Description
These Banana Oatmeal Bars are a wholesome and delicious snack or breakfast option made with mashed bananas, nut butter, rolled oats, and sweetened with maple syrup. Packed with cinnamon and vanilla bean paste for added warmth and flavor, plus gooey chocolate chips for a sweet touch, these bars bake to a chewy, satisfying texture perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients
Banana Mixture
- 1½ cups mashed bananas (approx. 3 ripe bananas)
- ½ cup nut butter (such as almond or peanut butter)
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
Add-ins
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C) 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 bean paste, maple syrup, chocolate chips, and salt. Stir well to create a uniform batter.
- Transfer and flatten: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly into a flat, compact layer. You can sprinkle additional chocolate chips on top for extra chocolatey goodness.
- Bake: Bake the bars for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and the bars feel set when touched.
- Cool and cut: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into 16 servings for clean slices and best texture.
Notes
- Use ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture.
- Nut butter can be substituted with sunflower seed butter to make the recipe nut-free.
- For a vegan version, ensure the chocolate chips are dairy-free.
- Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- These bars freeze well—wrap individually and freeze up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18-20 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
