Banana Pecan Snack Bars

Name: Banana Pecan Snack Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 3 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 cup rolled oats; 1/2 cup chopped pecans; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup almond butter or peanut butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Indulgent Baking Ideas

Banana Pecan Snack Bars are a delightful and nutritious treat, perfect for a quick snack or a healthy dessert. Packed with the goodness of bananas and pecans, these bars are both satisfying and delicious.

Created by

Sophia

Last updated on 2026-01-03T13:34:29.284Z

These Banana Pecan Snack Bars are inspired by the classic flavors of banana bread combined with the crunchy texture of pecans. They are perfect for on-the-go snacking or as a sweet addition to your breakfast. Enjoy them with a cup of coffee or tea!

        Why You'll Love These Bars
        Naturally sweetened with ripe bananas
Crunchy pecans add a satisfying texture
Perfect for meal prep and on-the-go snacks

      

Nutritional Benefits

Banana Pecan Snack Bars not only tantalize your taste buds but also pack a nutritional punch. Ripe bananas serve as a natural sweetener and provide essential vitamins, particularly potassium and vitamin C, which are crucial for maintaining healthy bodily functions. The fiber content in bananas aids digestion and helps keep you feeling full longer, making these bars a great option for snacking without guilt.

Pecans are another star ingredient in these bars. Rich in healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fats, they support heart health and help reduce bad cholesterol levels. Additionally, pecans are an excellent source of antioxidants and contain various vitamins and minerals, contributing to overall well-being. By incorporating these nuts, you elevate the nutritional profile of your snack, making it both satisfying and wholesome.

Versatile Snack Option

One of the best aspects of Banana Pecan Snack Bars is their versatility. They can easily be customized to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For a nut-free version, simply replace the pecans with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds. You can also add dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for an extra burst of flavor and nutrition.

These bars are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to make a batch at the beginning of the week and have a delicious snack ready to go whenever you need it. They store well in an airtight container, making them ideal for busy days or as a quick grab-and-go option for school lunches or work snacks.

Perfect Pairings

Banana Pecan Snack Bars can be enjoyed on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with various accompaniments for a more indulgent experience. Consider spreading a thin layer of Greek yogurt on top for added creaminess and protein, or drizzle with a little extra honey or maple syrup for those who enjoy a sweeter treat.

For a delightful breakfast option, enjoy these bars alongside a fresh fruit salad or a side of nut butter for dipping. They also make a great post-workout snack, providing the carbohydrates needed for energy replenishment, along with healthy fats and protein to aid in muscle recovery.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious snack bars:

Ingredients

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

Make sure to measure all ingredients accurately for the best results.

Instructions

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

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, honey (or maple syrup), almond butter, and vanilla extract. Mix well until smooth.

Add Dry Ingredients

Stir in the rolled oats, chopped pecans, cinnamon, and salt until everything is well incorporated.

Bake the Bars

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until golden brown.

Cool and Cut

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

Store the bars in an airtight container for up to a week.

Storage Tips

To keep your Banana Pecan Snack Bars fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to prolong their shelf life, consider refrigerating them, where they can last for about a week. For even longer storage, freeze the bars wrapped individually in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe bag.

When you're ready to enjoy a frozen bar, simply remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. This way, you can always have a healthy snack on hand, ready to fuel your day!

Serving Suggestions

These snack bars can be served in various ways to suit any occasion. For a casual gathering, cut them into bite-sized pieces and serve on a platter alongside a selection of other healthy snacks. They also work beautifully as a dessert option when entertaining guests, especially when paired with a scoop of your favorite ice cream or yogurt.

If you're hosting a breakfast or brunch, consider serving the bars with coffee or tea, allowing guests to enjoy a wholesome treat alongside their morning beverages. The hearty nature of these bars ensures they will be a hit, satisfying both sweet and savory cravings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds as per your preference.

→ How do I store the snack bars?

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

→ Can I freeze these bars?

Absolutely! You can freeze the bars for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them well.

→ Are these bars gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free oats, these bars can be made gluten-free.