Banana Oatmeal Bars are a delicious and healthy snack option that everyone can enjoy. They are made with simple ingredients and are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a midday snack. Packed with the goodness of bananas and oats, these bars are not only tasty but also nutritious.
Why make this recipe
This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a quick and easy snack that is also healthy. Banana Oatmeal Bars are a great way to use up ripe bananas, and they are full of fiber and protein from the oats and nut butter. Plus, they’re versatile — you can easily customize them with your favorite mix-ins or enjoy them as is!
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.
- In a large mixing bowl, mix together the mashed bananas, nut butter, rolled oats, cinnamon, vanilla, maple syrup, chocolate chips, and salt.
- 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
Serve Banana Oatmeal Bars as a quick breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a dessert. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Pair them with a glass of milk or your favorite nut milk for an extra treat!
How to store Banana Oatmeal Bars
Store the Banana Oatmeal Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge where they can last for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to three months. Just remember to wrap them well before freezing.
Tips to make Banana Oatmeal Bars
- Use very ripe bananas for the best sweetness and flavor.
- Experiment with different nut butters like almond or peanut butter depending on your preference.
- You can add nuts, seeds, or dried fruits for extra texture and flavor.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less maple syrup based on your taste.
Variation
You can make these bars gluten-free by using certified gluten-free oats. Additionally, if you want to reduce the sugar content, consider using less maple syrup or replacing it with a sugar substitute.
FAQs
Can I make these bars without nut butter?
Yes! You can substitute the nut butter with applesauce or pumpkin puree for a nut-free version.
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats, but the texture may be slightly different. Rolled oats provide a chewier texture.
How can I make these bars vegan?
This recipe is already vegan-friendly since it doesn’t use any animal products. Just make sure your chocolate chips are dairy-free!