If you’ve ever watched a dog’s tail wag in slow-motion bliss while chewing something homemade, or caught yourself sneaking a bite of your kid’s “healthy snack,” you’ll understand the quiet joy behind a good chew stick. There’s something comforting about food that’s both simple and nourishing—something you can make with ingredients you already love.
Homemade Banana and Peanut Butter Chew Sticks live right at that sweet intersection. They’re chewy, subtly sweet, a little nutty, and filled with natural goodness. Whether you’re making them for your kids, yourself, or even for your dog (yes, there’s a safe version for that too), these chewy treats are a small triumph of homemade care.
This isn’t a store-bought protein bar masked in synthetic flavor or a sugar bomb disguised as “energy food.” This is honest food. The kind that tastes good because it’s made with real ingredients—ripe bananas, creamy peanut butter, and a few simple additions that turn humble pantry staples into something deeply satisfying.
And the best part? You can tweak them endlessly. Want a soft, snackable version for humans? Easy. Want a firmer, longer-lasting chew for your pup? Just bake it longer.
Let’s dive into the details of how to make them just right—and why each ingredient matters more than you’d think.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Before we start mixing and rolling, let’s get our ingredients right. Here’s the base recipe for Homemade Banana and Peanut Butter Chew Sticks—balanced, wholesome, and beautifully simple.
| Ingredient | Quantity (Metric) | Quantity (US) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ripe bananas | 2 medium | 2 medium | Overripe is best—dark spots mean deeper flavor |
| Natural peanut butter (unsweetened, unsalted) | 120 g | ½ cup | Avoid brands with added sugar or oils |
| Whole wheat flour | 150 g | 1¼ cups | Adds chewiness and fiber; oat flour or all-purpose work too |
| Rolled oats | 50 g | ½ cup | Gives texture and extra bite |
| Honey (optional, omit for dog version) | 15 ml | 1 tbsp | Adds light sweetness and helps bind |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 g | ½ tsp | Optional for warmth; omit for dog-safe version |
| Egg | 1 large | 1 large | Acts as binder; flax egg works for vegan version |
Ingredient Insights
Bananas:
The bananas do more than add sweetness. Their natural sugars caramelize during baking, adding subtle depth. They also provide moisture, so the chew sticks don’t dry out too much. Overripe bananas—those freckled, nearly-forgotten ones—are ideal here. They mash smoother and taste more fragrant.
Peanut Butter:
Choose natural peanut butter with no added sugar or hydrogenated fats. The creamy texture binds everything together, and the fat content keeps the sticks tender. Crunchy peanut butter can work if you like added texture—but smooth gives a better rollable dough.
Flour and Oats:
Whole wheat flour gives the chew sticks structure and that slightly hearty flavor that pairs beautifully with bananas. Rolled oats add chewiness and nutrition. For gluten-free versions, oat flour or brown rice flour works, though the sticks may be slightly more delicate.
Eggs and Binders:
The egg helps everything hold together once baked. If you’re vegan or making this for a dog with an egg allergy, use a flax “egg” (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp warm water).
Honey and Cinnamon:
These add sweetness and warmth for human versions. But if you’re making these for pets, skip them. Dogs don’t need added sugar, and while cinnamon is technically safe in small amounts, it’s best left out for regular use.
Step-by-Step Instructions
These chew sticks come together in less than 15 minutes of active prep, though baking time depends on how chewy or crunchy you want them.
1. Preheat and Prep
Set your oven to 160°C (325°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
If you’re planning on making a softer, bendable snack, preheat to 180°C (350°F) and bake for less time. Lower and slower makes them dry and firm—ideal for long-lasting dog chews.
2. Mash the Bananas
In a medium bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. You want a few small lumps—it gives a bit of character. The banana should look like thick pudding and smell sweet.
3. Add the Peanut Butter and Egg
Whisk in the peanut butter and egg until the mixture becomes creamy and cohesive. It should feel rich and slightly sticky, almost like a thick pancake batter.
Tip: If your peanut butter is very thick (especially natural types), microwave it for 10 seconds to loosen it up before mixing.
4. Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, stir together the flour, oats, and cinnamon (if using). Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet, stirring with a spatula or wooden spoon until it forms a stiff dough.
If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle in a little more flour—a tablespoon at a time—until it’s workable. You should be able to roll it without it clinging to your fingers.
5. Shape the Sticks
Lightly flour your work surface. Roll out the dough to about 1 cm (⅜ inch) thick. Cut into strips, roughly 10–12 cm (4–5 inches) long. You can twist them slightly for a rustic look or leave them flat.
For a softer chew (human snack style), keep them thicker. For a firmer chew (dog treat style), roll them thinner so they dry out more evenly.
6. Bake
Place the sticks on the lined baking sheet, spaced just slightly apart—they won’t spread much.
Bake for 25–30 minutes for soft, pliable sticks or 40–45 minutes for a firmer, crunchy texture. The edges should look golden, and the aroma of warm peanut butter will fill your kitchen.
7. Cool Completely
This is critical. Let them cool fully on a wire rack. As they cool, they firm up and develop that perfect chewy resistance. If you’re making dog chews, you can even leave them in the turned-off oven (door cracked open) for another hour to dry out more.
