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Deliciously Healthy Banana Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars Recipe

In the realm of wholesome snacks, banana peanut butter oatmeal bars stand out not only for their delectable taste but also for their nutritional benefits. This easy-to-follow recipe will show you how to create a delicious batch that’s perfect for breakfast, a post-workout treat, or a satisfying afternoon snack. Rich in fibre and protein, these bars are sure to keep you energised and satisfied throughout the day.

Ingredients

To whip up a tray of these scrumptious oatmeal bars, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 ripe bananas: The riper, the better. They add natural sweetness and moisture.
• 100g peanut butter: Smooth or crunchy, depending on your preference.
• 250g rolled oats: These form the base of your bars.
• 60ml honey or maple syrup: For added sweetness; adjust according to your taste.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A dash for flavour enhancement.
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon: Optional, but it adds a lovely warmth.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: For a little rise in your bars.
• Pinch of salt: To balance the sweetness.

Optional Add-Ins

Feel free to get creative! Here are some optional additions you can mix into your batter:

• Chopped nuts: Walnuts or almonds for added crunch.
• Chocolate chips: Dark chocolate chips can elevate the flavour further.
• Dried fruits: Raisins, cranberries, or chopped dates for natural sweetness.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line an 8×8 inch baking tin with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later.

Step 2: Mash the Bananas

In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. A fork works perfectly for this task, making it easy to achieve a creamy consistency.

Step 3: Mix in the Peanut Butter

Add the peanut butter to the mashed bananas. Stir until well combined and the mixture appears smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix together the rolled oats, cinnamon (if using), baking powder, and salt. This ensures an even distribution of all dry ingredients before combining them with the wet mixture.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the dry ingredients into the banana and peanut butter mixture. Add the honey (or maple syrup) and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is thoroughly combined. If you’re adding optional ingredients such as nuts or dried fruits, fold them in at this stage.

Step 6: Bake

Spoon the mixture into the prepared baking tin, spreading it evenly with the back of a spoon. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the centre comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Slice

Once baked, remove the tin from the oven and allow it to cool in the tin for about 10 minutes. Then, using the parchment paper, lift the bars out. Let them cool completely on a wire rack before slicing them into squares or rectangles.

Storage

Store your banana peanut butter oatmeal bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, they can be wrapped individually and frozen for up to 3 months. Simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a warm treat.

Conclusion

These banana peanut butter oatmeal bars are not only quick and easy to make, but they are also a nutritious, filling snack that the whole family will love. With the versatility to add your favourite mix-ins, you can tailor the recipe to suit your taste preferences while enjoying the wholesome goodness they bring. Perfect for on-the-go or as a comforting homemade treat, these bars are sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

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