Description
Delicious and wholesome Banana Oatmeal Bars that combine the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with hearty oats, nut butter, and chocolate chips. These bars are perfect as a quick breakfast, healthy snack, or on-the-go treat, featuring simple ingredients and a bake method for a soft, chewy texture.
Ingredients
Dry and Wet Ingredients
- 1½ cups mashed bananas (approx. 3 bananas)
- ½ cup nut butter
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon salt
Mix-ins
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Heat the oven to 350°F (177°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring the paper extends over the edges for easy removal.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, nut butter, rolled oats, cinnamon, vanilla bean paste, maple syrup, chocolate chips, and salt. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Transfer and Flatten Mixture: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula or your hands to press and flatten it into an even, compact layer. Optionally, sprinkle additional chocolate chips on top for extra flavor and appeal.
- Bake Bars: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the edges turn golden and the bars appear set and no longer wet in the center.
- Cool and Slice: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely on a wire rack before lifting them out via the parchment paper edges. Cut into 16 bars and serve.
Notes
- Ensure bananas are well mashed to create a cohesive batter.
- Use rolled oats for the best texture; quick oats can make the bars too soft.
- Nut butter can be almond, peanut, or any preferred variety.
- Maple syrup adds sweetness; adjust quantity or substitute with honey if desired.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate to extend freshness.
- For a vegan version, confirm the chocolate chips are dairy-free.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
