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why make this recipe

Banana Oatmeal Bars are a tasty and nutritious snack that is perfect for busy mornings or an afternoon pick-me-up. They combine the natural sweetness of bananas with hearty oats and chocolate chips, making them a delightful treat. These bars are easy to make and are a great way to use up ripe bananas. Plus, they are packed with healthy ingredients, giving you energy without the guilt.

how to make Banana Oatmeal Bars

Ingredients

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
1 cup chocolate chips
½ teaspoon salt

Directions

Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9 baking pan with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, mix together the mashed bananas, nut butter, rolled oats, cinnamon, vanilla extract, maple syrup, chocolate chips, and salt until well combined.
Transfer the mixture to the lined baking pan and flatten it into an even layer. Feel free to add more chocolate chips on top for extra sweetness!
Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the edges of the bars are golden and the center appears set.
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares.

how to serve Banana Oatmeal Bars

You can serve Banana Oatmeal Bars as a quick breakfast, a snack, or a dessert. They pair well with a cup of tea or coffee. You can also enjoy them with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of peanut butter on top for an extra treat.

how to store Banana Oatmeal Bars

Store the Banana Oatmeal Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can place them in the refrigerator for up to a week. They also freeze well; just wrap them tightly and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months.

tips to make Banana Oatmeal Bars

Make sure to use ripe bananas for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
You can substitute the nut butter with any other type you prefer, such as almond or sunflower seed butter.
For a little crunch, consider adding nuts or seeds to the mixture.
Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less maple syrup based on your taste.

variation

You can customize these bars by adding different ingredients. Try including dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for added texture. You can also use spices like nutmeg or ginger for a warm flavor twist.

FAQs

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats, but the texture may be slightly different. Rolled oats give a heartier bar.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just ensure you use certified gluten-free oats and nut butter.

How can I make these bars vegan?
This recipe is naturally vegan if you use plant-based nut butter and maple syrup. Just avoid any non-vegan add-ins like certain chocolate chips if you want to keep it completely plant-based.

These Banana Oatmeal Bars are simple, delicious, and make a great addition to your recipe collection! Enjoy making and sharing them!