These peanut butter–banana oatmeal bars are a perfect grab-and-go breakfast, packed with protein to keep you full and energized. The combination of oats, peanut butter and banana provides a well-balanced dose of fiber, healthy fats and natural sweetness. Plus, they’re easy to make in advance and customize with mix-ins like dark chocolate chips or chopped nuts. Whether you need a quick morning bite or a post-workout snack, these bars are the perfect choice!
High-Protein Peanut Butter–Banana Oatmeal Bars
These peanut butter–banana oatmeal bars are a perfect grab-and-go breakfast, packed with protein to keep you full and energized. The combination of oats, peanut butter and banana provides a well-balanced dose of fiber, healthy fats and natural sweetness. Plus, they’re easy to make in advance and customize with mix-ins like dark chocolate chips or chopped nuts. Whether you need a quick morning bite or a post-workout snack, these bars are the perfect choice!
Ingredients
- 1¼ cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup whole-wheat flour
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1¼ cups mashed ripe banana about 3 medium bananas
- 6 tablespoons smooth natural peanut butter divided
- ¼ cup whole milk
- ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly coat a 9-inch square baking pan with cooking spray.
- Whisk 1¼ cups oats, ½ cup all-purpose flour, ½ cup whole-wheat flour, 1½ teaspoons baking powder, 1½ teaspoons cinnamon and ½ teaspoon salt together in a small bowl.
- Whisk 1¼ cups banana, 4 tablespoons peanut butter, ¼ cup milk, ¼ cup applesauce, 3 tablespoons honey, 1 egg and 2 teaspoons vanilla together in a large bowl until combined. Fold the oat mixture into the banana mixture until just combined and no dry streaks remain; transfer to the prepared baking pan, spreading into an even layer. Dollop the remaining 2 tablespoons peanut butter evenly on top. Using a toothpick or a paring knife, drag the peanut butter throughout the oat mixture, creating a marbled look.
- Bake until the edges begin pulling away from the pan sides, about 30 minutes.
- Let stand in the pan on a wire rack until cool enough to handle, about 10 minutes. Slice and serve warm.
Notes
To make ahead
Store bars covered at room temperature for up to 4 days.
