Banana Bars are not just a delicious treat; they are a versatile option for breakfasts, post-workout snacks, or even desserts. These easy Banana Protein Bars are sweet, moist, and topped with a healthy frosting, making them a perfect guilt-free indulgence. Packed with over 10 grams of protein per serving, they can be a great addition to your daily diet. Let’s uncover how to make these delightful bars and enjoy their benefits!

Why You’ll Love This Banana Bars

These Banana Bars are not just tasty; they bring several benefits to your table. Firstly, they are high in protein, making them an excellent post-workout snack. Secondly, they contain healthy ingredients like oat flour and almond butter, which provide essential nutrients. Thirdly, they are gluten-free if you choose the right oat flour, catering to those with dietary restrictions. Fourthly, they are incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal time and effort. Fifthly, you can easily customize them with add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips. Lastly, they can satisfy your sweet cravings without the guilt, making them a fantastic alternative to traditional dessert options like banana dessert bars.

Ingredients for Banana Bars

Gather these items:

1 large egg
2 ripe bananas (mashed, 7 oz/200 g in total)
1 ½ cup (150 g) oat flour (or preferred flour)
⅔ cup (70 g) protein powder (vanilla recommended)
¼ cup (70 g) maple syrup (or honey)
⅓ cup (80 g) almond butter (or peanut butter)
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp vanilla extract
⅙ tsp salt
⅓ cup (80 g) Greek yogurt
3 tbsp cream cheese (low fat)
3 tbsp maple syrup (more for a sweeter frosting)
½ tsp vanilla extract

How to Make Banana Bars Step-by-Step

Step 1: Heat oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a 7×11 inches (15×25 cm) baking pan with parchment paper.
Step 2: Add ripe bananas to a large bowl and mash until smooth.
Step 3: Add egg, maple syrup, almond butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until smoothly combined.
Step 4: Add oat flour, protein powder, and baking powder to the wet ingredients. Stir well until fully incorporated. The batter should be smooth and free of lumps.
Step 5: If the batter is too dry, add a splash of milk. If too runny, mix in a spoonful of flour.
Step 6: Transfer the batter to the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly.
Step 7: Bake for 30 – 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Allow bars to cool completely before frosting. Prepare the frosting by mixing all ingredients in a bowl until combined.
Step 9: Frost the bars and slice into 12 squares.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Banana Bars

Keep these in mind:

For a sweeter frosting, add more maple syrup.
Ensure your bananas are very ripe for maximum sweetness and flavor.
Store the bars in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They can last up to a week in the refrigerator.
For a vegan option, replace the egg with a flax egg or applesauce.

Best Ways to Serve Banana Bars

These bars can be served in various delightful ways. Enjoy them plain or topped with a drizzle of extra maple syrup for added sweetness. You can also pair them with fresh fruit or yogurt for a wholesome breakfast. For a delicious twist, try adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter before baking, creating chewy banana bars that everyone will love.

How to Store and Reheat Banana Bars

To store your Banana Bars, place them in an airtight container once they have cooled completely. They can stay fresh for up to a week in the refrigerator. If you want to enjoy them warm, simply reheat them in the oven for a few minutes. These bars are also great for meal prep, making them a convenient option for busy weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions About Banana Bars

What is a banana bar?

A banana bar is a moist, cake-like dessert made primarily from ripe bananas, often resembling a soft cake or a chewy snack. They can be enriched with ingredients like protein powder or nuts, making them nutritious.

Can I make Banana Bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare banana protein bars ahead of time. Just store them in an airtight container, and they will stay fresh for a week or so in the fridge.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Banana Bars?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure your bananas are very ripe for the best flavor. Also, don’t overmix the batter to keep them fluffy and moist. Follow the baking time closely to avoid dryness.

Variations of Banana Bars You Can Try

There are numerous variations of banana bars you can experiment with. For a gluten-free version, use almond flour instead of oat flour. You can also make banana cake bars by adding cream cheese frosting. For a fruity twist, try adding blueberries or chopped walnuts to the batter. Each variation brings a unique flavor profile while maintaining the deliciousness of the original recipe!

For more delicious recipes, check out our Banana Muffins or Southern Banana Cobbler. You can also explore Irresistible Peach Upside-Down Mini Cakes for a delightful dessert option!

Additionally, if you’re looking for healthy dessert options, consider checking out this list of healthy dessert recipes for more inspiration.