Banana Oatmeal Bars are an excellent snack option that combines nutrition with a touch of sweetness. Made primarily from ripe bananas and oats, these bars are delightful as an afternoon treat or a quick breakfast on the go. By incorporating nut butter and chocolate chips, they not only satisfy your sweet cravings but also provide a good dose of energy. You’ll find that they are easy to prepare and perfect for meal prepping, ensuring you always have a healthy snack ready when hunger strikes. If you’re interested in similar treats, you might also enjoy these banana oatmeal bars variations.

Why cook this at home

These Banana Oatmeal Bars are a quick and nutritious option that caters to busy lifestyles. They are budget-friendly, using ingredients you likely have on hand already. Perfect for a healthy breakfast or a wholesome snack, these bars are also naturally sweetened, making them a guilt-free alternative to store-bought snacks. You may also find Banana Oatmeal Bars 3 useful.

Steps at a glance

• Preheat the oven and prepare a baking pan.
• Combine all the ingredients in a mixing bowl.
• Transfer the mixture into the pan and flatten it.
• Bake until the edges are golden.
• Allow the bars to cool before cutting.

Gather these items

To make these Banana Oatmeal Bars, you will need:

• 1½ cups mashed bananas (approximately 3 bananas)
• ½ cup nut butter (such as almond or peanut butter)
• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 cup chocolate chips
• ½ teaspoon salt

Feel free to use your favorite nut butter and adjust the sweetness as needed based on the ripeness of your bananas.

How to prepare it

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, nut butter, rolled oats, cinnamon, vanilla extract, maple syrup, chocolate chips, and salt, stirring until thoroughly mixed.
3. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and flatten it into an even layer.
4. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until the edges are golden and the bars appear set.

What to serve it with

These bars are amazing on their own but can be enhanced with a few serving suggestions. Try pairing them with a dollop of yogurt topped with fresh fruit for a balanced breakfast. Alternatively, enjoy them alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee for an energizing snack.

How to store and freeze

Store any leftover Banana Oatmeal Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave until heated through.

Tips for best results

• Ensure your bananas are very ripe for the best sweetness and moisture.
• Experiment with different nut butters or add-ins like nuts, seeds, or dried fruit to vary the flavor.
• If you prefer a less sweet bar, reduce the amount of maple syrup based on your taste.
• Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them for cleaner slices.

Creative twists

There are numerous ways to put a spin on these Banana Oatmeal Bars. Consider adding coconut flakes for a tropical flavor or mix in some dark chocolate chunks instead of chips for a richer taste. You could also substitute the oats for quick oats or use steel-cut oats for a different texture. For an extra health boost, fold in some chia seeds or flaxseeds.

Your questions answered

Can I use different types of bananas?

Yes, any type of ripe bananas will work! Just make sure they are soft and sweet for the best results.

How do I make these bars gluten-free?

Simply swap the rolled oats for certified gluten-free oats to make this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet.

What can I do if I don’t have nut butter?

You can replace nut butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini if you need a nut-free alternative.

These Banana Oatmeal Bars are not only easy to make but also provide a nutritious option for busy individuals and families. By making them yourself, you can customize the flavor and sweetness to fit your preferences. Consider trying different mixes and share your results with others who are on a journey to eat healthier!

Banana Oatmeal Bars

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Nutritious and sweet Banana Oatmeal Bars made with ripe bananas, oats, and nut butter, perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Category: Snack
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1½ cups mashed bananas (approximately 3 bananas)
• ½ cup nut butter (almond or peanut butter)
• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 cup chocolate chips
• ½ teaspoon salt

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Combine the mashed bananas, nut butter, rolled oats, cinnamon, vanilla extract, maple syrup, chocolate chips, and salt in a mixing bowl, stirring until thoroughly mixed.
3. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and flatten it into an even layer.
4. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until the edges are golden and the bars appear set.
5. Allow the bars to cool before cutting.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for up to three months.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 75mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 0mg