Pin it
These wholesome banana baked oatmeal bars have been my go-to solution for busy mornings and healthy snacking for years. Packed with nutritious ingredients and naturally sweetened, they're perfect for meal prep and on-the-go eating.
I first created these bars when looking for a portable breakfast option for my busy family. Now they're requested weekly and have become our favorite road trip snack that keeps everyone satisfied without the sugar crash.
Ingredients
- Rolled oats: form the hearty base providing fiber and sustained energy
- Mashed banana: adds natural sweetness and moist texture
- Water: helps bind everything together without extra calories
- Salt: enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness
- Pure maple syrup: brings rich caramel notes you cant get from processed sugar
- Oil or nut butter: adds richness and helps with texture
- Vanilla extract: rounds out the flavor profile with warmth
- Optional mix-ins: like chocolate chips or nuts for customization
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Turn your oven to 350°F while you prepare the mixture. This gives it time to reach the perfect temperature. Line an 8inch square pan with parchment paper or grease it thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Mix Ingredients:
- In a large bowl combine the rolled oats mashed banana water salt maple syrup oil and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is evenly incorporated. The mixture should be moist and hold together when pressed.
- Add Mix-ins:
- Gently fold in any optional ingredients like chocolate chips chopped nuts dried fruit or seeds. Reserve some to sprinkle on top for a beautiful presentation.
- Transfer to Pan:
- Spoon the mixture into your prepared pan spreading it evenly with a spatula or the back of a spoon. Press down firmly to ensure the bars will hold together after baking.
- Bake and Rest:
- Bake for exactly 20 minutes until the edges turn golden brown. Without opening the oven door turn off the heat and let the bars continue setting in the residual heat for 5 more minutes this critical step ensures the perfect chewy texture.
- Cool and Slice:
- Allow the baked oatmeal to cool completely in the pan before lifting out by the parchment paper and slicing into bars. For cleaner cuts use a sharp knife and wipe it between cuts.
Pin it
The mashed banana is truly the secret ingredient here. Not only does it bind everything together naturally without eggs but it also provides potassium and creates that perfect moist texture that makes these bars so satisfying. I remember bringing a batch to a family gathering where my notoriously picky nephew devoured three bars before anyone could tell him they were healthy!
Storage Solutions
These banana oatmeal bars are the perfect make-ahead option for busy people. After cooling completely wrap individual bars in parchment paper then place in an airtight container. They will keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days maintaining their chewy texture and flavor. For longer storage freeze them for up to three months. I like to freeze them on a baking sheet first then transfer to a freezer bag once solid this prevents them from sticking together.
Customization Options
One of the greatest strengths of this recipe is its versatility. For a protein boost add a scoop of your favorite protein powder or swap the chocolate chips for collagen peptides. Need it vegan? Use maple syrup and plant-based butter. For different flavor profiles try adding cinnamon cardamom or nutmeg. My personal favorite variation includes a tablespoon of orange zest and dried cranberries for a bright wintery twist that pairs perfectly with morning coffee.
Pin it
Nutritional Benefits
These bars offer an impressive nutritional profile compared to store bought alternatives. The rolled oats provide beta glucan a type of soluble fiber known to help lower cholesterol levels and improve heart health. Bananas add potassium and vitamin B6 while also sweetening naturally. By controlling the ingredients you avoid the preservatives artificial flavors and excess sugars found in commercial bars. At just about 90 calories per serving these make a perfectly portioned snack that satisfies without derailing health goals.
Serving Suggestions
While these bars are wonderful on their own there are countless ways to enjoy them. For a more substantial breakfast warm a bar slightly and top with a dollop of Greek yogurt and fresh berries. For a special treat drizzle with a little almond butter and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Pack them alongside a piece of fruit and handful of nuts for a balanced lunch box addition. They even work as a healthy dessert when warmed and topped with a small scoop of vanilla ice cream for an oatmeal cookie inspired treat that satisfies sweet cravings.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make these oatmeal bars banana-free?
Yes, you can substitute the mashed banana with alternatives like applesauce or try other baked oats for variety.
- → How should I store leftover oatmeal bars?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze them for a few months.
- → Can I add extra ingredients to the bars?
Yes, feel free to add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruits to the mix for additional flavor.
- → What can I use instead of maple syrup?
Maple syrup can be substituted with honey, agave syrup, or a stevia equivalent for sweetness.
- → What type of oats should I use?
Rolled oats work best for this recipe, but quick oats can also be used in a pinch. Avoid steel-cut oats.