5 Ingredient Peanut Butter and Banana Energy Bars
User Reviews
4.9
5 Ingredient Peanut Butter and Banana Energy Bars
Description
The 5 Ingredient Peanut Butter and Banana Energy Bars use mashed ripe bananas mixed with peanut butter, honey, oats, and sliced almonds to create a dense but soft bar. Optional cinnamon and vanilla extract enhance the flavor without overpowering the natural sweetness of bananas and peanut butter.
The mixture is pressed into a baking dish then baked until golden brown on the edges. The oats provide chewiness, while the almonds add a slight crunch and nuttiness. The final bars balance sweet and nutty flavors with comforting spices.
Once cooled, the bars are firm enough to cut into squares and are ideal for snack time or a portable energy boost. They store well at room temperature for up to one week or can be frozen for longer storage. Variations include adding chocolate chips or substituting nut butters and nuts for dietary needs. Adding a pinch of salt can improve flavor if using unsalted peanut butter.
Ingredients
- 3 banana very ripe
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup, for a vegan version
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon optional
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract optional
- 2 cups old-fashioned oats
- 1 cup almonds or other nut/seed combination, sliced
Instructions
- Using a hand or standing mixer, mix the bananas, peanut butter (1 cup), honey (1/4 cup), cinnamon (1 teaspoon, optional), and vanilla extract (1 teaspoon, optional) until very smooth.
- Add oats (2 cups) and almonds (1 cup) and mix until combined.
- Turn out onto a parchment covered baking dish (about 9x9 inches). Press and flatten with a spatula until evenly distributed.
- Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes, or until golden brown on edges.
- Allow to cool completely before cutting bars.
- Store at room temperature for a week or freeze for up to 6 months in an airtight container or wrapped individually in plastic wrap.
Notes
- To customize, add chocolate chips or different spices like nutmeg for varied flavor.
- For a nut-free option, substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter and almonds with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower.
- Use gluten-free oats to make the bars appropriate for gluten-sensitive diets.
- If using unsalted peanut butter, add about 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt to enhance flavor balance.
- Store bars at room temperature for up to one week or freeze individually wrapped for up to six months.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 12bars
Amount Per Serving
Calories 278 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1bar | |
| Calories | 278kcal | 14% |
| Carbohydrates | 28g | 9% |
| Protein | 9g | 18% |
| Fat | 16g | 25% |
| Saturated Fat | 3g | 15% |
| Sodium | 100mg | 4% |
| Potassium | 361mg | 8% |
| Fiber | 5g | 20% |
| Sugar | 12g | 24% |
| Vitamin A | 19IU | 0% |
| Vitamin C | 3mg | 3% |
| Calcium | 43mg | 4% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.9
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