There’s something special about whipping up a homemade snack that brings pure joy with every bite. These Homemade Banana and Peanut Butter Chew Sticks are the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug—a delightful blend of ripe banana sweetness and creamy peanut butter richness, all held together by wholesome oat flour. As you stir the ingredients, you’ll notice the dough taking on a soft, slightly sticky consistency, promising a chewy, satisfying texture once baked. Not only do they smell heavenly while they’re in the oven, but they also look irresistibly golden-brown when they come out, with crisp edges giving way to tender centers.
This beginner-friendly recipe is perfect if you’re seeking a snack that’s both nourishing and easy to make. In just 15 minutes of preparation, 35 minutes of baking, and a brief 10-minute resting period, you’ll have crunchy, chewy sticks that clock in at around 400 calories per batch. Whether you classify them as a guilt-free dessert, a quick afternoon pick-me-up, or a special dog snack, these treats hit all the right notes. You’ll love how simple pantry staples—like bananas, peanut butter, and oat flour—transform into bite-sized wonders that are ideal for pet lovers, craving a healthful alternative, or fans of oat flour recipes. Let’s dive in, shall we?
KEY INGREDIENTS IN HOMEMADE BANANA AND PEANUT BUTTER CHEW STICK
Before we get our hands dirty, let’s talk about the star players in this recipe. Each ingredient brings its own unique flavor, texture, and nutritional benefit, making these chew sticks a winner for everyone—two-legged and four-legged friends alike.
- Ripe Bananas
These lend natural sweetness, moisture, and a smooth texture. Overripe bananas are perfect because they mash easily and heighten the banana flavor in every stick.
- Creamy Peanut Butter
Provides richness and a boost of protein. The creaminess helps bind the dough and contributes that irresistible nutty aroma.
- Oat Flour
Acts as the primary dry ingredient, adding a subtle nuttiness while keeping the chew sticks gluten-friendly (if you choose certified gluten-free oats). It also delivers a pleasantly chewy bite.
- Unsweetened Applesauce
Works as a natural binder and adds moisture without extra sugar. It keeps the texture tender while balancing out the richness of peanut butter.
- Vanilla Extract
Enhances all the other flavors with its warm, aromatic notes. Just a teaspoon elevates the taste from simple to sensational.
HOW TO MAKE HOMEMADE BANANA AND PEANUT BUTTER CHEW STICK
Let’s roll up our sleeves and transform these simple ingredients into mouthwatering chew sticks. The process is straightforward, perfect for beginner cooks who want a foolproof, healthy treat.
1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures even baking and easy cleanup.
2. In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until they reach a completely smooth consistency, leaving no large lumps.
3. Add the creamy peanut butter, unsweetened applesauce, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix vigorously until the mixture is homogeneous and glossy.
4. Gradually add the oat flour, stirring continuously with a spatula or spoon. Watch as the mixture thickens into a sticky dough—that’s the perfect sign.
5. Lightly flour a clean, flat surface. Roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness, ensuring even thickness for uniform baking.
6. Using a cookie cutter or a sharp knife, cut the dough into stick shapes, each approximately 4 inches long for the ideal chew size.
7. Arrange the sticks on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between them so they bake evenly without sticking together.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the sticks are firm to the touch and have turned golden brown around the edges.
9. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely on a wire rack. The sticks will harden further as they cool, giving that perfect chewy-crisp texture.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR HOMEMADE BANANA AND PEANUT BUTTER CHEW STICK
Once your chew sticks have cooled, you’ll want to serve them in ways that showcase their sweet, nutty flavor and chewy texture. Whether you’re celebrating a pup’s achievement or simply craving a wholesome snack, how you present these treats can make all the difference. Think about creating a little spread with complementary textures and colors: fresh fruit slices, a drizzle of extra peanut butter, or a sprinkle of crushed oats for contrast. For dog lovers, you can even stack the sticks in a cute jar labeled “Dog Snacks” on the counter to delight guests. These sticks double as a quick energy booster during a hike or an afternoon pick-me-up with your coffee, so keep a stash handy in an airtight container. Let’s explore four stylish and practical ways to serve these chewy delights that cater to both two- and four-legged audiences alike.
