Peanut butter oatmeal banana energy bars

I recently came across an article listing the 10 Worst Foods To Feed Your Children (or yourself in my opinion!) and it may surprise many parents to see granola bars on that list. While they might seem like a healthy snack option, packaged granola bars are highly processed and usually loaded with sugar. So what can you grab-and-go for energy on the run? I have several easy, homemade solutions.

Here's one that we're loving right now that takes all of 5 minutes to prepare- peanut butter (and you can substitute any nut butter or sunflower butter) oatmeal banana energy bars.

There's very little added sugar, no flour, no oil, and no butter. They freeze well and make great lunchbox treats or a simple breakfast alongside a bowl of fruit.
 

1 1/2 cups oats
1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup almond or soy milk
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1-2 large mashed bananas
1/4 cup creamy peanut butter

Directions:

1. Mix together the oats, light brown sugar, baking powder, kosher salt and ground cinnamon.
2. Add in the vanilla extract, milk and egg. Mix the ingredients together.
3. Then add in the mashed banana and peanut butter. Combine all of the ingredients.
4. Pour the mixture into a lightly greased 8 by 8 inch metal baking pan. Bake at 350 F degrees for 20-25 minutes.
5. Cut into squares and enjoy!