Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, gooey bar that combines the creamy richness of peanut butter, the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, and the hearty goodness of rolled oats—all without turning on your oven! These Slow Cooker Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Bars are about to become your new obsession, offering a foolproof dessert that's as easy to make as it is delicious. Whether you're a busy parent, a health-conscious snacker, or just someone who loves minimal-effort, maximum-flavor treats, this recipe is your ticket to snack heaven!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: Snack
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare your slow cooker by lightly greasing the interior with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until they are smooth and creamy using a fork or potato masher.
- Add the peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and cinnamon to the mashed bananas. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and create a uniform mixture.
- Gradually fold in the rolled oats, stirring gently to ensure even distribution throughout the mixture.
- If using chocolate chips, gently fold them into the mixture, reserving a few for topping if desired.
- Transfer the entire mixture into the prepared slow cooker, spreading it evenly across the bottom and smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Cook for 3-4 hours, checking occasionally to prevent overcooking.
- The bars are done when the edges are slightly firm and the center is set but still soft.
- Once cooked, turn off the slow cooker and let the bars cool completely in the insert for about 30-45 minutes.
- Carefully lift the bars out using parchment paper or by inverting the slow cooker insert. Cut into 12 even rectangular bars.
- Optional: Drizzle with additional melted peanut butter or sprinkle with extra chocolate chips before serving.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Banana Selection Matters: Use very ripe bananas with plenty of brown spots for maximum natural sweetness and easier mashing.
- Prevent Sticking: Don't skip greasing your slow cooker—use cooking spray or butter to ensure easy removal of your bars.
- Customize Your Bars: Feel free to experiment with mix-ins like chopped nuts, dried fruit, or different types of chocolate chips.
- Check for Doneness: Every slow cooker is slightly different, so start checking your bars around the 3-hour mark to prevent overcooking.
- Cooling is Crucial: Let the bars cool completely in the slow cooker to help them set and make cutting easier.
- Storage Hack: These bars freeze beautifully! Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- Serving Suggestion: Warm slightly before serving or enjoy at room temperature for the most delightful texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
