Banana Oatmeal Bars
If you are looking for a healthy snack or breakfast option, banana oatmeal bars are a great choice. These bars are not only easy to make but also tasty and nutritious. They have a perfect blend of flavors and are full of wholesome ingredients. Whether you enjoy them during breakfast, as a snack, or even as dessert, they are sure to satisfy your cravings. Packed with bananas, oats, and nut butter, these bars are rich in fiber, providing lasting energy. Plus, they are simple enough for anyone to whip up in their kitchen.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make banana oatmeal bars. First, they are a great way to use ripe bananas. When bananas get too ripe, many people wonder what to do with them. Instead of throwing them away, you can turn them into a delicious snack. Second, banana oatmeal bars are very nutritious. They are filled with healthy ingredients like oats, bananas, and nut butter. These ingredients are rich in essential vitamins and minerals, making them a good choice for your health.
Another reason to make these bars is their convenience. You can prepare them quickly and bake them in under 30 minutes. Once cooled, they can be stored for several days, making them a great option for meal prep. You can grab a bar on your way out the door or enjoy one with your coffee in the morning. They are also customizable; you can add or change ingredients based on your personal taste and preference.
Lastly, they are kid-friendly. Many children love sweet treats, and these bars have a natural sweetness from the ripe bananas and maple syrup. You can feel good knowing you are giving them a snack that is not only yummy but also good for them.
How to Make Banana Oatmeal Bars
Creating these banana oatmeal bars is straightforward and fun. Here are the steps to follow to make this healthy treat.
Ingredients:
- 1½ cups mashed bananas (approx. 3 bananas)
- ½ cup nut butter (like almond butter or peanut butter)
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- ½ teaspoon salt
Directions:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9 baking pan with parchment paper. The parchment paper will help the bars come out easily after baking.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, nut butter, rolled oats, cinnamon, vanilla extract, maple syrup, chocolate chips, and salt until fully mixed. Make sure to mix everything well so that the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Transfer the mixture to the lined baking pan and flatten it into an even layer. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to press it down smoothly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes. The bars are done when the edges are golden brown, and the center is set. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking.
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out and cutting them into squares or bars. This cooling time is essential. It allows the bars to firm up and makes cutting them easier.
How to Serve Banana Oatmeal Bars
Banana oatmeal bars can be served in various ways. They are perfect as a quick breakfast or a portable snack. You can enjoy them plain or with toppings. Here are some ideas:
- Spread a layer of nut butter on top to add more flavor and protein.
- Serve with some fresh fruit, such as slices of banana or berries, on the side.
- Pair them with yogurt for a nutritious and filling breakfast.
- Drizzle some honey or additional maple syrup over the top if you prefer more sweetness.
- Crumble the bars over your smoothie or yogurt bowl for added texture.
You can get creative with how you serve and enjoy these bars. Feel free to experiment with different pairings or toppings!
How to Store Banana Oatmeal Bars
Storing your banana oatmeal bars properly will help keep them fresh and delicious. Here’s how to do it:
Room Temperature: If you plan to eat the bars within a few days, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Make sure they are completely cool before sealing them.
Refrigerator: For longer storage, keep the bars in the refrigerator. This can help them last up to a week. Use an airtight container to avoid drying out.
Freezer: If you want to store them for a longer time, you can freeze the bars. Cut them into squares and wrap each piece in plastic wrap or foil, then put them in a freezer bag. They can last for up to three months. When you are ready to eat one, just take it out and let it thaw at room temperature.
Proper storage will ensure that your bars stay fresh and tasty for as long as possible.
Tips to Make Banana Oatmeal Bars
Making the perfect banana oatmeal bars is easy with a few handy tips:
Use Ripe Bananas: The sweeter the bananas, the sweeter your bars will be. Look for bananas with brown spots on the peel; they are perfect for mashing.
Nut Butter Choices: You can use any nut butter you like. Almond butter, coconut butter, or even sunflower seed butter are great options. Each will give a unique taste.
Add Ins: Feel free to add nuts, seeds, or dried fruits for extra texture and flavor. Chopped walnuts, pecans, or raisins can be wonderful additions.
Sweetness Adjustments: If you prefer your bars less sweet, you can reduce the maple syrup slightly. Taste the mixture before baking to see if it suits your preference.
Baking Time: Oven temperatures can vary. Keep an eye on your bars towards the end of the baking time to ensure they don’t overcook.
Variation
While the basic recipe for banana oatmeal bars is delicious as is, you can switch things up for variety:
- Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip: Use chocolate peanut butter for a rich flavor boost.
- Nut-Free Version: Replace nut butter with applesauce or sunflower seed butter to make it nut-free.
- Fruit Additions: Adding dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped nuts can enhance the taste and texture.
- Double Chocolate: Mix cocoa powder into the batter for a chocolatey twist and use chocolate chips for added indulgence.
Experiment with different flavors to find your perfect combination!
FAQs
Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes! You can use frozen bananas. Just thaw them first, drain any excess liquid, and mash them before using them in the recipe.
How long do these bars last?
Banana oatmeal bars last about one week in the refrigerator. In the freezer, they can last up to three months. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container.
Can I make these bars vegan?
Absolutely! The recipe is already vegan, as it uses plant-based ingredients. Just ensure that the chocolate chips are dairy-free if you want to keep the bars vegan.
Making banana oatmeal bars is a rewarding experience that results in a healthy and delicious treat. They are easy to prepare, customizable, and great for on-the-go snacking. With the tips and variations provided, you can make this recipe your own and enjoy it however you like! Try it today, and satisfy your sweet tooth while staying healthy.
Banana Oatmeal Bars
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x9 baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, nut butter, rolled oats, cinnamon, vanilla extract, maple syrup, chocolate chips, and salt until fully mixed.
- Transfer the mixture to the lined baking pan and flatten it into an even layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes until the edges are golden brown, and the center is set.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out and cutting them into squares.