If you are looking for a wholesome, comforting snack that feels like a warm hug in every bite, this Banana Oatmeal Bars Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with hearty rolled oats and a touch of cinnamon, these bars are simple yet packed with flavor and texture. Perfect for breakfast on the go or an afternoon pick-me-up, they are made with pantry staples you likely already have, making them a go-to recipe for busy days when you want something nutritious and delicious without any fuss. I can’t wait to share this wonderful recipe with you because it truly turns classic ingredients into a nourishing treat everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, working together to create the perfect balance of taste, texture, and aroma in your Banana Oatmeal Bars Recipe. From the natural sweetness of bananas to the warm spice of cinnamon, these simple pantry staples come to life in one delightful bite.
- 1½ cups mashed bananas: Use ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture, which helps bind the bars perfectly.
- ½ cup nut butter: Adds creaminess and richness; peanut or almond butter work beautifully for flavor and texture.
- 2 cups rolled oats: The heart of the bars, providing hearty chewiness and fiber to keep you full.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: A warm spice that adds subtle depth and a hint of cozy flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances sweetness and rounds out the flavor profile with a lovely aroma.
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup: Natural sweetness that also helps to hold the bars together.
- 1 cup chocolate chips: A little indulgence packed with melty pockets of chocolate in every bite.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all of the ingredients’ flavors.
How to Make Banana Oatmeal Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat the Oven
Begin by heating your oven to 350°F and lining a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper. This step ensures your bars won’t stick and makes cleanup so much easier, setting you up for stress-free baking.
Step 2: Mix All Ingredients Together
In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, nut butter, rolled oats, cinnamon, vanilla extract, maple syrup, chocolate chips, and salt. Stir everything until well mixed. It’s such a satisfying moment when all those simple, wholesome ingredients come together into a sticky, chocolate-speckled batter.
Step 3: Press the Mixture into the Pan
Transfer the batter to your prepared pan and use a spatula or your hands to flatten it into an even layer. If you want a little extra chocolatey goodness, sprinkle a handful of chocolate chips on top and gently press them in. This step makes the bars look irresistibly inviting!
Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Set
Bake the bars for 18 to 20 minutes until the edges turn golden and the bars are set but still soft. The smell of warm bananas, cinnamon, and chocolate filling your kitchen at this point is pure magic.
Step 5: Cool Completely Before Cutting
Allow the bars to cool entirely in the pan before slicing into 16 squares. Cooling is key here—it helps the bars firm up so they hold together nicely without crumbling.
How to Serve Banana Oatmeal Bars Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted nut butter makes an elegant finish for these bars. You can also add a sprinkle of chia seeds or toasted coconut flakes for extra texture and a bit of flair.
Side Dishes
Pair your Banana Oatmeal Bars with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a glass of cold milk for a balanced snack. These bars also complement a fresh fruit salad beautifully, rounding out a wholesome breakfast or afternoon snack.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these bars stacked on a pretty plate for a casual snack table. Or cut them into bite-size pieces and skewer them with fruit for a fun and portable treat. Wrapping individual bars in parchment and tying them with twine also makes for lovely homemade gifts!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your Banana Oatmeal Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, placing the container in the fridge will keep them fresh for about a week.
Freezing
These bars freeze exceptionally well! Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw at room temperature for a quick and nutritious snack anytime.
Reheating
If you like your bars warm, pop one in the microwave for about 15 seconds or heat a few in the oven at 300°F until warmed through. The melty chocolate and soft oats feel just as comforting as when freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use different nut butters for this Banana Oatmeal Bars Recipe?
Absolutely! Peanut butter is classic, but almond, cashew, or even sunflower seed butter work wonderfully and bring subtle variations in flavor and richness.
Are rolled oats necessary or can I use quick oats?
Rolled oats are ideal because they hold their texture better, but if you only have quick oats, you can use those; just note the texture may be softer and less chewy.
Can I make these bars vegan?
Yes! The recipe is naturally vegan if you choose vegan chocolate chips and ensure your nut butter doesn’t contain any animal products.
Is it possible to add nuts or dried fruit?
For sure! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or dried cranberries mixed in add great flavor, crunch, and chewiness to these bars.
How ripe should the bananas be for the best results?
Choose bananas that are very ripe with brown spots—they’re sweeter, mash more easily, and give the bars great flavor and moisture.
Final Thoughts
This Banana Oatmeal Bars Recipe is truly a versatile, delicious, and wholesome treat that feels like a little slice of comfort anytime you need it. Whether for breakfast, a snack, or even a simple dessert, these bars hit the spot every time. Once you make them, I guarantee they’ll become one of your pantry staples for busy days and cozy moments alike. Give it a try and watch how quickly they disappear!
Print
Banana Oatmeal Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These delicious Banana Oatmeal Bars are made with simple pantry staples and are perfect for a healthy breakfast or a satisfying snack. Packed with mashed bananas, rolled oats, and a touch of sweetness from maple syrup and chocolate chips, these bars are wholesome, filling, and easy to make.
Ingredients
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
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Heat the oven to 350°F and line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- 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 thoroughly until the mixture is well blended.
- Prepare the Pan: Transfer the mixture into the lined baking pan. Press it down firmly and evenly to form a flat layer. Optionally, sprinkle additional chocolate chips on top for extra flavor and texture.
- Bake the Bars: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the edges turn golden and the bars look set.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, cut into 16 bars and enjoy.
Notes
- You can substitute any nut butter of your choice, such as almond or peanut butter.
- For a vegan option, ensure the chocolate chips are dairy-free.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Adding chopped nuts or dried fruits can enhance texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
