Banana Oatmeal Bars

Made with just a few simple ingredients, these Banana Oatmeal Bars are the perfect treat for breakfast or a snack! Moist, chewy, and packed with flavor, these oatmeal banana bars are not only delicious but also healthy. Whether you’re rushing out the door in the morning or need a quick pick-me-up during the day, these bars fit seamlessly into any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few steps and minimal prep time, you can have homemade bars ready in under 30 minutes.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients like bananas and oats, these bars are both filling and healthy.
• Customizable: Feel free to add nuts, dried fruits, or your favorite seeds to make these banana oatmeal bars your own!
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch at once and store them for quick breakfasts or snacks throughout the week.
• Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the sweetness of the bananas and chocolate chips!

Tools and Preparation

To make your Banana Oatmeal Bars successfully, you’ll need some essential tools to streamline your process. Having the right equipment makes baking more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking pan (9×9)
• Parchment paper
• Spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to combine all ingredients without spilling.
• Baking pan (9×9): The right size ensures even baking for perfectly shaped bars.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking, making it easy to remove the bars after baking.

Ingredients

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

How to Make Banana Oatmeal Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350F. Line a 9×9 baking pan with parchment paper so your bars come out easily after baking.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine:
* Mashed bananas
* Nut butter
* Rolled oats
* Cinnamon
* Vanilla extract
* Maple syrup
* Chocolate chips
* Salt

Stir until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Transfer Mixture to Pan

Pour the mixture into your lined baking pan. Flatten it into an even layer using a spoon or spatula. You can top it with extra chocolate chips if desired!

Step 4: Bake and Cool

Bake in the preheated oven for about 18 to 20 minutes. Look for golden edges as an indicator that they are done. Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into squares.

Enjoy your delicious Banana Oatmeal Bars!

How to Serve Banana Oatmeal Bars

Banana oatmeal bars are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast or a tasty snack, these bars can be paired with different toppings or sides to enhance their flavor.

With Yogurt

• Greek yogurt: Add a dollop of creamy Greek yogurt for added protein and a tangy taste.
• Flavored yogurt: Pair with your favorite fruit-flavored yogurt for a sweet and satisfying treat.

As a Breakfast Item

• Toasted: Lightly toast the bars before serving to bring out their flavors.
• With fruits: Top with fresh berries or banana slices for extra nutrition.

For an Afternoon Snack

• Nut butter spread: Spread almond or peanut butter on top for a healthy fat boost.
• Drizzle of honey: A drizzle of honey adds sweetness and pairs perfectly with the oatmeal base.

With Coffee or Tea

• Morning beverage: Enjoy your banana oatmeal bars alongside your morning coffee or herbal tea for a delightful combo.

How to Perfect Banana Oatmeal Bars

Creating the perfect banana oatmeal bars is simple with the right tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your baking experience.

• Use ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bars will be.
• Measure ingredients accurately: Ensuring you use the correct amounts will lead to better texture and consistency.
• Don’t overmix: Mixing just until combined helps maintain the soft and chewy texture of the bars.
• Customize add-ins: Experiment with nuts, dried fruits, or seeds to make the recipe uniquely yours.
• Allow to cool completely: Letting the bars cool before cutting helps them hold their shape better.

Best Side Dishes for Banana Oatmeal Bars

Pairing side dishes with banana oatmeal bars can create a more balanced meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds color and freshness to your plate.
2. Nut Mix: A handful of mixed nuts provides healthy fats and protein, making it a perfect complement.
3. Smoothie: Blend your favorite fruits with yogurt or milk for a refreshing drink alongside your bars.
4. Cottage Cheese: Creamy cottage cheese is high in protein and pairs well with the sweetness of the bars.
5. Chia Seed Pudding: This nutritious pudding can be made ahead of time for an easy side dish option.
6. Green Juice: A refreshing green juice packed with vitamins will balance out the dessert-like nature of the bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making banana oatmeal bars can be fun, but it’s easy to make a few missteps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Using Overripe Bananas: While you want ripe bananas for sweetness, using overly brown ones can make the bars mushy. Aim for bananas that are ripe but still hold their shape.
• Skipping the Salt: Many skip salt thinking it’s unnecessary. However, a pinch enhances flavor and balances sweetness. Always include it in your recipe.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Properly: Eyeballing your ingredients can lead to inconsistent results. Use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy every time.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too vigorously can lead to tough bars. Gently combine ingredients until just mixed for soft, chewy results.
• Neglecting Cooling Time: Cutting the bars too soon can cause them to crumble. Allow them to cool completely in the pan before slicing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store banana oatmeal bars in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
• For best texture, keep parchment paper between layers.

Freezing Banana Oatmeal Bars

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place wrapped bars in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Banana Oatmeal Bars

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350F. Place bars on a baking sheet for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat one bar at a time on medium power for about 20-30 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, adding a small amount of butter or oil. Heat each side for 1-2 minutes until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about banana oatmeal bars that may help you.

Can I use other nut butters for Banana Oatmeal Bars?

Yes, you can substitute almond butter, cashew butter, or sunbutter if you have allergies or preferences.

How can I customize my Banana Oatmeal Bars?

Feel free to add nuts, dried fruit, or different spices like nutmeg or ginger for extra flavor.

What is the best way to store Banana Oatmeal Bars?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze them for longer preservation.

Are Banana Oatmeal Bars healthy?

Absolutely! They are made with wholesome ingredients and provide energy and nutrients without refined sugars.

Final Thoughts

Banana oatmeal bars are an excellent choice for breakfast or snacks. They are easy to prepare and versatile enough to customize with your favorite mix-ins. Whether you enjoy them plain or loaded with extras, these bars will satisfy your cravings while keeping you nourished. Give this recipe a try and discover your new favorite snack!

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Banana Oatmeal Bars

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• Author: Ezra
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: About 12 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the wholesome goodness of Banana Oatmeal Bars, the perfect blend of nutrition and flavor. These bars are moist, chewy, and incredibly easy to make, making them an ideal choice for breakfast or a quick snack on busy days. With only a few simple ingredients like ripe bananas, rolled oats, and nut butter, you’ll have delicious bars ready in less than 30 minutes. They’re not just tasty; they’re customizable too! Add nuts, dried fruits, or even chocolate chips for that extra touch. Perfect for meal prep, these bars can be stored for up to five days in the fridge or frozen for later enjoyment. Whether you eat them plain or pair them with yogurt or fruit, these Banana Oatmeal Bars are sure to satisfy your cravings and keep you energized throughout the day.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a 9×9 baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed bananas, nut butter, rolled oats, cinnamon, vanilla extract, maple syrup, chocolate chips, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and flatten it into an even layer.
4. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes until golden around the edges. Let cool completely before cutting into squares.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Snack
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar (40g)
• Calories: 160
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 75mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 0mg