Life was brought to a sudden halt last week when I found out Trader Joe’s released a new peanut butter granola. Blame it on the changing seasons, stars, whatever, but I have never loved peanut butter as much as I do right now. The new release felt monumental to me and I wanted to tell everyone I knew. While my friends were able to move on with their lives after hearing my announcement, I was stuck fixated on getting my hands on a bag of that granola.
Thankfully, my darling husband came to the rescue with not one but TWO bags of Trader Joe’s Peanut Butter Granola. Friends, I swear to you this is not an ad for Trader Joe’s or their delicious peanut butter granola. I’m just that big of a fan.
As amazing as it tasted, it still was not enough to satiate my peanut butter cravings. Believe me when I say my 3:00 snack is peanut butter straight out of the jar. With a camping trip coming up, I thought I’d whip up my own peanut butter granola bars to bring along.
These bars have a secret ingredient in them. Can you guess? It’s a banana. A mashed banana adds a little hint of fruity flavor that pairs well with the peanut butter. Because the only thing better than peanut butter is peanut butter and banana.
These bars are hearty, filling, and packed with peanut butter flavor. They would make a perfect travel snack or a after school treat.
Peanut Butter Banana Honey Granola Bars
- 1 1/2 Cups Oats
- 1/2 Cup Sliced Almonds
- 1 Medium Banana
- 1/2 Cup Peanut Butter
- 6 Tbsp Honey (or maple syrup if vegan)
- 1/2 Tsp Salt
- 1/4 Tsp Cinnamon
- 1/2 Tsp Vanilla
Preheat the oven to 350. Line a 9×5 inch loaf pan with parchment paper and set aside.
Mash the banana and add to a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the peanut butter and honey and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly. Remove from the heat and stir in the salt, cinnamon, vanilla, oats and almonds.
Press the mixture in the bottom of the pan and bake for about 15 minutes, until the sides start to turn brown. Allow to cool before slicing. Granola bars will keep for about a week in an air tight container.
