Banana Pecan Snack Bars

Name: Banana Pecan Snack Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 cup rolled oats; 1/2 cup chopped pecans; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup peanut butter or almond butter; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp cinnamon; 1/4 tsp salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Deliciously chewy and nutty, these Banana Pecan Snack Bars are the perfect healthy treat for any time of the day.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-03T12:50:31.239Z

These Banana Pecan Snack Bars combine the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the crunchy texture of pecans, making them an ideal snack for both kids and adults. Perfect for lunchboxes or a quick pick-me-up in the afternoon!

        Why You'll Love These Bars
        Naturally sweetened with ripe bananas
Crunchy pecans add a delightful texture
Great for on-the-go snacking or breakfast

      

The Health Benefits of Banana Pecan Snack Bars

These Banana Pecan Snack Bars are not just delicious; they also offer numerous health benefits. The primary ingredient, ripe bananas, provides a natural sweetness along with essential vitamins and minerals, including potassium and vitamin C. This makes them a great energy booster without the need for refined sugars. Moreover, bananas contain dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness, making these bars an excellent choice for a healthy snack.

Pecans are another star ingredient in this recipe, adding not just crunch but also a wealth of nutrients. Rich in healthy fats, fiber, and protein, pecans can help improve heart health and reduce inflammation. They are also packed with antioxidants, which can combat oxidative stress in the body. Together with the wholesome oats, these bars create a balanced snack that supports both physical health and well-being.

Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the best aspects of these Banana Pecan Snack Bars is their versatility. Whether you need a quick breakfast on a busy morning, a satisfying snack in the afternoon, or a nutritious option for a post-workout refuel, these bars have got you covered. They are easy to pack in lunchboxes or take along on hikes, making them a convenient choice for anyone with a busy lifestyle.

Additionally, their delightful flavor profile makes them a hit with both kids and adults. You can feel good about serving these bars to your family, knowing they are made with wholesome ingredients and no artificial additives. They are also customizable; feel free to add in your favorite mix-ins, such as chocolate chips or dried fruits, for an extra twist!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Banana Pecan Snack Bars:

Ingredients

2 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup peanut butter or almond butter
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp salt

Once you have all the ingredients, you're ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your delicious Banana Pecan Snack Bars:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, rolled oats, chopped pecans, honey, peanut butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until well combined.

Transfer to Pan

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and press it down evenly.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.

Cool and Cut

Allow the bars to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before lifting them out and cutting into squares.

Enjoy your homemade Banana Pecan Snack Bars as a healthy snack or breakfast option!

Storage Tips

To keep your Banana Pecan Snack Bars fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider refrigerating them; they can last for up to two weeks in the fridge. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before serving, as they'll be a bit firmer when chilled.

For longer storage, these bars freeze beautifully! Simply wrap them individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just take a bar out and let it thaw at room temperature or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds.

Customizing Your Bars

These snack bars are highly adaptable, allowing you to tailor them to your taste preferences. If you’re a fan of chocolate, consider adding a handful of dark chocolate chips or cocoa nibs to the mixture before baking. This will not only enhance the flavor but also add an extra touch of indulgence without compromising health.

For those who enjoy a bit of spice, experiment with different spices such as nutmeg or ginger to create a unique flavor profile. Additionally, you can swap out the pecans for other nuts like walnuts or almonds, or even add seeds such as chia or flaxseeds for added nutrition. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative with your ingredient choices!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Absolutely! You can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds.

→ How should I store the snack bars?

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze these bars?

Yes, you can freeze them! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

→ Are these bars gluten-free?

If you use certified gluten-free oats, these snack bars can be gluten-free.