Ingredients:
2 cups rolled oats
1 ripe banana, mashed
½ cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
2 tbsp maple syrup or honey (optional, for added sweetness)
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions:
Prepare your pan:
Line an 8×8-inch baking dish or pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This makes it easier to remove the bars once chilled.
Mash the banana:
In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe banana with a fork until smooth and lump-free.
Mix wet ingredients:
Add the peanut butter, maple syrup or honey (if using), vanilla extract, and cinnamon to the mashed banana. Stir until everything is well combined.
Add oats:
Stir in the rolled oats until evenly coated with the wet mixture. Make sure everything is well mixed—it should form a thick, sticky dough.
Press into pan:
Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan. Use a spatula or your hands (lightly dampened) to press it down firmly and evenly.
Chill:
Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 1–2 hours, or until the mixture is firm and set.
Cut and serve:
Once chilled, lift the mixture out of the pan using the parchment paper and cut it into bars or squares.
Tips:
Add-ins: Mix in chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit for extra texture and flavor.
Storage: Store bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for longer shelf life.