How to make
Start by preheating the oven to 180°C (356°F). Line a rectangular baking pan with parchment paper so the bars can be removed easily after baking.
Peel the bananas and place them in a large mixing bowl. Using a fork, mash them thoroughly until a smooth banana puree forms. The bananas should be very soft and mostly lump-free, as they provide natural sweetness and moisture for the bars.
Add the peanut butter or cashew butter to the mashed bananas. Pour in the honey and vanilla extract as well. Stir everything together until the mixture becomes smooth, creamy, and completely combined.
Place the oats in a blender or food processor and pulse them briefly. They should become slightly finer but should not turn into flour. This step helps the bars hold together better while still maintaining a chewy texture.
Add the oats to the banana mixture along with the cocoa powder and salt. Stir thoroughly until the ingredients form a thick, evenly mixed batter.
Roughly chop the cashews into large pieces. Add them to the mixture and gently fold them in so the nuts are distributed evenly throughout the batter.
Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to press the mixture down firmly and spread it evenly so the bars bake uniformly.
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. The bars should become slightly firm and lightly golden on top.
Remove the pan from the oven and allow the dessert to cool completely. Once cooled, lift it out of the pan and cut it into rectangular bars.
For extra flavor, melt the dark chocolate together with the coconut oil using a double boiler or microwave in short intervals. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the bars before serving.
These chocolate banana bars are perfect as a healthy snack, quick breakfast, or energy boost during the day.
Be sure to try this recipe and explore more homemade snack ideas. See also how to make coconut vanilla bars, healthy energy bars, and the popular homemade sesame brittle treats.
