BestRecipesBlog.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
These Chocolate Banana Protein Granola Bars are naturally sweet, soft, and rich with chocolate flavor. Ripe banana adds moisture and sweetness while pairing perfectly with chocolate for a classic, comforting taste. Ideal for breakfast, post-workout fuel, or a healthy snack, these no-bake bars are easy to prepare and great for weekly meal prep.
Equipment Needed
Mixing bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Fork or potato masher (for banana)
Rubber spatula or wooden spoon
8×8-inch baking pan or loaf pan
Parchment paper
Microwave-safe bowl or small saucepan
Tips & Variations
Use very ripe bananas for the best sweetness and flavor.
Chill bars before slicing to help them firm up properly.
Add chopped walnuts or almonds for extra crunch.
Swap chocolate chips for dark chocolate chunks for a richer taste.
Sprinkle cocoa powder or drizzle melted chocolate on top for added indulgence.
Store bars in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and hold their shape.
Chocolate Banana Protein Granola Bars
Description
Enjoy a chewy, chocolatey treat that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also provides a healthy dose of protein and energy. Great for on-the-go snacking!
Ingredients
Ingredients for Chocolate Banana Protein Granola Bars
Instructions
Preparing the Wet Ingredients
-
Mash the Bananas
In a large mixing bowl, mash 2 ripe bananas until smooth. You want them to be almost liquid to ensure even mixing.The riper the bananas, the sweeter your bars will be. This is a great use for bananas that are starting to brown! -
Add Peanut Butter and Honey
Stir in 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter and 1/4 cup of honey into the mashed bananas. Mix until well combined.You can substitute almond butter or maple syrup for a nut-free or vegan option, respectively.
Combining Dry Ingredients
-
Mix Oats and Protein Powder
In a separate bowl, combine 2 cups of rolled oats and 1/2 cup of protein powder. Stir them together to ensure an even distribution.Feel free to use flavored protein powder to add a hint of extra flavor to your bars! -
Add Cocoa Powder and Salt
Add 1/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder and a pinch of salt to the oats and protein mixture. Mix thoroughly to combine.Sifting the cocoa powder can help avoid clumps and ensure a smooth texture in your bars.
Bringing It All Together
-
Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the wet banana mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir until everything is well incorporated and forms a sticky dough.Don’t be shy; use your hands if necessary to really mix it well! -
Add Mix-ins
Fold in 1/2 cup of dark chocolate chips and 1/4 cup of chopped nuts or seeds of your choice, if desired.You can customize this step with your favorite add-ins like dried fruit or coconut flakes.
Baking the Granola Bars
-
Prepare the Baking Dish
Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, letting it hang over the sides for easy removal later.Greasing the parchment can also help prevent sticking. -
Spread the Mixture
Transfer the granola mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to press it down firmly and evenly.The more compact the mixture, the better your bars will hold together! -
Bake
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden.Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking; you want them chewy, not crunchy!
Cooling and Cutting
-
Cool Completely
Allow the granola bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then lift them out using the parchment paper and let them cool completely on a wire rack.Cutting them while they’re still warm can cause them to crumble. -
Slice into Bars
Once cool, slice them into bars or squares of your desired size.Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap for easy grab-and-go snacks!
Note
- Ensure the bananas are ripe for natural sweetness and optimal flavor.
- Use rolled oats for the best texture; quick oats may result in a mushy consistency.
- Toast the nuts and seeds for enhanced flavor and crunch.
- Substitute almond butter with peanut butter or sunflower seed butter for variations.
- For added sweetness, consider mixing in a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup, if desired.
- Adjust the protein powder flavor to complement the chocolate; vanilla protein can add a nice touch.
- Press the mixture firmly into the pan to achieve a denser bar that holds together well.
- Let the bars cool completely before slicing to prevent crumbling.
- Store in an airtight container for up to one week, or freeze for longer shelf life.
- Feel free to add dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for an extra burst of flavor and nutrients.