1. Can I make Peanut Butter Banana Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Bars without peanut butter?

Yes, you can easily substitute peanut butter with other nut or seed butters like almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version. Just ensure the alternative has a similar creamy consistency to maintain the bar’s texture.

2. Are these oatmeal bars suitable for a vegan or gluten-free diet?

Absolutely. To make them vegan , use dairy-free chocolate chips and plant-based milk. For a gluten-free version, simply use certified gluten-free oats. The rest of the ingredients are naturally free from animal products and gluten, making them ideal for both dietary needs.

3. How do I store and freeze these bars?

Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 10 days. For longer storage, freeze them in layers separated by parchment paper in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or for a few minutes at room temperature before serving.

Peanut Butter Banana Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Bars – Best Recipe

Name: Peanut Butter Banana Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 28 min
Total time: 1 h 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup (230g) mashed ripe bananas (about 3 medium bananas); 1/2 cup (125g) creamy or crunchy peanut butter; 1/4 cup (50g) coconut sugar or brown sugar; 1/4 cup (60g) unsweetened applesauce; 1/2 cup (120ml) almond milk or any milk; 2 1/2 cups (213g) old-fashioned whole oats or quick oats; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1 tsp pure vanilla extract; 1 cup (180g) semi-sweet chocolate chips (use dairy-free for vegan)

Description

These soft and chewy Peanut Butter Banana Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Bars are a wholesome, naturally gluten-free treat packed with ripe bananas, creamy peanut butter, hearty oats, and rich chocolate chips. They’re perfect for breakfast, snacking, or a healthier dessert option, and they’re easy to make in one bowl.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup (230g) mashed ripe bananas (about 3 medium bananas)
1/2 cup (125g) creamy or crunchy peanut butter
1/4 cup (50g) coconut sugar or brown sugar
1/4 cup (60g) unsweetened applesauce
1/2 cup (120ml) almond milk or any milk
2 1/2 cups (213g) old-fashioned whole oats or quick oats
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
1 cup (180g) semi-sweet chocolate chips (use dairy-free for vegan)

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides for easy removal.
In a large bowl, mash the bananas until smooth.
Add the peanut butter, sugar, applesauce, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Mix until combined.
Stir in the oats, baking powder, salt, and chocolate chips until fully incorporated. The batter will be thick but pourable.
Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan.
Bake for 25–28 minutes, or until the center is set but still soft.
Cool at room temperature for 30–60 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour for cleaner slicing.
Remove from the pan using the parchment overhang and cut into bars.

Notes

Use certified gluten-free oats for a gluten-free version.
To make vegan, use dairy-free chocolate chips and plant-based milk.
Store in the fridge for up to 10 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
You can substitute almond butter or sunflower seed butter for peanut butter.
Chilling helps bars firm up and slice cleanly.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 28 minutes
Category: Snack, Dessert, Breakfast
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 210
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 110mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 0mg