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To create a delightful texture for your Nutty Banana Bliss Protein Bars, start by mixing your wet ingredients effectively. In a large bowl, combine ripe bananas, almond butter, honey, and vanilla extract. To achieve a smooth consistency, mash the bananas thoroughly before adding the other ingredients. A fork or potato masher works well for this task. For an even creamier blend, consider using an immersion blender or food processor.

Peanut Butter Banana Protein Bars

Discover the delicious and nutritious Nutty Banana Bliss Protein Bars! These homemade bars are a perfect alternative to store-bought snacks, combining rolled oats, ripe bananas, and creamy peanut butter for a satisfying treat packed with protein and healthy fats. Easy to make, customizable, and free from artificial ingredients, these bars are ideal for on-the-go breakfasts, post-workout fueling, or a sweet snack anytime. Elevate your snack game today!

Ingredients
  

1 cup rolled oats

1 ripe banana, thoroughly mashed

1/2 cup natural peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)

1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (your choice)

1/2 cup protein powder (flavor of your choice: vanilla or chocolate)

1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (optional, for a sweet touch)

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1/4 cup mixed nuts or seeds (optional, for added texture)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8x8-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy lifting later.

    Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the thoroughly mashed banana, creamy (or crunchy) peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and pure vanilla extract. Use a fork or whisk to stir the mixture until it is smooth, ensuring everything is well-blended.

      Add Dry Ingredients: Gently fold in the rolled oats, protein powder, and salt to the wet mixture. If you're incorporating the mixed nuts or seeds, add them now. Stir until the mixture is evenly combined. If you chose to include chocolate chips, fold them in delicately at this stage.

        Prepare the Pan: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan. Using a spatula or your hands, press the mixture down firmly and evenly across the surface of the pan to ensure the bars hold together well when baked.

          Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. The bars are done when the edges turn golden brown and the center appears set. Keep an eye on them towards the end to avoid over-baking.

            Cool and Cut: Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan. After it has cooled, utilize the parchment overhang to lift the bars out. Transfer to a cutting board and slice them into squares or rectangles based on your preferred serving size.

              Store: To preserve freshness, store the protein bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will last for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them for future snacking.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 30 minutes | Makes 12 bars