Banana Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Bars Recipe

Introduction

These Banana Oatmeal Bars are a delicious and wholesome snack, perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat. Made with ripe bananas, oats, and a touch of cinnamon, they offer natural sweetness and satisfying texture.

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

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, nut butter, rolled oats, cinnamon, vanilla extract, maple syrup, chocolate chips, and salt. Stir until all ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
3. Step 3: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan. Press it down evenly into a flat layer. Optionally, sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top for added sweetness.
4. Step 4: Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the bars feel set. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.

Tips & Variations

• Use almond or peanut butter based on your preference or allergy needs.
• Add chopped nuts or dried fruit for extra texture.
• Substitute chocolate chips with raisins or carob chips for a different flavor.
• Ensure bananas are very ripe for natural sweetness and moisture.

Storage

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them refrigerated for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat briefly in the microwave if desired.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Quick oats can be used, but rolled oats provide better texture and structure for the bars.

Are these bars gluten-free?

They can be gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free oats. Otherwise, regular oats may contain traces of gluten.

Banana Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Bars Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 59 reviews

These Banana Oatmeal Bars are a delicious and nutritious treat combining the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with hearty rolled oats and rich chocolate chips. Perfect for breakfast or a healthy snack, these bars are simple to make and baked to a golden perfection, providing a chewy texture with delightful bursts of chocolate.

• Author: Naya
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 18-20 minutes
• Total Time: 28-30 minutes
• Yield: 12 bars 1x
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Banana Oatmeal Bars Ingredients

• 1½ cups mashed bananas (approx. 3 ripe bananas)
• ½ cup nut butter (such as almond or peanut butter)
• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 cup chocolate chips
• ½ teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Preheat oven and prepare pan: Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the bars.
2. Mix ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, nut butter, rolled oats, cinnamon, vanilla extract, maple syrup, chocolate chips, and salt. Stir well until the mixture is uniform and all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Shape and add topping: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan. Flatten it into an even, compact layer using a spatula or your hands. Optionally, sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top for added flavor and appeal.
4. Bake the bars: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and the bars are set in the middle. Baking ensures the bars hold their shape and develop texture.
5. Cool and cut: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, lift the parchment paper to remove the slab and cut into bars of your desired size.

Notes

• Use ripe bananas for natural sweetness and optimal moisture.
• Nut butter can be substituted with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version.
• Ensure oats are rolled oats for proper texture; instant oats may alter consistency.
• Storage: Keep bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
• For a vegan option, ensure the chocolate chips are dairy-free.
• Optional add-ins: chopped nuts, dried fruit, or seeds can be included for extra texture and nutrition.

Keywords: banana oatmeal bars, healthy breakfast bars, baked oatmeal bars, banana snacks, homemade granola bars, vegetarian breakfast