introduction
These Banana Oatmeal Bars are easy and quick. They use ripe bananas, oats, and a few simple items. They make a good snack or a light breakfast. If you like simple banana treats, you may also enjoy the banana whole wheat pancakes recipe for another easy banana meal.
why make this recipe
Make these bars when you want a healthy, quick snack. They use natural sweet fruit and whole oats. Kids and adults like them. They need little prep and bake time. For another easy bake idea with fruit, see this caramel apple cheesecake bars idea.
how to make Banana Oatmeal Bars
These bars are simple to mix and bake. Mash the bananas and stir in the rest. Press the mix into a pan and bake. You can add nuts or chips if you like. For toppings or a different crunch, you can look at how other bars do add-ins like these Christmas cookie bars.
Ingredients :
- 2 ripe bananas
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup peanut butter or almond butter
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: nuts or chocolate chips
Directions :
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas.
- Add the oats, cinnamon, honey (or syrup), peanut butter, salt, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Stir well until combined.
- If desired, fold in nuts or chocolate chips.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool before cutting into bars. Enjoy your healthy snack!
how to serve Banana Oatmeal Bars
Cut into bars and serve at room temperature. They are good with a cup of tea or milk. Warm them a little for a softer feel. Top with a smear of nut butter or a few extra chips if you like.
how to store Banana Oatmeal Bars
Keep bars in an airtight container. Store at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can freeze bars for up to 3 months; thaw before eating.
tips to make Banana Oatmeal Bars
- Use ripe bananas for the best sweet flavor.
- Press the mix firmly into the pan so bars hold together.
- Check the center with a toothpick to know when they are done.
- Swap nut butter if someone has allergies.
- Add a little milk if the mix feels too dry before baking.
variation (if any)
- Add 1/2 cup chocolate chips for a sweeter bar.
- Stir in 1/2 cup chopped nuts for crunch.
- Mix in 1/4 cup dried fruit for chew and flavor.
- Use cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg for warm spice notes.
FAQs
Q: Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
A: Yes. Quick oats work, but texture will be softer.
Q: Can I make these without nut butter?
A: Yes. Use extra banana or 2 tablespoons of oil to help bind.
Q: Are these bars vegan?
A: Use maple syrup and a plant nut butter to keep them vegan.
Q: How can I make bars less sweet?
A: Use less honey or maple syrup and choose less ripe bananas.
Q: Can I add protein powder?
A: Yes. Add a few tablespoons but reduce oats a bit to keep texture.
Conclusion
For another simple take on banana and oat bars with just a few ingredients, see this 4-Ingredient Banana Oatmeal Bars – The Roasted Root.
Banana Oatmeal Bars
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas.
- Add the oats, cinnamon, honey (or syrup), peanut butter, salt, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Stir well until combined.
- If desired, fold in nuts or chocolate chips.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool before cutting into bars.
- Enjoy your healthy snack!