If you’re on the lookout for a simple, delicious snack that packs a nutritional punch, look no further than these 6-Ingredient Banana Chickpea Bars. Not only are they vegan and gluten-free, but they’re also incredibly easy to make with just a handful of ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Made with garbanzo beans, ripe bananas, and creamy peanut butter, these bars are the perfect blend of healthy and satisfying. Let’s dive into the details!
Why I Love This Recipe
These 6-Ingredient Banana Chickpea Bars are a game changer for anyone needing a quick, wholesome snack. They’re soft, chewy, and full of flavor, with the natural sweetness of bananas complemented by the rich creaminess of peanut butter. Plus, they’re loaded with protein and fiber from the chickpeas, making them a perfect option for a post-workout boost or an afternoon pick-me-up. I love how versatile they are—you can easily customize them with your favorite add-ins!
What to Buy
To create these delightful bars, here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 15-oz can of garbanzo beans – Make sure to rinse and drain them well for the best texture.
- 3 ripe bananas – The riper, the better! They should be speckled for the sweetest flavor.
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter – Look for a brand with minimal ingredients for a healthier option.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional) – Adds a lovely depth of flavor.
- 1 tsp baking powder – Helps the bars rise and achieve a fluffy texture.
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon (optional) – For a hint of warmth and spice.
- Pinch of sea salt – Enhances all the flavors.
- ½ cup chocolate chips (optional) – Because who doesn’t love chocolate?
Toolbox for This Recipe
- Mixing bowl – For mashing the bananas and mixing ingredients.
- Food processor – Perfect for blending the chickpeas and peanut butter smoothly.
- Baking dish – A 9×9-inch or similar size works great for this recipe.
- Spatula – Ideal for spreading the batter evenly in the baking dish.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Essential for accurate ingredient measurements.
- Oven – Preheat your oven for baking the bars to perfection.
Cook 6-Ingredient Banana Chickpea Bars (Vegan, Gluten-Free) Like This
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bars will bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Chickpeas
Open the can of garbanzo beans, rinse them under cold water, and drain well. This step is crucial for removing excess sodium and ensuring a pleasant texture in your bars.
Step 3: Mash the Bananas
In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas using a fork or potato masher until smooth. The bananas should be creamy and free of lumps for the best consistency.
Step 4: Blend Ingredients
In a food processor, combine the rinsed chickpeas, mashed bananas, creamy peanut butter, and vanilla extract (if using). Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and well combined.
Step 5: Mix in Dry Ingredients
Transfer the blended mixture back to your mixing bowl. Add the baking powder, ground cinnamon (if using), and a pinch of sea salt. Stir until just combined. If you’re adding chocolate chips, fold them in at this stage.
Step 6: Bake
Pour the batter into a greased baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the bars are golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Once baked, remove the bars from the oven and let them cool in the dish for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing them into squares or rectangles.
Dairy-Free/Gluten-Free Swaps
If you need to make this recipe even more inclusive, consider these swaps:
- Peanut butter alternatives – Use almond butter or sunflower seed butter for nut-free options.
- Chocolate chips – Opt for dairy-free chocolate chips to keep the recipe vegan.
- Sweeteners – If you prefer a sweeter bar, feel free to add a tablespoon of maple syrup or agave nectar.
Problems & Prevention
While this recipe is straightforward, here are some tips to avoid common pitfalls:
- Make sure your bananas are ripe for the best flavor and sweetness.
- Don’t skip the rinsing step for the chickpeas; it helps reduce a bean-y flavor.
- Be careful not to over-bake the bars, as they can become dry. Keep an eye on them after the 25-minute mark.
- If the mixture seems too thick, add a splash of non-dairy milk to reach your desired consistency.
Freezer-Friendly Notes
These 6-Ingredient Banana Chickpea Bars are perfect for meal prep and freezing! Here’s how:
- Once cooled, cut the bars into individual servings.
- Wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container.
- Freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply let them thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds.
6-Ingredient Banana Chickpea Bars (Vegan, Gluten-Free) Q&A
Can I use other beans instead of garbanzo beans?
While garbanzo beans provide a unique flavor and texture, you could experiment with other beans like white beans or black beans. Just keep in mind that the taste may vary slightly.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
Check for a golden-brown color on the top and insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, they’re ready!
Can I add nuts or seeds to the bars?
Absolutely! Chopped nuts or seeds can add a delightful crunch. Just make sure to adjust the quantities of the other ingredients slightly if you add a lot.
What’s the best way to store leftover bars?
Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
That’s a Wrap
In just a few simple steps, you’ve created a wholesome snack that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. These 6-Ingredient Banana Chickpea Bars are perfect for busy days, and they make an excellent addition to lunchboxes or as a quick breakfast on the go. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to please everyone in your household. So, gather your ingredients, get your oven preheated, and enjoy these delightful bars!
6-Ingredient Banana Chickpea Bars (Vegan, Gluten-Free)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for even baking.
- Step 2: Rinse and drain the garbanzo beans well.
- Step 3: Mash the ripe bananas in a mixing bowl until smooth.
- Step 4: Blend the chickpeas, mashed bananas, peanut butter, and vanilla in a food processor until smooth.
- Step 5: Mix the blended ingredients with baking powder, cinnamon, and salt in the mixing bowl.
- Step 6: Pour batter into a greased baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Step 7: Cool for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
- Ensure bananas are ripe for optimal sweetness.
- Rinse chickpeas to improve texture.
- Monitor baking time to prevent dryness.
- Add non-dairy milk if mixture is too thick.
- These bars freeze well; wrap individually for easy snacks.
