Freezer-Friendly Banana Oatmeal Bars (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

01 - 2 cups rolled oats
02 - 1 1/3 cups mashed banana
03 - 6 tablespoons water
04 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
05 - 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup, agave, or honey
06 - Stevia equivalent for sweetener (optional)
07 - 3 tablespoons oil, nut butter, or additional water
08 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
09 - Optional handful of chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or similar toppings

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line an 8-inch pan with parchment paper or grease it well.
02 - Stir all ingredients together until well combined. Smooth the mixture evenly into the prepared pan.
03 - Sprinkle chocolate chips or desired toppings on top, if using. Bake for 20 minutes. Do not open the oven door upon completion but turn off the heat and let the dish sit in the closed oven for an additional 5 minutes.
04 - Let the baked oatmeal cool slightly before slicing into bars. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze for a few months.

# Notes:

01 - These bars can also be made banana-free by trying variations such as baked oats with alternative ingredients.