Include in Print View:

Chocolate Banana Protein Granola Bars

Delicious chocolate banana protein granola bars arranged artfully on a rustic wooden board. The bars feature chunks of dark chocolate and slices of ripe banana, visually highlighting their nutritious ingredients. In the foreground, a few crushed nuts and banana slices are sprinkled around the bars for added texture. The middle of the image captures the bars stacked in a neat pile, with a soft, natural light illuminating the rich, dark chocolate coating and the vibrant yellow of the bananas, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. In the background, a blurred kitchen setting with minimalist decor enhances the homely vibe, while the focus remains sharply on the granola bars. The overall mood is healthy and appetizing, making it ideal for a food-related article.

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
8x8-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.

Prep Time 30 mins
Cook Time 30 mins
Rest Time 30 mins
Total Time 1 hr 30 mins
Cuisine:
Courses: ,
Difficulty: Beginner
Cooking Temp: 350  F
Servings: 12
Estimated Cost: 10
Calories: 240 kcal
Best Season: Suitable throughout the year
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
  • 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats (Use gluten-free oats if needed.)
  • 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (About 2-3 medium bananas will yield a cup.)
  • 1/2 cup natural peanut butter or almond butter (Choose a smooth variety for easy mixing.)
  • 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup (Maple syrup makes it vegan-friendly.)
  • 1/4 cup cocoa powder (Use unsweetened cocoa for a richer chocolate flavor.)
  • 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (Choose your favorite flavor, chocolate works great too!)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (For that warm, inviting aroma.)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (Enhances sweetness and flavor.)
  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips (Use dark or semi-sweet for a decadent touch.)
  • 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional) (Almonds, walnuts, or pecans add a nice crunch.)
Instructions
    Preparing the Wet Ingredients
  1. 1
    Mash the BananasIn 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!
  2. 2
    Add Peanut Butter and HoneyStir 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.
    3. Combining Dry Ingredients
  3. 3
    Mix Oats and Protein PowderIn 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!
  4. 4
    Add Cocoa Powder and SaltAdd 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.
    5. Bringing It All Together
  5. 5
    Combine Wet and Dry MixturesPour 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!
  6. 6
    Add Mix-insFold 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.
    7. Baking the Granola Bars
  7. 7
    Prepare the Baking DishLine 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.
  8. 8
    Spread the MixtureTransfer 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!
  9. 9
    BakeBake 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!
    10. Cooling and Cutting
  10. 10
    Cool CompletelyAllow 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.
  11. 11
    Slice into BarsOnce 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.
Keywords: granola bars, protein snacks, chocolate, banana, healthy
Read it online: https://bestrecipesblog.com/recipe/chocolate-banana-protein-granola-bars/