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Banana Oatmeal Bars Recipe

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4.8 from 55 reviews

These Banana Oatmeal Bars are a delicious and healthy snack made with natural ingredients like mashed bananas, rolled oats, and nut butter. Sweetened lightly with maple syrup and enhanced with chocolate chips, these bars are perfect for breakfast on the go or a wholesome treat throughout the day. With simple preparation and baking, they provide a nutritious energy boost packed with fiber and protein.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups mashed bananas (approx. 3 bananas)
  • 1/2 cup nut butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 tablespoons maple syrup

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups rolled oats
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Add-ins

  • 1 cup chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy removal of the bars.
  2. Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, nut butter, rolled oats, cinnamon, vanilla extract, maple syrup, chocolate chips, and salt. Stir until all ingredients are evenly incorporated to form a consistent batter.
  3. Prepare Baking Pan: Transfer the mixture to the lined baking pan. Use a spatula to press and flatten it into an even layer to ensure uniform baking. Optionally, sprinkle additional chocolate chips on top for extra chocolatey flavor and a decorative touch.
  4. Bake Bars: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and the bars feel set to the touch. This indicates they are baked through and ready.
  5. Cool and Cut: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, lift the parchment paper to remove the block and cut into 16 equal bars for serving.

Notes

  • Ensure bananas are well mashed to help bind the bars effectively.
  • Nut butter choice can be adjusted based on preference or dietary needs, such as peanut, almond, or cashew butter.
  • For a nut-free version, substitute nut butter with sunflower seed butter or omit and increase banana slightly.
  • Bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerated for up to a week.
  • For added texture, consider mixing in nuts, seeds, or dried fruit along with or instead of chocolate chips.
  • Make sure bars are completely cooled before cutting to avoid crumbling.