Name: Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Banana Bars Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 28 min
Total time: 1 h 38 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups (345 grams) mashed bananas (about 3 medium to large bananas); 1 cup (250 grams) smooth or crunchy peanut butter; 1/4 cup (85 grams) honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 4 cups (320 grams) old-fashioned rolled oats; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 1/4 cups (225 grams) semi-sweet mini chocolate chips, divided (use dairy free for vegan option)

Print Recipe· 3.9 from 1 review

If you’re on the hunt for a wholesome yet indulgent treat, the Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Banana Bars Recipe has got you covered. These bars bring together the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, the hearty chew of old-fashioned oats, and the melty goodness of semi-sweet chocolate chips in one comforting bite. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast on the go or a satisfying snack to fuel your afternoon, this recipe blends simple ingredients into a deliciously moist, chewy bar that feels like a warm hug. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a beloved staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a flat lay of several white bowls and a wooden plate on a white marbled surface. In the center, a large white bowl is filled with light beige oats. To the right is an oval white bowl with smooth, creamy peanut butter, swirled on top and resting on a light wooden board. Below and slightly to the right, a round white bowl contains mashed yellow bananas with a spoon inside. To the bottom left, a white bowl holds small dark chocolate chips with a measuring spoon resting in it. Above this, a small glass bowl filled with dark vanilla extract is visible. On the wooden plate to the upper left, there is a small pile of brown powder, white granulated sugar, and white salt, each with small gold measuring spoons beside them. At the top center, a clear cut-glass cup contains a small amount of amber liquid syrup. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and nutrition. The ripe bananas add natural sweetness and moisture, oats provide that wonderful chew and heartiness, and peanut butter lends richness while holding everything together.

1 1/2 cups mashed bananas: These add natural sweetness and moisture to keep the bars soft and tender.
1 cup peanut butter: Choose smooth or crunchy for a nutty flavor and creamy texture that binds the bars.
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup: A little extra sweetness to balance the oats and bananas.
4 cups old-fashioned rolled oats: The backbone of the recipe, giving the bars their chewy heartiness.
1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the bars rise slightly and stay soft.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and a subtle spice to the mix.
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Lifts the flavor palette with sweet, rich notes.
1 1/4 cups semi-sweet mini chocolate chips: Half go into the batter and half sprinkled on top for melty pockets of chocolate joy.

How to Make Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Banana Bars Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and prepare your pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, making sure to leave enough overhang on the sides so you can easily lift out the bars once they’re baked and cooled. This little prep step makes clean-up and serving a breeze.

Step 2: Mash and mix your ingredients

In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth and luscious. Add in the peanut butter and honey or maple syrup, stirring gently to combine. Next, toss in the oats, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Finally, fold in about 1 cup of those chocolate chips, reserving the rest for topping. The batter will be thick but still pourable, signaling it’s ready for the pan.

Step 3: Bake until golden and set

Transfer the mixture evenly into your prepared baking pan. Sprinkle the reserved chocolate chips generously on top for that extra chocolatey crunch and visual appeal. Pop the pan into the oven and bake for 25 to 28 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are golden and the center feels set but still soft to the touch.

Step 4: Cool for the perfect texture

This step is crucial for the best texture. Let the bars cool in the pan at room temperature for about 30 to 60 minutes. Then, refrigerate for at least an hour to firm them up, which makes slicing them cleanly so much easier.

Step 5: Slice and enjoy

Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the entire slab from the pan. Cut into 16 generous bars and get ready for a treat that’s just the right balance of chewy oats, soft banana, nutty peanut butter, and melty chocolate.

How to Serve Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Banana Bars Recipe

A square metal baking pan lined with parchment paper holds a thick, baked oat bar mixture that fills the entire pan. The bar is golden brown with visible layers of oats and scattered small dark brown chocolate chips throughout the surface. The texture looks dense but slightly soft, with oats and chips distributed evenly. The pan is placed on a white marbled surface, and the photo captures the whole pan from above, showing the uniform, slightly rough top of the bar. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

These bars shine on their own, but if you want to add a little flair, try sprinkling a pinch of flaky sea salt on top just before serving to enhance the chocolate’s richness. A dusting of cinnamon or a drizzle of melted peanut butter also adds a wonderful finishing touch that makes each bite even more special.

Side Dishes

Pair these bars with a cold glass of milk, a dollop of Greek yogurt, or a hot cup of coffee or tea. The creamy or warm accompaniments bring out the wholesome flavors and can turn a simple snack into a delightful mini-meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a more festive occasion, cut the bars into bite-sized squares and arrange them on a decorative platter alongside fresh fruit like berries or banana slices. Wrap individual bars in parchment and tie with twine for an adorable on-the-go treat or gift that friends and family will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If your kitchen is warm, it’s best to keep them refrigerated. Stored this way, they maintain their chewy texture and delicious flavor without drying out.

Freezing

Want to keep these bars around for longer? Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They freeze beautifully for up to 3 months and thaw quickly at room temperature or in the fridge, ready for a quick snack anytime.

Reheating

If you prefer your bars warm, simply microwave a bar for 15 to 20 seconds or warm it in a low oven for a few minutes. The chocolate chips will soften delightfully and the flavors will meld even more, making it feel like a freshly baked treat.

FAQs

Can I make these bars vegan?

Absolutely! Use a plant-based peanut butter and swap the honey for maple syrup to keep the recipe fully vegan while still maintaining that rich flavor and perfect texture.

What kind of oats should I use?

Old-fashioned rolled oats are best for this recipe because they provide the ideal chew and structure. Instant oats or quick-cooking oats will make the bars too soft and mushy.

Can I use other nuts instead of peanut butter?

Yes, you can experiment with almond butter or cashew butter, but keep in mind that the flavor will shift slightly. Make sure your nut butter is smooth for the best mixing and binding results.

How ripe should the bananas be?

Very ripe bananas with plenty of brown spots are perfect since they’re sweeter and mash easily, contributing to the moistness and natural sweetness of the bars.

Can I add other mix-ins?

Definitely! Chopped nuts, dried fruit, or even shredded coconut can be stirred in for added texture and flavor, making the bars uniquely yours.

Final Thoughts

The Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Banana Bars Recipe is truly one of those feel-good desserts you’ll find yourself turning to again and again. It’s simple to make, packed with wholesome ingredients, and delivers that perfect harmony of flavors and textures in every bite. I can’t wait for you to experience how these bars can brighten your day and become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection!