Banana Oatmeal Bars Recipe
Introduction
These Banana Oatmeal Bars are a wholesome and delicious way to enjoy a quick snack or breakfast on the go. Packed with natural sweetness and hearty oats, they’re easy to make and perfect for the whole family.
Ingredients
- 1½ cups mashed bananas (approx. 3 bananas)
- ½ cup nut butter
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat the oven to 350°F and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed bananas, nut butter, rolled oats, cinnamon, vanilla extract, maple syrup, chocolate chips, and salt. Mix until evenly incorporated.
- Step 3: Transfer the mixture to the lined baking pan and press it down into an even, flat layer. You can sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top if desired.
- Step 4: Bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until the edges turn golden and the bars appear set. Let the bars cool completely before slicing.
Tips & Variations
- For a nut-free version, substitute nut butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini.
- Add chopped nuts or dried fruit for extra texture and flavor.
- Use dark chocolate chips for a richer taste and less sweetness.
- Make sure the bananas are very ripe for the best natural sweetness.
Storage
Store cooled bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. To enjoy them warm, reheat in the microwave for about 15 seconds before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, quick oats can be used, but the texture will be softer and less chewy.
Are these bars gluten-free?
Use certified gluten-free oats to ensure the bars are gluten-free.
PrintBanana Oatmeal Bars Recipe
Delicious and wholesome Banana Oatmeal Bars made with mashed bananas, nut butter, oats, and chocolate chips. These bars are naturally sweetened with maple syrup and flavored with cinnamon and vanilla, making a perfect healthy snack or breakfast on the go.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 9–12 bars 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1½ cups mashed bananas (approx. 3 bananas)
- ½ cup nut butter
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly mix the mashed bananas, nut butter, rolled oats, cinnamon, vanilla extract, maple syrup, chocolate chips, and salt until well combined.
- Prepare the Batter: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly and flattening the top with a spatula. Optionally, sprinkle additional chocolate chips on top for extra texture and flavor.
- Bake Bars: Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes or until the edges turn golden and the bars appear set and firm to the touch.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares to maintain their shape and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute nut butter with sunflower seed butter or peanut butter depending on preference or dietary restrictions.
- Use gluten-free rolled oats if you need the recipe to be gluten-free.
- For a vegan version, ensure the chocolate chips are dairy-free.
- Adding chopped nuts or dried fruit can add extra texture and flavor.
- Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
Keywords: banana oatmeal bars, healthy snack, baked bars, vegan breakfast bars, nut butter bars, maple syrup dessert
