Delicious and Nutritious Peanut Butter Banana Protein Bars

These homemade peanut butter banana protein bars are a healthy and satisfying treat, perfect for fueling your body after a workout or as a quick on-the-go snack. Packed with natural protein from peanut butter and added protein powder, these bars are also gluten-free and can easily be customized with your favorite mix-ins. With a chewy texture and sweet banana flavor, these protein bars are sure to become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients

• 1 cup mashed ripe bananas
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1/2 cup protein powder (vanilla or chocolate)
• 1/4 cup flaxseed meal
• 1/4 cup chia seeds
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts or seeds (optional)
• 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)
• 1/4 cup dried fruit (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, peanut butter, and honey or maple syrup. Stir until well combined.
3. Add the rolled oats, protein powder, flaxseed meal, chia seeds, and any optional add-ins like chopped nuts, dark chocolate chips, or dried fruit. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
4. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and press it down firmly with the back of a spoon or spatula.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
6. Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the baking dish.
7. Once cooled, lift the bars out of the dish using the parchment paper and cut into desired-sized bars or squares.
8. Store the peanut butter banana protein bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, or individually wrap them and freeze for longer storage.

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