Description
Delicious and chewy banana oatmeal bars, perfect for a quick snack or breakfast.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 1/2 cups mashed bananas (approx. 3 bananas)
- 1/2 cup nut butter (peanut butter or cashew butter, ensure it’s well mixed for best results)
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 11/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 11/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 cup chocolate chips (or replace with walnuts, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, or raisins)
- 1/21/2 teaspoon salt
- 11/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Mix Wet Ingredients: Start by mixing the mashed bananas with your nut butter and the vanilla extract. Make sure there are no big chunks of banana left; otherwise, the texture will be off.
- Stir in Oats: Next, add the rolled oats to your banana mix, stirring gently until well-blended. A nice, thick consistency should form, which is crucial for chewy, hearty bars. Avoid using instant oats here; they tend to make the mixture too mushy.
- Add Mix-Ins: Now it is time to toss in any optional mix-ins, like nuts or seeds. Make sure not to go overboard, as too many add-ins can throw off the consistency.
- Spread Into Pan: Spread your mixture evenly into a lined baking pan, smoothing it out with a spatula. Make sure the top is level and slightly shiny from the bananas to ensure even baking.
- Bake Until Set: Pop the pan into a preheated oven and bake until the edges start to turn golden brown. Allow the bars to bake fully to ensure they hold together well.
- Cool and Slice: Once the bars are out, let them cool completely before cutting them into squares. This patience is essential for them to firm up; otherwise, they might fall apart when sliced.
Notes
- Storage Tips: Store the banana oatmeal bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or at room temperature for around 2 days. For longer storage, wrap individually in plastic wrap and freeze for 2-3 months.
- Expert Tips: If the bars feel too soft, waiting at least 30 minutes for them to cool completely will help them firm up. Stick with rolled oats for the best texture and avoid instant oats that may lead to a mushy bar. Use binder clips to secure the parchment paper in place while mixing the ingredients, preventing any shifting.
- Reheating Instructions: Reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds if desired.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with yogurt for a balanced breakfast or serve with a drizzle of honey or nut butter. Enjoy with fresh fruit slices on the side.
- Recipe Variations: Replace chocolate chips with dried fruit like cranberries, or add spices like nutmeg or ginger for a flavor twist. Incorporate different nut butters for varied tastes.
- Ingredient Notes: When selecting bananas, use overripe ones for the best sweetness. If you do not have nut butter, peanut butter or cashew butter can be used effectively. Substitution options for chocolate chips include walnuts, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, or raisins based on personal preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 173
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 82mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 2mg