Why Make This Recipe

Banana Oatmeal Bars are a delicious and wholesome snack perfect for any time of day. They are packed with nutritious ingredients and are easy to make. Whether you want a quick breakfast on the go, a post-workout snack, or a tasty treat for kids, these bars fit the bill. Plus, they are naturally sweetened with ripe bananas and maple syrup, making them a healthier choice compared to many store-bought snacks.

How to Make Banana Oatmeal Bars

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups rolled oats
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp baking powder
2 ripe bananas (approx 1 cup mashed)
1/2 cup peanut butter (creamy or runny is best)
1/3 cup maple syrup (can substitute honey)
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/3 cup dark chocolate chips

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, mix the rolled oats, cinnamon, salt, and baking powder together.
In another bowl, mash the bananas, then add peanut butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Add the chocolate chips and mix well.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly with a spatula. Optionally, sprinkle a few more chocolate chips on top.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the edges start to turn golden brown. Let the bars cool for 10 minutes before removing from the pan and slicing.

How to Serve Banana Oatmeal Bars

These bars can be served as a quick snack or breakfast. You can enjoy them plain or with a spread of your choice, like more peanut butter or some yogurt. They’re also great with some fresh fruit on the side!

How to Store Banana Oatmeal Bars

To store your Banana Oatmeal Bars, let them cool completely, then cut them into squares. Place them in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can also freeze the bars for up to three months. Make sure to wrap them individually or place parchment paper between layers.

Tips to Make Banana Oatmeal Bars

Use very ripe bananas for the best natural sweetness.
Feel free to add nuts, seeds, or dried fruits for extra flavor and texture.
If you prefer a less sweet bar, reduce the amount of maple syrup or chocolate chips.
Keep an eye on baking time; every oven is different, and you want to avoid overbaking.

Variation

If you’re looking for a different taste, try substituting almond butter for peanut butter or using different mix-ins like raisins or chopped nuts. You can also add some protein powder if you want to pack in more nutrition.

FAQs

1. Can I use rolled oats instead of quick oats?
Yes, rolled oats work better for this recipe as they provide a chewier texture.

2. What can I use instead of maple syrup?
You can substitute honey or agave syrup for a similar sweetness.

3. Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, just ensure you use certified gluten-free oats.

4. How do I know when the bars are done baking?
Look for golden brown edges. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out mostly clean.

5. What if my bananas aren’t very ripe?
You can use slightly less maple syrup or add a bit of sugar to compensate for the lack of natural sweetness.