Banana Pecan Snack Bars
Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Ideas
Deliciously chewy and packed with flavor, these Banana Pecan Snack Bars are perfect for a quick energy boost!
These Banana Pecan Snack Bars are a delightful treat that combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with crunchy pecans. They make for a wholesome snack, perfect for any time of the day!
Why You'll Love These Bars
- Nutty pecans provide a satisfying crunch
- Sweet and moist banana flavor
- Easy to make and perfect for meal prep
Perfect for Any Occasion
These Banana Pecan Snack Bars are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Whether you need a quick breakfast on the go, a satisfying midday snack, or a post-workout refuel, these bars fit the bill perfectly. Their delightful combination of flavors and textures makes them a favorite among both kids and adults alike, ensuring that everyone in the family will love them.
You can also pack these bars for school lunches, road trips, or hiking adventures. They are not only delicious but also nutritious, providing the energy boost you need without the guilt. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch that will keep everyone satisfied and energized throughout the day.
Meal Prep Friendly
One of the best features of these Banana Pecan Snack Bars is their meal prep-friendly nature. You can easily make a large batch at the beginning of the week and store them for later use. Simply wrap individual bars in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. This way, you’ll have a delicious snack ready whenever hunger strikes, saving you time and effort during busy weekdays.
Moreover, these bars can be customized to suit your dietary needs. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, just ensure you use gluten-free oats. You can also substitute honey with maple syrup for a vegan version, making them accessible for various dietary preferences. The flexibility of this recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing taste.
Health Benefits
Bananas and pecans come together in these snack bars to offer a wealth of health benefits. Bananas are rich in potassium, which is essential for muscle function and heart health, while also providing a natural sweetness that eliminates the need for added sugars. Pecans, on the other hand, are a great source of healthy fats, antioxidants, and fiber, making them a heart-healthy addition to your diet.
The combination of oats, bananas, and pecans ensures that these bars are not only satisfying but also nourishing. They provide a balanced mix of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats, making them an ideal choice for anyone looking to fuel their body effectively. Enjoy them guilt-free, knowing that each bite contributes to your overall well-being.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In a bowl, combine the mashed bananas, peanut butter, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, mix the rolled oats, chopped pecans, baking soda, and salt.
Combine Mixtures
Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until fully combined.
Bake
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cool and Cut
Allow the bars to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before lifting them out and cutting into squares.
Tips for Perfect Bars
To ensure your Banana Pecan Snack Bars come out perfectly every time, use ripe bananas for optimal sweetness and moisture. The riper the bananas, the better the flavor and texture of your bars will be. If you find yourself with overly ripe bananas, don't throw them away! They are perfect for this recipe and can take your bars to the next level.
Make sure to mix the ingredients well but avoid overmixing, as this can lead to dense bars. A gentle fold is all that’s needed to incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet ones. This helps maintain a chewy texture that everyone will love.
Storage Instructions
Storing your Banana Pecan Snack Bars properly is essential to maintain their freshness. Once they have cooled completely, you can cut them into squares and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. For longer freshness, consider refrigerating them, where they can last for up to two weeks.
If you want to keep them even longer, you can freeze the bars. Wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you're ready to enjoy one, simply thaw it at room temperature or heat it briefly in the microwave for a warm, delightful treat.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I substitute the peanut butter?
Yes, you can use almond butter or sunflower seed butter as an alternative.
→ How should I store these bars?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
→ Can I freeze these bars?
Absolutely! Wrap them individually and freeze for up to three months.
→ What can I use instead of honey?
Maple syrup or agave syrup can be used as a substitute for honey.
Banana Pecan Snack Bars
Deliciously chewy and packed with flavor, these Banana Pecan Snack Bars are perfect for a quick energy boost!
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Sweet Baking Ideas
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 12 bars
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
In a bowl, combine the mashed bananas, peanut butter, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth.
In another bowl, mix the rolled oats, chopped pecans, baking soda, and salt.
Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until fully combined.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Allow the bars to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before lifting them out and cutting into squares.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 105mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 4g