Banana Nut Squares
Delicious banana nut squares combine ripe bananas, peanut butter, and crunchy peanut granules for a moist, flavorful treat perfect for breakfast or snacking, appealing to banana lovers and peanut enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine flour, baking soda, and salt; set aside.
- In a separate bowl, beat butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add peanut butter, mashed bananas, eggs, and milk; beat well.
- Mix in the flour mixture and peanut granules until combined.
- Spread the batter evenly into a lightly greased 18 x 26-inch baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 35 minutes or until the center is firm.
- Cool the baked squares.
- Dust with confectioners' sugar if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown butter instead of regular butter. If you prefer a nut-free version, you can substitute sunflower seed butter for the peanut butter. Make sure the bananas are very ripe for optimal sweetness and moisture. You can also add a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra warmth. This recipe pairs beautifully with Peanutty Chocolate Drops if you're looking for more peanut butter treats.
Serving Suggestions
These banana nut squares are delicious on their own but can also be served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. Pair them with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack. They also make a great addition to brunch, alongside options like Deviled Eggs Deluxe and Veggie Pizza(Appetizer).
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover banana nut squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply microwave individual squares for about 10-15 seconds or warm them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Banana Nut Squares contains roughly 917 calories, with 11g protein, 101g carbohydrates, and 54g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (24% of the Daily Value) and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 813mg per serving (35% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute the eggs in this recipe?
Yes, you can use flax eggs or applesauce as a substitute for eggs. For each egg, use 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water or 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce. This will help maintain moisture and binding in the squares.
What can I use instead of peanut granules?
If you don't have peanut granules, you can substitute with chopped nuts such as walnuts or almonds for added crunch. Alternatively, you can use chocolate chips for a sweeter flavor that complements the bananas beautifully.
How do I know when the squares are done baking?
To check if the banana nut squares are done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they are ready. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to avoid overcooking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).