If you’re looking for a healthy, homemade energy bar that’s easy to make and packed with flavor, these Banana Oat Energy Bars with Almond Butter are the perfect solution. Made with wholesome oats, ripe bananas, and creamy almond butter, these bars are naturally sweet, gluten-free, and ideal for a quick snack or post-workout fuel. Whether you’re on the go or need a mid-day pick-me-up, these bars will keep you satisfied and energized.
Ready to make your new favorite snack? Let’s get started!
Banana Oat Energy Bars with Almond Butter
Ingredients
For the Energy Bars
- 2 cups rolled oats gluten-free if needed
- 2 ripe bananas mashed
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips or dried fruit optional
Optional Add-Ins
- 2 tbsp chia seeds or flaxseeds for extra nutrition
- A handful of shredded coconut for texture
- A sprinkle of hemp seeds for added protein
Substitutions
- Vegan: Use maple syrup instead of honey.
- Nut-Free: Swap almond butter for sunflower seed butter or tahini.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
- Stir in the almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract until well combined.
Combine the Dry Ingredients
- Add the rolled oats, cinnamon, and salt to the wet ingredients and stir until the mixture is evenly combined.
- If using optional add-ins like chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit, fold them in at this stage.
Press the Mixture into the Pan
- Transfer the oat mixture to the prepared baking dish.
- Press it down evenly using a spatula or the back of a spoon to ensure the bars are compact and hold together after baking.
Bake the Energy Bars
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the bars are set.
- Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan.
Cut and Serve
- Once cooled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper.
- Cut into 8-10 bars.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge for a longer-lasting snack.
Notes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 1 energy bar):
- Calories: 180-220
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 10g
Notes/Advice:
- Additions/Subtractions:
- For a sweeter bar, you can increase the amount of honey or maple syrup.
- Feel free to mix in your favorite toppings—whether it’s seeds, nuts, or chocolate, these bars are very customizable.
- You can also lightly toast the oats before mixing for a nuttier flavor.
Variations:
- Chocolate Banana Bars: Add 1-2 tbsp cocoa powder to the batter for a rich, chocolaty flavor.
- Peanut Butter Banana Bars: Swap almond butter for peanut butter for a classic peanut-butter-banana combo.
- Superfood Energy Bars: Mix in seeds like chia, flax, or hemp for an extra boost of nutrients and fiber.
Suggestions:
- Serving Ideas: These energy bars are perfect for breakfast on the go, as a post-workout snack, or a mid-afternoon pick-me-up. Pair with a cup of coffee or smoothie for a more filling snack.
- Make It Ahead: These bars can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days at room temperature or in the fridge for up to a week.
- Storage Tips: For longer storage, freeze the bars in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Simply thaw at room temperature when ready to eat.
Final Thoughts:
And there you have it—Banana Oat Energy Bars with Almond Butter that are easy to make, healthy, and full of flavor! These bars are packed with wholesome ingredients like oats, banana, and almond butter, making them the perfect snack to keep you fueled throughout the day. Whether you’re grabbing one on the go or enjoying it with a cup of coffee, these bars are guaranteed to satisfy. So mash those bananas, mix in the oats, and enjoy your delicious homemade energy bars!