Soft-Baked Oatmeal Bars with Bananas, Peanut Butter, and Chocolate
When you’re craving something sweet but still want to keep it real, these baked Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Bars are the answer. They come together in one bowl, bake up soft and chewy, and freeze like a dream. Naturally sweetened with ripe bananas and maple syrup, they’re packed with peanut butter, oats, and melty chocolate chips.
Created by Ashlea Carver of All the Healthy Things, this wholesome recipe balances indulgence with nourishment. It’s the perfect baked snack to prep ahead for breakfast, a quick bite, or a little post-dinner treat.
Ingredients
- 2–3 ripe bananas, mashed
- ½ cup creamy all-natural peanut butter
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1½ cups old-fashioned oats
- ⅓ cup dark chocolate chips
- Flaky sea salt, for topping
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Wet Ingredients
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas until mostly smooth.
- Add in peanut butter, eggs, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
- Whisk until fully combined.
Step 2: Add the Dry Ingredients
- Stir in cinnamon, baking powder, and salt.
- Fold in the old-fashioned oats until evenly mixed.
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips, saving a few for topping.
Step 3: Bake and Finish
- Line an 8×8 or 9×9 baking dish with parchment paper.
- Pour the batter into the pan and spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle remaining chocolate chips and a pinch of flaky sea salt on top.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the bars are set and lightly golden.
- Let cool completely before slicing into squares or bars.
Pro Tips and Serving Suggestions
- Use extra-ripe bananas for natural sweetness and better texture.
- These bars are great for meal prep—wrap and freeze individually.
- Reheat gently in the microwave for that just-baked softness.
- Want a different twist? Try adding walnuts, dried cranberries, or white chocolate.
- Serve with a cup of coffee or tea for a balanced, satisfying snack.
About the Creator
This wholesome recipe comes from Ashlea Carver, the creator behind @allthehealthythings—a go-to hub for real-food recipes that don’t sacrifice flavor. From savory mains to sweet treats, Ashlea’s recipes are as feel-good as they are delicious.
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Ashlea Carver | @allthehealthythings