Healthy Banana Nut Granola Bars
Homemade Banana Nut Granola Bars
As a mom, I’m always on the lookout for healthy snacks that my kids will actually enjoy. It’s frustrating to scan the grocery store shelves only to find granola bars loaded with sugar alcohols, excess sugars, and preservatives.
I want something simple, wholesome, and naturally sweetened—without the unnecessary additives.
That’s why I started making my own granola bars at home. These Banana Nut Granola Bars are packed with nutrients, naturally sweetened with honey, and provide a great balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats to keep little tummies full and happy.
Table of Contents
Why We Use Raw Honey for Sweetness
Many store-bought granola bars rely on refined sugars or artificial sweeteners to make them taste good, but I prefer a natural approach.
Raw honey is an incredible alternative, offering a touch of sweetness while also providing health benefits. Unlike refined sugar, raw honey contains antioxidants, enzymes, and antibacterial properties that can help boost the immune system.
It’s also easier on digestion and has a lower glycemic impact compared to processed sugars. Plus, it helps bind our ingredients together for the perfect chewy texture!
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Why do I need to Roast the Oats and Nuts?
Before mixing everything together for these Banana Nut Granola Bars, we want to take a few extra minutes to roast the oats and nuts in the oven. Roasting enhances their natural flavors, bringing out a delicious nutty aroma while adding a slight crunch to the granola bars.
It also helps break down phytic acid, making the nutrients more bioavailable and easier to digest. Trust me, this simple step makes all the difference in taste and texture!
Health Benefits of Walnuts, Pecans, and Almonds
These bars include a mix of walnuts, pecans, and almonds, each bringing its own set of health benefits. Walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support brain health and reduce inflammation.
Pecans are packed with antioxidants and promote heart health, while almonds provide a boost of protein, vitamin E, and healthy fats. Together, they make these bars a powerhouse of nutrition, perfect for fueling busy little bodies (and moms too!).
Why should I read Ingredient Labels on Peanut Butter?
Peanut butter is one of the main ingredients in these granola bars, but not all peanut butters are created equal.
Many brands add unnecessary sugars, hydrogenated oils, and preservatives that counteract the health benefits of natural peanut butter.
When choosing peanut butter, always check the ingredient list—it should contain only peanuts and salt, nothing else. This ensures you’re using a natural and wholesome product without any hidden additives.
How do I properly Store these Banana Nut Granola Bars?
Once your bars have set and been cut into pieces, store them in an airtight container.
- Keep them at room temperature for up to a week.
- For longer freshness, store them in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
- If you prefer a firmer texture, chilling them is the best option.
- To freeze, wrap individual bars in parchment paper and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container; they will last up to three months.
Meal Prepping and Freezing for Postpartum or Busy Weeks
If you want to make a large batch to have on hand, these Banana Nut Granola Bars freeze beautifully. Simply cut them into portions, wrap them individually in parchment paper, and store them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
They’ll last up to three months in the freezer, making them a perfect grab-and-go snack. This is especially helpful for postpartum moms who want a nutritious, one-handed snack ready to go!
Time-Saving Snack Prep
Life gets busy, and having homemade granola bars prepped for the week saves so much time.
Whether you’re packing lunchboxes, grabbing a quick bite before heading out the door, or needing a mid-afternoon energy boost, these bars are a great solution. With a little prep, you can ensure your family has a wholesome snack option at all times with these Banana Nut Granola Bars.
Banana Nut Granola Bars Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 2 scoops protein powder
- 1/2 cup raw almonds or pecans
- 1/3 cup walnuts
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1 cup natural peanut butter
- 1/4 cup raw honey
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the oats, almonds (or pecans), and walnuts on a baking sheet. Roast for 8-10 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they are slightly golden and fragrant.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the roasted oats and nuts with the protein powder, raisins, cinnamon, and sea salt.
- In a separate bowl, mix the peanut butter and honey until smooth and combined. Stir in the mashed banana.
- Pour the peanut butter mixture over the dry ingredients and mix well until everything is evenly coated.
- Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper and press the mixture firmly into the pan, making sure it’s evenly distributed.
- Place the dish in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the bars to firm up.
- Once set, remove from the pan and cut into bars. Enjoy immediately or store for later!
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Making your own granola bars at home is one of the best ways to ensure your kids are snacking on something nutritious and delicious.
Plus, it’s a great way to avoid unnecessary sugars and preservatives found in store-bought options. Whether you’re meal prepping for postpartum recovery, planning healthy snacks for your little ones, or simply looking for a grab-and-go treat, these Banana Nut Granola Bars are a perfect choice.
Try them out and enjoy a snack that’s as good for you as it is tasty!
Banana Nut Granola Bars
Ingredients
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 2 scoops protein powder
- 1/2 cup raw almonds or pecans
- 1/3 cup walnuts
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1 cup natural peanut butter
- 1/4 cup raw honey
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 ripe banana mashed
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the oats, almonds (or pecans), and walnuts on a baking sheet. Roast for 10-15 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they are slightly golden and fragrant.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the roasted oats and nuts with the protein powder, raisins, cinnamon, and sea salt.
- In a separate bowl, mix the peanut butter and honey until smooth and combined. Stir in the mashed banana.
- Pour the peanut butter mixture over the dry ingredients and mix well until everything is evenly coated.
- Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper and press the mixture firmly into the pan, making sure it’s evenly distributed.
- Place the dish in the refrigerator for at least 1 hours to allow the bars to firm up.
- Once set, remove from the pan and cut into bars. Enjoy immediately or store for later!
Nutrition
Tried this recipe for yourself? Leave a comment and photos below!
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Nutrition Disclaimer: Our Family Cooks is not a dietitian or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.
