A quick, healthy snack you can make with few ingredients.
introduction
These Banana Oatmeal Bars are simple and good for kids and adults. They use ripe bananas and oats. You can make them in one bowl and bake them fast. For a different banana treat, try a banana pudding cookies recipe that uses similar flavors.
why make this recipe
Make this recipe when you want a quick, healthy snack. It uses whole oats and natural banana sweetness. The bars are good for breakfast, lunchboxes, or a light dessert. If you like banana desserts, you may also enjoy a creamy banana pudding with Biscoff cookies for a no-bake option.
how to make Banana Oatmeal Bars
This recipe is easy. Mash bananas, mix with oats and a few pantry items, press into a pan, and bake. You do not need any special tools. Below are the exact ingredients and steps to follow. For variations and more banana ideas, check a simple banana pudding cookies recipe that pairs well with these bars.
Ingredients :
- 2 ripe bananas
- 2 cups oats
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup nut butter (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips or nuts (optional)
Directions :
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
- Add the oats, cinnamon, honey or maple syrup, nut butter, salt, and baking powder. Mix until well combined.
- Stir in chocolate chips or nuts if using.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and press it down evenly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are golden.
- Allow to cool, then cut into bars and enjoy!
how to serve Banana Oatmeal Bars
Cut bars into squares and serve warm or at room temperature. Add a spread of peanut butter or a drizzle of yogurt for more flavor. They go well with a cup of tea or milk. You can also serve them with a side of fresh fruit for a fuller snack, or try a creamy banana pudding with Biscoff cookies for a different dessert style.
how to store Banana Oatmeal Bars
Cool completely before storing. Keep bars in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days. You can freeze the bars for up to 3 months; wrap each bar or place parchment between layers in a freezer bag.
tips to make Banana Oatmeal Bars
- Use very ripe bananas for the best sweetness.
- Press the mixture firmly into the pan so the bars hold together.
- If bars seem dry, add a tablespoon of milk or extra mashed banana.
- For nut-free bars, skip the nut butter and use sunflower seed butter.
- For another banana treat idea, see a quick banana pudding cookies recipe that makes a great pairing.
variation (if any)
- Add 1/2 cup dried fruit like raisins or chopped dates.
- Swap cinnamon for a pinch of nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice.
- Make them chocolatey by using cocoa powder and extra chocolate chips.
- Turn into muffins: divide the batter into a lined muffin tin and bake 15-18 minutes.
FAQs
Q: Can I use quick oats or old-fashioned oats?
A: Yes. Both work. Quick oats make a softer bar. Old-fashioned oats give a chewier texture.
Q: Can I sweeten with sugar instead of honey or maple syrup?
A: You can, but the bars may be drier. Honey or maple adds moisture and flavor.
Q: Are these bars gluten-free?
A: They can be if you use certified gluten-free oats.
Q: Can I make these without baking?
A: You can press and chill them to set, but the texture differs from baked bars.
Q: How do I stop the bars from falling apart?
A: Press the mix well into the pan and cool fully before cutting. Add a little more nut butter or mashed banana if needed.
Conclusion
These banana oatmeal bars are easy and healthy. They use simple pantry items and bake in under 30 minutes. For another very simple take on banana-oat bars, see the Roasted Root 4-Ingredient Banana Oatmeal Bars that keep the list short. If you want a similar but different recipe, check Carmy’s Banana Oatmeal Bars for more ideas and inspiration.
Banana Oatmeal Bars
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pieces ripe bananas Use very ripe bananas for the best sweetness.
- 2 cups oats Both quick oats and old-fashioned oats can be used.
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon Can swap for nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice.
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup Adds moisture and flavor.
- 1/4 cup nut butter (optional) For nut-free bars, use sunflower seed butter.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips or nuts (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
- Add the oats, cinnamon, honey or maple syrup, nut butter, salt, and baking powder. Mix until well combined.
- Stir in chocolate chips or nuts if using.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and press it down evenly.
Baking
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are golden.
- Allow to cool, then cut into bars and enjoy!
