Banana Oatmeal Bars

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Homemade banana oatmeal bars ready to be enjoyed as a nutritious snack.

Banana Oatmeal Bars are a delicious and healthy snack that you can whip up in no time! These bars are perfect for breakfast, a midday pick-me-up, or even a sweet treat after dinner. Made from wholesome ingredients, they are sure to please both kids and adults alike. With their chewy texture, lovely banana flavor, and a hint of cinnamon, these bars are a fantastic way to use up overripe bananas. Plus, they can be customized with your favorite additions like nuts or chocolate chips!

What You’ll Need for Banana Oatmeal Bars

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather everything you need to make these delightful bars.

  • 2 ripe bananas (about 250g)
  • 1 cup rolled oats (90g)
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (2g)
  • 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (optional, 60ml)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (2.5ml)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (1.5g)
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips (optional, 90g)

Step-by-Step Recipe for Banana Oatmeal Bars

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s get baking! Follow these simple steps to create your own Banana Oatmeal Bars.

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish (about 8×8 inches or 20×20 cm) with parchment paper.
  2. In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth.
  3. Add the rolled oats, cinnamon, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until everything is well combined.
  4. If you want a little extra crunch or sweetness, fold in the chopped nuts or chocolate chips at this point.
  5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly with a spatula.
  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean from the center.
  7. Let the bars cool in the pan before cutting them into squares. Enjoy!

How to Serve Banana Oatmeal Bars

These bars can be enjoyed in numerous ways! Serve them warm or at room temperature, either plain or with a dollop of yogurt on top. They make a wonderful breakfast option when paired with fresh fruit, like berries or sliced bananas.

If you’re serving them for dessert, consider drizzling some melted dark chocolate over the top for an extra treat. You can also pack them in lunchboxes for a nutritious snack or a quick on-the-go meal!

Expert Tips for Banana Oatmeal Bars

  • Use overripe bananas: The riper your bananas are, the sweeter and more flavorful your bars will be. Look for bananas with brown spots for the best results!
  • Experiment with mix-ins: Feel free to get creative! You can add dried fruits, seeds, or even a sprinkle of nutmeg for a different flavor profile.
  • Storage: Keep your bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the refrigerator for a week.

Banana Oatmeal Bars FAQs

1. Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, you can use instant oats! However, the texture may be softer than with rolled oats.

2. Can I freeze these bars?
Absolutely! Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Just thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy.

3. Are these bars suitable for breakfast?
Definitely! Banana Oatmeal Bars are a great option for a quick and nutritious breakfast packed with energy.

Banana Oatmeal Bars are not just simple to make; they are also versatile and tasty. With just a few common ingredients, you can create a nourishing treat that’s perfect for any time of day. So grab those ripe bananas, get in the kitchen, and try making these delicious bars today!