Cooking Techniques & The Science Behind the Chew
What makes these chew sticks so satisfying isn’t just the flavor—it’s the texture. That firm-but-yielding bite comes from a few smart techniques.
1. Moisture Control:
Bananas add natural sugars and water. Baking drives off moisture slowly, concentrating flavor and creating that chewy structure. If you bake too hot, they’ll brown before drying, turning soft instead of chewy.
2. Protein Structure:
The egg proteins and gluten in the flour give these sticks structure. As they bake, proteins coagulate, locking in the shape. The oats add a bit of elasticity—like edible scaffolding.
3. The Role of Fats:
Peanut butter’s fat coats flour proteins, reducing gluten formation. That’s why the chew sticks don’t turn tough. The fat also carries flavor—especially the roasted nut aroma that develops in the oven.
4. Caramelization & Maillard Reaction:
When the banana sugars and peanut proteins meet heat, you get those irresistible golden edges and that nutty, sweet scent. It’s the same chemical magic that makes toast taste so comforting.
5. Texture Control Through Baking Time:
Shorter baking time = soft and bendy. Longer = crisp and tough (great for dental-friendly dog treats). Once you know the science, you can control it like a pro.
Storage, Reheating & Make-Ahead Tips
Homemade treats don’t have preservatives, so proper storage matters.
Room Temperature:
For human snack versions, store in an airtight jar at room temp for up to 3 days. They’ll stay soft and fragrant.
Refrigeration:
Extend life up to 1 week by refrigerating in a sealed container. They may firm up slightly, but you can warm them in the microwave for 10 seconds to revive the chewiness.
Freezing:
Freeze for up to 2 months. Stack between parchment sheets, then seal tightly in a freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Dog Version Tip:
If making the firmer version for dogs, you can store them at room temperature for up to 10 days (as long as they’re well dried). To make them last even longer, dehydrate in a 90°C (200°F) oven for an additional hour after baking.
Variations & Substitutions
1. Vegan Version:
Replace the egg with a flax or chia egg. Skip the honey or swap with maple syrup.
2. Gluten-Free:
Use oat flour or brown rice flour. The texture will be softer and slightly more crumbly, but still delicious.
3. Dog-Safe Banana Chews:
Use only bananas, peanut butter, oats, and whole wheat flour. No honey, no cinnamon, no salt. You can roll them into bones or twists and bake them dry for up to 50 minutes.
4. Chocolate Lovers (Human Only!):
Drizzle melted dark chocolate over cooled sticks. The combo of banana, peanut butter, and chocolate is heaven.
5. Protein Boost:
Add a scoop of unflavored or vanilla protein powder to the dry mix for a post-workout snack. Adjust flour slightly to maintain dough consistency.
Serving & Pairing Suggestions
If you’re making the human-friendly chew sticks, they’re a beautiful on-the-go breakfast or mid-afternoon snack. Pair them with:
- A glass of cold milk or oat milk
- Coffee with cinnamon or a drizzle of honey
- Greek yogurt and fresh berries for a balanced mini-meal
For dogs, serve one stick as a reward after a walk. They’re rich, so moderation’s key—just one a day for small dogs, two for larger breeds.
Presentation-wise, bundle them in parchment and tie with twine for a rustic gift. They look charming in glass jars on the counter too.
Best Time to Serve or Eat
These are all-day snacks, but they shine brightest in two moments: morning and late afternoon.
Morning, when you need something quick before dashing out the door—a soft banana-peanut chew with coffee is perfect.
Afternoon, when energy dips and you crave something sweet but wholesome. These satisfy that craving without the sugar crash.
If you’re a dog owner, they’re also ideal as post-playtime rewards. After a long walk, your pup will adore a chewy, peanut-scented treat.
Conclusion
Homemade Banana and Peanut Butter Chew Sticks are proof that simple ingredients can make something truly special. They’re comforting, nutritious, and endlessly adaptable. The recipe works whether you’re baking for yourself or your furry friend—and it brings that quiet satisfaction of homemade care that store-bought snacks can’t touch.
Cooking like this isn’t about perfection. It’s about connecting—to your ingredients, your kitchen, and the people (or pets) you share them with.
Every chew, every bite, reminds you: food doesn’t have to be fancy to be meaningful. Sometimes, it just has to be made by hand.
FAQs
1. Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?
Yes, though the flavor will be milder and slightly less rich. Cashew butter works beautifully too. Just avoid any nut butter with added xylitol—it’s toxic to dogs.
2. My dough is too sticky—what should I do?
Add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it’s just firm enough to roll. Humidity and banana size can affect dough texture.
3. Can I air-fry these instead of baking?
Absolutely. Air-fry at 160°C (325°F) for about 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway. They’ll brown faster, so watch closely.
4. Are these suitable for toddlers?
Yes—just skip honey for children under one year old. You can also make smaller sticks for easy chewing.
5. My chew sticks turned out too soft. How do I fix them?
Bake a few minutes longer or return to a 90°C (200°F) oven for an hour to dehydrate gently. They’ll firm up as they cool.
At the end of the day, whether you’re handing one to your dog or dipping one in coffee, these Banana and Peanut Butter Chew Sticks will feel like home. Warm, simple, and made with love—the kind of food that makes life just a little sweeter.
