Banana Pecan Snack Bars
Highlighted under: Treats & Confections
Deliciously moist and packed with flavor, these Banana Pecan Snack Bars are a perfect treat for any time of day.
These Banana Pecan Snack Bars are not only easy to make, but they also provide a perfect balance of sweetness and crunch. With ripe bananas and crunchy pecans, they make for a great snack or a quick breakfast option!
Why You'll Love These Bars
- The natural sweetness of ripe bananas combined with the crunch of pecans
- Healthy and satisfying, perfect for on-the-go snacking
- Easily customizable with your favorite nuts or chocolate chips
A Healthy Snack Option
In today's fast-paced world, finding healthy snacks can be a challenge. These Banana Pecan Snack Bars provide a delicious solution that satisfies your cravings without compromising your health. Made with ripe bananas and wholesome ingredients, they are naturally sweetened and packed with nutrients. The combination of banana and pecans not only fuels your body but also keeps you feeling full longer, making these bars an ideal choice for busy mornings or afternoon pick-me-ups.
Additionally, the use of peanut butter adds a creamy texture and a dose of protein, which is essential for maintaining energy levels throughout the day. Unlike store-bought snacks that often contain added sugars and preservatives, these bars are simple to make and can be enjoyed guilt-free. Whether you're at home, at work, or on the go, these snack bars are the perfect companion for a healthy lifestyle.
Customizable and Versatile
One of the best features of these Banana Pecan Snack Bars is their versatility. You can easily customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For instance, if you're a fan of chocolate, consider adding dark chocolate chips to the mixture for an indulgent twist. Alternatively, if you prefer a nut-free option, simply omit the pecans and substitute with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for added crunch and nutrition.
This flexibility allows you to experiment with different flavors and textures, ensuring that you'll never get bored of this delightful snack. Moreover, you can adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of honey, making it perfect for everyone, from those with a sweet tooth to those looking for a more subtle flavor.
Perfect for Meal Prep
These Banana Pecan Snack Bars are not just a delightful treat; they are also an excellent option for meal prep. Preparing a batch in advance means you’ll always have a healthy snack readily available. Simply store them in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze them for longer storage. This makes it easy to grab a bar when you’re in a rush or need a little energy boost during the day.
Meal prepping with these bars can save you time and help you make healthier choices throughout the week. You can even package them individually for a convenient grab-and-go option. With their balanced combination of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats, these snack bars are a fantastic addition to your meal prep routine.
Ingredients
Gather all your ingredients before starting.
Ingredients
- 3 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 cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Make sure all ingredients are well mixed.
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your delicious snack bars.
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, peanut butter, honey, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, mix the rolled oats, chopped pecans, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until well combined.
Bake
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cool and Slice
Allow to cool completely in the dish before slicing into bars.
Enjoy your homemade banana pecan snack bars!
Storage Tips
To ensure the freshness of your Banana Pecan Snack Bars, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them for a longer period, place them in the refrigerator, where they can last up to a week. For even longer storage, consider freezing the bars. Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to three months, making it easy to have a healthy snack on hand whenever you need it.
When you're ready to enjoy a frozen bar, simply remove it from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes, or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds to bring back that delightful softness.
Serving Suggestions
These Banana Pecan Snack Bars can be enjoyed on their own, but they also make an excellent base for creative toppings. Drizzle with a little honey or maple syrup for added sweetness, or serve them with a dollop of Greek yogurt and fresh fruit for a more substantial snack. You can even crumble a bar over a smoothie bowl for added texture and flavor, transforming a simple drink into a filling meal.
For a cozy treat, warm the bars slightly and serve them alongside a cup of your favorite tea or coffee. The warmth enhances the flavors and creates a delightful experience that’s perfect for a midday pause or a relaxed evening.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Yes, you can substitute with walnuts or almonds based on your preference.
→ How should I store the snack 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 tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
→ Are these bars gluten-free?
Yes, if you use certified gluten-free oats, these bars will be gluten-free.
Banana Pecan Snack Bars
Deliciously moist and packed with flavor, these Banana Pecan Snack Bars are a perfect treat for any time of day.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Treats & Confections
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 12 bars
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 3 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 cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, peanut butter, honey, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
In another bowl, mix the rolled oats, chopped pecans, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until well combined.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Allow to cool completely in the dish before slicing into bars.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 90mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 5g