Ingredients

Base Ingredients:

• Oat flakes: 1 kg (2 lb) – Provides the hearty and chewy base for the bars.
• Bananas: 2 pcs – Mashed, for natural sweetness and moisture.
• Cinnamon: 5 g (0.2 oz) – Adds warmth and a hint of spice.
• Cocoa: 30 g (1.1 oz) – For a rich chocolate flavor.

Additional Ingredients:

• Banana: 1 pc – Sliced, for layering and texture.
• Water: 3 liters (101 pt) – For softening oats and combining ingredients.
• Milka milk chocolate: 1 bar – Melted, for a smooth and indulgent topping.
• Peanuts: 50 g (1.8 oz) – Roasted for crunch and flavor.

Steps to Make Banana-Chocolate Peanut Energy Bars

Step 1: Toast the Oats

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the oat flakes and toast them for about 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until they become slightly golden and aromatic.
3. Remove the oats from the heat and set them aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Banana Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, mash two bananas until smooth.
2. Add cinnamon and cocoa to the mashed bananas, stirring until well combined.

Step 3: Combine the Oats and Banana Mixture

1. Gradually add the toasted oats to the banana mixture, stirring continuously.
2. If the mixture feels too dry, add a splash of water to reach the desired consistency.

Step 4: Create Layers

1. Line a baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Spread half of the oat-banana mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish.
3. Layer the sliced banana evenly over the mixture.
4. Spread the remaining oat-banana mixture over the bananas, pressing gently to create an even layer.

Step 5: Melt the Chocolate

1. Break the Milka milk chocolate into small pieces and melt it in a microwave or over a double boiler.
2. Once melted, pour the chocolate over the top layer of the oat mixture, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

Step 6: Add Peanuts

1. In a skillet over medium heat, roast the peanuts for 2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Chop the roasted peanuts roughly and sprinkle them over the melted chocolate layer.

Step 7: Chill and Set

1. Place the baking dish in the refrigerator and let the bars chill for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate has hardened and the layers have set.

Step 8: Slice and Serve

1. Once set, remove the dish from the refrigerator and cut the mixture into bars or squares.
2. Store the bars in an airtight container for up to one week.

Prep Time

• 15 minutes

Cooking Time

• 7 minutes (4 minutes for toasting oats, 2 minutes for roasting peanuts, and 1 minute for melting chocolate)

Total Time

• 2 hours 22 minutes (including chilling time)

Calories

• Approximately 220 kcal per bar (based on 12 servings)

Servings

• Makes 12 bars

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Why This Recipe is Timeless

Energy bars have been a staple for busy people for decades, offering a quick and convenient source of nutrition. This recipe stands out because it’s entirely homemade, free of preservatives, and uses natural ingredients that are easy to find and cost-effective. The use of bananas as a natural sweetener reflects a timeless appreciation for whole, unprocessed foods, while the addition of cocoa and chocolate satisfies the universal craving for a touch of indulgence.

What makes these bars truly timeless is their versatility. You can customize the recipe with your favorite add-ins—such as dried fruits, nuts, or seeds—to create a personalized snack that suits your preferences. They’re ideal for all ages and occasions, whether you’re packing them in a lunchbox, taking them on a hike, or simply enjoying them with your morning coffee.

Nutrition Facts (per bar)

• Calories: ~220 kcal
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 20mg

FAQs

1. Can I substitute the bananas?
   • Yes, you can use applesauce, pumpkin puree, or mashed sweet potatoes as alternatives.
2. Can I make these bars gluten-free?
   • Simply use certified gluten-free oats to make this recipe suitable for gluten-intolerant individuals.
3. What other toppings can I use?
   • Try adding shredded coconut, dried cranberries, or sunflower seeds for extra flavor and texture.
4. How long do these bars last?
   • They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week or frozen for up to two months.
5. Can I use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate?
   • Absolutely! Dark chocolate will give a richer flavor and provide additional antioxidants.

Tips for Making the Perfect Energy Bars

• Toast the oats: This step enhances their flavor and adds a nutty aroma to the bars.
• Mash bananas thoroughly: Smooth bananas will create a cohesive mixture without chunks.
• Chill properly: Don’t rush the chilling process; it ensures the bars hold their shape when sliced.
• Use parchment paper: This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store the bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days.
• Freezing: Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the refrigerator before eating.

Conclusion

These Banana-Chocolate Peanut Energy Bars are more than just a snack; they’re a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special. The combination of oats, bananas, cocoa, and chocolate forms a rich and satisfying treat that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. The roasted peanuts add a delightful crunch, while the cinnamon lends a touch of warmth that ties all the flavors together.

What makes this recipe a keeper is its versatility and timelessness. It’s a snack that caters to the needs of busy lifestyles, offering nourishment and energy in every bite. At the same time, it’s customizable enough to suit various tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re making these bars for yourself, your family, or a gathering of friends, they’re sure to be a hit.

Beyond its practicality, this recipe carries a sense of nostalgia. The use of wholesome ingredients like bananas, oats, and chocolate taps into the comfort of homemade goodness. It’s a reminder that the best snacks don’t need to be complicated or store-bought—they just need to be made with care and love.

So, the next time you’re looking for a snack that satisfies your sweet tooth and keeps you fueled throughout the day, try these energy bars. They’re more than just food; they’re a testament to the enduring appeal of homemade creations that never go out of style. Give them a try, and you’ll find yourself making them again and again!