:
01 -
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take an 8x8-inch pan and line it with parchment, letting the ends hang over the edges so you can pull out the bars easily, or coat the pan lightly with non-stick spray.
02 -
Use a fork to mash up bananas in a big mixing bowl until they're free of chunks and smooth. Mix in the vanilla, honey or maple syrup, and peanut butter. Stir until everything comes together smoothly.
03 -
Add the oats and salt to the bowl with the wet mixture. Mix until everything's evenly coated. If you're using extras like raisins, chocolate chips, or nuts, gently fold them in now.
04 -
Transfer the mixture into your lined or greased pan. Push it down firmly and level out the top with a spatula or the back of a spoon to ensure even cooking.
05 -
Pop the pan into your preheated oven. Let it bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges have a golden color and the middle feels firm when tapped.
06 -
After baking, leave everything in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, lift out using the parchment paper overhang and place on a cooling rack. Let it cool down completely before cutting it into about 12 bars or however many pieces you like.
# Notes:
01 -
Keep the bars sealed in an airtight container. They'll last for about 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the fridge.
02 -
If freezing, wrap individual portions in plastic and store for up to 3 months. Defrost at room temp or in the microwave for 20-30 seconds.
03 -
You can mix in extras like shredded coconut, a sprinkle of nutmeg, or seeds like chia and flax for more nutrition and flavor.