Are you ready to indulge in a guilt-free treat that’s both delicious and nutritious? Say hello to our mouthwatering Banana Nut Oatmeal Bars! Bursting with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and the crunch of nuts, these bars are the perfect on-the-go snack or a delightful breakfast option. With just a few simple ingredients and a quick preparation time, you can whip up a batch that will have your family and friends coming back for seconds. Trust us, once you try these bars, they will become a staple in your kitchen!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly mash the ripe bananas using a fork until they become a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Add the rolled oats, chopped nuts, honey, cinnamon, and salt to the mashed bananas. Mix all ingredients together until well combined and evenly distributed.
- If using chocolate chips, gently fold them into the mixture, ensuring they are evenly spread throughout the batter.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly and create a smooth, compact layer.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 23-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the top is slightly firm to the touch.
- Remove from the oven and let the bars cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes at room temperature.
- Using the parchment paper overhang, carefully lift the bars out of the pan and transfer to a wire cooling rack.
- Allow the bars to cool completely for about 30 minutes before cutting into 12 equal bars.
- Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for extended freshness.
Tips
- Choose Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter your bars will be. Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots for the best flavor.
- Customize Your Nuts: Feel free to experiment with different types of nuts! Walnuts, pecans, or even almonds can add unique flavors and textures to your bars.
- Add Some Spice: Don’t hesitate to enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of vanilla extract to the mixture for an extra layer of warmth.
- Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the bars as they bake. Ovens can vary, so check for a golden brown edge and a firm top to ensure they’re perfectly cooked.
- Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them. This helps them set and makes for cleaner, neater slices.
- Store Properly: To maintain freshness, store the bars in an airtight container. They can last up to 5 days at room temperature or longer in the fridge.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
