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Easy No-Bake Peanut Butter Banana Oat Energy Bars

no bake peanut butter banana oat energy bars - featured image

These no-bake energy bars combine creamy peanut butter, ripe bananas, and oats for a quick, healthy snack perfect for busy mornings or afternoon slumps. They are simple to make, require no baking, and are naturally sweetened.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium ripe bananas, mashed with some texture left
  • 1 cup (250g) creamy natural peanut butter
  • 2 cups (180g) old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) honey or maple syrup (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons chia seeds or flaxseeds (optional)
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Line an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
  2. In a mixing bowl, mash 2 medium ripe bananas with a fork or potato masher, leaving some small chunks for texture (about 2-3 minutes).
  3. Stir in 1 cup (250g) creamy peanut butter and 1/4 cup (60ml) honey or maple syrup if using. Mix well until combined and smooth (about 1-2 minutes).
  4. Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir to incorporate evenly.
  5. In a separate bowl, combine 2 cups (180g) rolled oats with 2 tablespoons chia or flaxseeds if using.
  6. Gradually fold the oat mixture into the wet banana and peanut butter blend using a spatula until all oats are coated and the mixture feels sticky but firm (about 2-3 minutes).
  7. Pour the mixture into the lined pan and press down firmly with a spatula or clean hands to create an even layer.
  8. Refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours until set.
  9. Lift the set mixture out of the pan using the parchment paper edges and slice into 10-12 bars or squares.

Notes

Use ripe bananas with brown spots for best sweetness and moisture. Press the mixture firmly before chilling to prevent crumbling. Bars can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week or frozen individually for up to 2 months. For nut-free version, substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini. Optional add-ins include mini chocolate chips, cocoa powder, shredded coconut, or dried cranberries.

Nutrition

Keywords: no-bake, peanut butter, banana, oat, energy bars, healthy snack, quick snack, vegan option, gluten-free option