introduction
Banana oatmeal bars are a delicious and healthy snack that you can easily make at home. These bars are perfect for breakfast, a quick snack, or even a dessert. Packed with nutrition and flavor, they are a great way to use up ripe bananas.
why make this recipe
Making banana oatmeal bars is a fantastic choice for several reasons. First, they’re simple to prepare, taking only a short time to mix and bake. Second, they use healthy ingredients like oats and bananas, making them a nutritious option. Third, these bars are customizable, allowing you to add your favorite nuts, seeds, or dried fruits. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast on the go or a tasty sweet treat, banana oatmeal bars are sure to satisfy.
how to make Banana Oatmeal Bars
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
Directions:
- Heat the oven to 350°F and line a 9×9 baking pan with parchment paper.
- Mix together the mashed bananas, nut butter, rolled oats, cinnamon, vanilla, maple syrup, chocolate chips, and salt in a large mixing bowl.
- Transfer the mixture to the lined baking pan and flatten it into a flat, even layer. Feel free to add more chocolate chips on top!
- Bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until the edges of the bars are golden and the bars appear to be set. Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting.
how to serve Banana Oatmeal Bars
Banana oatmeal bars can be enjoyed on their own or served with a spread of nut butter or yogurt for added flavor. They make a great addition to breakfast or can be packed for lunch or snacks. You can also enjoy them warm or at room temperature.
how to store Banana Oatmeal Bars
To store banana oatmeal bars, let them cool completely and then cut them into individual pieces. Place the bars in an airtight container and store them at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can keep them in the fridge for up to a week or freeze them for up to three months.
tips to make Banana Oatmeal Bars
- Use ripe bananas for more sweetness and flavor.
- Experiment with different nut butters like almond or peanut butter for a unique taste.
- Add chopped nuts or dried fruits for extra texture and flavor.
- Keep an eye on the baking time to avoid overbaking; they should be soft and chewy.
variation
You can easily customize banana oatmeal bars. Try adding coconut flakes, chia seeds, or a sprinkle of nuts for added crunch. If you prefer a nut-free option, use sunflower seed butter instead of nut butter.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen bananas. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
2. What can I substitute for maple syrup?
If you don’t have maple syrup, you can use honey or agave syrup as a sweetener.
3. Are these bars gluten-free?
To make gluten-free banana oatmeal bars, be sure to use certified gluten-free rolled oats.
Banana Oatmeal Bars
Ingredients
Method
- Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x9 baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, mix together the mashed bananas, nut butter, rolled oats, cinnamon, vanilla, maple syrup, chocolate chips, and salt until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to the lined baking pan and flatten it into a flat, even layer.
- Bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until the edges of the bars are golden and the bars appear to be set.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into individual pieces.