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Banana Oatmeal Bars are a delicious and wholesome treat that fit perfectly into a busy lifestyle. These bars, made with simple ingredients, provide the perfect combination of sweetness and nutrition, making them an excellent choice for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert.
Why Make This Recipe
These Banana Oatmeal Bars are not only easy to make, but they are also packed with nutrients. The ripe bananas provide natural sweetness and a good dose of potassium, while rolled oats offer fiber that keeps you full for longer. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast on-the-go or a healthy snack to satisfy your cravings, these bars are a fantastic option. Plus, they can be prepared in advance, making them a convenient choice for meal prepping.
How to Make Banana Oatmeal Bars
Ingredients:
- 3 ripe bananas (about 1 ½ cups mashed)
- 2 cups rolled oats
- ⅓ cup honey or pure maple syrup
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
- Add the rolled oats, honey or maple syrup, eggs, baking powder, and vanilla extract; stir until well combined.
- Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool for at least ten minutes before slicing into squares.
How to Serve Banana Oatmeal Bars
Banana Oatmeal Bars can be served warm or at room temperature. They make for a delightful breakfast paired with a cup of coffee or tea. For added flavor, consider drizzling some nut butter on top or serving with fresh fruit. They are also great on their own as a snack throughout the day.
How to Store Banana Oatmeal Bars
To keep your Banana Oatmeal Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for about a week or freeze for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil before freezing.
Tips to Make Banana Oatmeal Bars
- Ensure your bananas are very ripe for maximum sweetness.
- Feel free to add mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit to enhance the flavor.
- If you prefer a vegan option, substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce.
Variation
You can easily customize your Banana Oatmeal Bars. For a chocolatey twist, incorporate cocoa powder or chocolate chips. If you enjoy a nutty flavor, try adding chopped walnuts or almond slices. These bars are versatile, and you can modify the recipe to cater to your taste preferences.