- Training Treat Platter
Lay out a row of sticks on a low tray or plate during a training session. Their chewy texture makes them ideal for quick rewards, and you can easily break them into smaller pieces for multiple reinforcements.
- Fruit and Stick Board
Pair the chew sticks with apple or pear slices for a mini grazing board. The fresh fruit adds a juicy contrast to the dense chew, making each bite more dynamic and visually appealing.
- On-the-Go Snack Packs
Wrap individual sticks in parchment paper sachets or small resealable bags. Toss them into a backpack or lunchbox for a portable, mess-free snack that stays fresh all day.
- Dessert Spread
Arrange the sticks on a decorative plate alongside small bowls of honey drizzle, coconut flakes, or crushed nuts. Guests can customize their bites for a playful, build-your-own-dessert experience.
HOW TO STORE HOMEMADE BANANA AND PEANUT BUTTER CHEW STICK
Keeping your chew sticks fresh and flavorful is easy with the right storage methods. Since these treats have no artificial preservatives, it’s important to store them properly so they maintain their chewy texture and nutty aroma. Avoid humid environments and excessive heat, which can cause them to soften or turn stale. Make sure the sticks are completely cooled and hardened before sealing them away—this helps prevent condensation and sogginess. Whether you’re planning to enjoy them within a few days or saving them for later adventures, these straightforward storage tips will ensure every bite tastes as good as the first.
- Airtight Container at Room Temperature
Store cooled sticks in a sealed container on the counter. They’ll stay fresh for up to one week—perfect for everyday snacking.
- Refrigeration
For longer shelf life, keep the chew sticks in an airtight jar or zip-top bag in the fridge. This can extend freshness up to two weeks while preserving that signature chew.
- Freezer Packs
Place individual sticks in small freezer-safe bags, remove excess air, and freeze. Thaw at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving to pets or humans—ideal for meal prep or busy households.
- Portion Control Jars
Divide sticks into single-serving glass jars with tight lids. Label with the date and grab one jar at a time to maintain freshness and prevent overhandling.
CONCLUSION
Thank you for joining me on this adventure into Homemade Banana and Peanut Butter Chew Sticks. From the moment you gather ripe bananas and creamy peanut butter to the satisfying crunch that greets you with each bite, this recipe proves that simple ingredients can yield extraordinary results. You’ve learned how to mix and mold the dough, fine-tune the baking time for golden perfection, and even discovered creative serving and storage strategies. Whether you’re sharing these sweet, chewy delights with human family members or treating your furry friends to healthy dog snacks, you’ll appreciate how easily these sticks become a staple in your snack rotation. Feel free to print this article or save it in your digital recipe box so you can revisit it whenever the craving strikes. Below, you’ll find a helpful FAQ section to answer any lingering questions you might have.
I hope this guide inspires you to experiment with flavors—maybe swapping in whole wheat flour or adding a dash of cinnamon for extra warmth. If you try the recipe, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, photos, or any tweaks you made. Questions or feedback? Drop a comment; I’m here to help you perfect each batch. Happy baking, and may your days be filled with delicious, wholesome treats!
Homemade Banana and Peanut Butter Chew Stick
Description
These chewy, wholesome sticks blend ripe bananas and creamy peanut butter, creating a snack that's both delicious and nutritious. Perfect for pets or as a guilt-free treat!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
-
In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth.
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Add the creamy peanut butter, unsweetened applesauce, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Mix until well combined.
-
Gradually add the oat flour to the banana mixture, stirring continuously until a sticky dough forms.
-
Lightly flour a clean, flat surface and roll out the dough to 1/4-inch thickness.
-
Using a cookie cutter or a knife, cut the dough into stick shapes, approximately 4 inches long.
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Arrange the sticks on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they’re spaced out to allow even baking.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the sticks are firm and golden brown.
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Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely on a wire rack. The chew sticks will harden further as they cool.
Note
- Ensure the bananas are ripe, as this will add natural sweetness to the chew sticks.
- You can substitute oat flour with whole wheat flour if desired.
- If you're making these for dogs, ensure the peanut butter used does not contain xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.
- These chew sticks can be stored in an airtight container for up to one week.
- Enjoy these chew sticks as a delicious treat or snack, and feel free to share with your furry friends!
