Description
These Banana Oatmeal Bars are a wholesome and delicious snack made with mashed bananas, nut butter, rolled oats, and a touch of sweetness from maple syrup and chocolate chips. Perfect for breakfast on-the-go or a healthy treat, they bake up golden and chewy with a hint of cinnamon and vanilla.
Ingredients
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
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and pan: Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make removal easier.
- 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 well until all components are evenly incorporated.
- Transfer and shape: Pour the mixture into the lined baking pan. Use a spatula or your hands to flatten and spread it into a uniform, even layer. For extra chocolatey goodness, sprinkle additional chocolate chips on top if desired.
- Bake the 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 are set firmly.
- Cool and cut: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Cut into 16 evenly sized bars and serve.
Notes
- Ensure bananas are well mashed for even mixing and binding.
- You can substitute nut butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version.
- Use gluten-free rolled oats if gluten sensitivity is a concern.
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- These bars can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw before eating.
