Banana Oatmeal Bars

Made with pantry staples, these Banana Oatmeal Bars are perfect for breakfast or as a snack! They are not only delicious but also packed with wholesome ingredients that will keep you feeling full and satisfied. Whether you’re looking for a quick morning meal or a healthy treat to enjoy throughout the day, these oatmeal banana bars fit the bill perfectly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 10 minutes of prep time, making it ideal for busy mornings.
• Healthy Ingredients: Made with mashed bananas and rolled oats, these bars are nutritious and satisfying.
• Versatile Snack: Enjoy them for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even as a post-workout boost.
• Kid-Friendly: The sweet taste of chocolate chips makes these bars appealing to both kids and adults alike.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Bake a batch ahead of time to have a healthy snack option ready whenever you need it.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare your Banana Oatmeal Bars.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking pan (9×9)
• Parchment paper
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
• Baking pan: A 9×9 baking pan is perfect for creating uniformly sized bars that cook evenly.
• Parchment paper: This ensures easy removal of the bars from the pan without sticking, making cleanup easier.
• Spatula: A spatula helps in evenly spreading the mixture in the pan for uniform baking.

Ingredients

Made with pantry staples, this banana oatmeal bars recipe is perfect for breakfast or as a snack! Full of wholesome ingredients, these oatmeal banana bars will keep you feeling full and satisfied.

For the Base

• 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
• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Chocolatey Flavor

• 1 cup chocolate chips

How to Make Banana Oatmeal Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your 9×9 baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, mix together:
1. The mashed bananas
2. Nut butter
3. Rolled oats
4. Cinnamon
5. Vanilla extract
6. Maple syrup
7. Chocolate chips
8. Salt

Make sure everything is well combined.

Step 3: Prepare to Bake

Transfer the mixture into the lined baking pan. Use a spatula to flatten it into an even layer. If desired, sprinkle some additional chocolate chips on top for extra sweetness!

Step 4: Bake and Cool

Bake in the preheated oven for about 18 to 20 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown and the bars appear set. Once baked, allow them to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares.

Enjoy your homemade Banana Oatmeal Bars as a tasty and nutritious treat!

How to Serve Banana Oatmeal Bars

Banana oatmeal bars are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re having them for breakfast or as a snack, here are some great serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

Enjoy with Nut Butter

• Spread additional nut butter on top for an extra creamy and satisfying bite.

Top with Fresh Fruits

• Add sliced bananas, berries, or apples on top to bring a fresh taste and colorful presentation.

Pair with Yogurt

• Serve alongside a dollop of yogurt for a creamy contrast that complements the bars perfectly.

Drizzle with Honey or Maple Syrup

• A light drizzle over the bars adds sweetness and enhances their flavor profile.

Serve with a Smoothie

• Pair these bars with your favorite smoothie for a complete breakfast or snack.

How to Perfect Banana Oatmeal Bars

Perfecting your banana oatmeal bars can elevate their taste and texture. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out just right.

• Use Ripe Bananas: Ripe bananas add natural sweetness and moisture, making the bars more flavorful.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix until ingredients are just combined to keep the texture light and fluffy.
• Check for Doneness: Look for golden edges; the center should be set but moist.
• Cool Completely Before Cutting: This helps the bars hold their shape better when you slice them.
• Store Properly: Keep them in an airtight container to maintain freshness longer.

Best Side Dishes for Banana Oatmeal Bars

Pairing banana oatmeal bars with complementary sides can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent side dishes to consider.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and color, making your plate vibrant and healthy.

2. Greek Yogurt Parfait
   Layer Greek yogurt with granola and fruits for a satisfying contrast in textures.

3. Nutty Granola
   Serve crunchy granola on the side for an added crunch that contrasts nicely with the soft bars.

4. Cottage Cheese Bowl
   A bowl of cottage cheese topped with honey provides protein and pairs well with the sweet bars.

5. Chia Seed Pudding
   This creamy pudding offers fiber and omega-3s, making it a nutritious complement.

6. Almond Milk Smoothie
   Blend almond milk with spinach and fruit for a refreshing drink that pairs well with these bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make a huge difference in your Banana Oatmeal Bars. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overripe bananas: Using overly ripe bananas can lead to mushy bars. Choose bananas that are ripe but still firm for the best texture.
• Incorrect measuring: Not measuring ingredients accurately can affect the consistency of your bars. Use proper measuring cups and spoons for precision.
• Skipping the cooling time: Cutting the bars too soon may cause them to crumble. Allow them to cool completely before slicing for clean edges.
• Ignoring baking time: Overbaking can dry out your bars, while underbaking can leave them gooey. Keep an eye on them around the 18-minute mark.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Banana Oatmeal Bars

• Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap or foil.
• Store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Banana Oatmeal Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350F, place bars on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one bar at a time for 15-20 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm each side for about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about Banana Oatmeal Bars:

What are Banana Oatmeal Bars?

Banana Oatmeal Bars are a healthy snack made with mashed bananas, oats, nut butter, and chocolate chips, perfect for breakfast or on-the-go.

How long do Banana Oatmeal Bars last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, they last up to 1 week in the refrigerator and up to 3 months in the freezer.

Can I customize my Banana Oatmeal Bars?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, seeds, or dried fruit to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Are Banana Oatmeal Bars suitable for meal prep?

Yes! They make an excellent meal prep option as they are easy to store and reheat, making them convenient for busy mornings or snacks.

Final Thoughts

These Banana Oatmeal Bars are not just delicious but also versatile. They make a great breakfast or snack option and can be customized with your favorite add-ins. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the wholesome goodness!

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Banana Oatmeal Bars

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• Author: Saphira
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the wholesome goodness of Banana Oatmeal Bars, a delightful treat perfect for breakfast or as a nutritious snack. Made with simple pantry ingredients, these bars feature the natural sweetness of ripe bananas combined with hearty rolled oats and creamy nut butter. Each bite is enhanced with chocolate chips for a touch of indulgence, making them appealing to both kids and adults alike. Whether you need a quick meal on busy mornings or a healthy option to fuel your day, these bars are versatile and easy to prepare ahead of time. Enjoy them warm or cold, and customize them with your favorite mix-ins for an extra flavor boost!

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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
• 3 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 cup chocolate chips
• ½ teaspoon salt

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9 baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed bananas, nut butter, rolled oats, cinnamon, maple syrup, chocolate chips, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Transfer the mixture into the lined baking pan and flatten it out evenly using a spatula.
4. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until golden brown on the edges and set in the center. Allow cooling completely before slicing into squares.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar (45g)
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 80mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 0mg