Banana Oatmeal Bars

Who can resist the heavenly aroma of freshly baked Banana Oatmeal Bars wafting through the kitchen?

This delightful recipe is a quick and easy solution for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. Made with just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip these bars up in no time. They’re creamy, chewy, and utterly irresistible, making it a one-pan wonder that’s bound to become a household favorite.

Why make this recipe

You’ll love this recipe because:

• Minimal cleanup: Who wants to spend the day scrubbing pans? With just one bowl and one dish to clean, you can savor your bars without the hassle.
• Family-approved: These chewy treats are not just healthy; they’re kid-approved too! The sweetness of the bananas means no sugar overload—just happiness.
• Budget-friendly: All you need are pantry staples! You won’t need to break the bank to enjoy something delicious and wholesome.

Ingredients

You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!

• 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

It’s as easy as pie! Follow these steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
3. Add in the rolled oats, honey or maple syrup, eggs, baking powder, and vanilla extract; stir until well combined.
4. Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared dish and spread it evenly.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
7. Let cool for at least ten minutes before slicing into squares.

How to make Banana Oatmeal Bars (Overview)

Making these bars is a breeze. Start by mashing up those ripe bananas, which brings out their natural sweetness. Next, toss in your oats and the rest of your ingredients. Mix it all together, and voilà! Pour it into your pan and let the oven work its magic. Pro tip: The longer you let them cool, the better they slice!

How to serve Banana Oatmeal Bars

Once your Banana Oatmeal Bars come out of the oven, they look like golden rectangles of deliciousness. Serve them warm for a melty goodness that just begs for a drizzle of honey or a dollop of yogurt. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or some chopped nuts on top for a delightful crunch! The aroma? Think cozy coffee shop vibes—heavenly! ☕

How to store Banana Oatmeal Bars

These bars will keep in the fridge for about a week and up to three months in the freezer. If you’re planning on making them ahead, slice them first, then separate layers with parchment paper for easy access later. Reheat in the microwave for a quick snack that tastes just as good as fresh.

Tips to make Banana Oatmeal Bars

Here are a few handy tips to nail your Banana Oatmeal Bars:

• Use overripe bananas for maximum sweetness—brown spots are your best friend!
• Add chocolate chips or nuts for a yummy twist.
• Want a gluten-free version? Make sure your oats are certified gluten-free.
• Feel free to adjust the sweetness; less honey can work if you like it on the mild side.

Variation

Feeling adventurous? Try swapping out the honey for peanut butter for a nutty flavor. Or go vegan by replacing eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tbsp water = 1 egg). Throw in some shredded coconut or dried fruit for a fun twist on the classic!

FAQs

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, but rolled oats give a better texture! Quick oats can make them a bit softer.

Can I freeze these bars?
Absolutely! Just let them cool completely, slice, and store them in an airtight container between layers of parchment paper.

How can I add protein to these bars?
Consider stirring in a scoop of your favorite protein powder or some Greek yogurt into the mix before baking.

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!

Banana Oatmeal Bars

These Chewy Banana Oatmeal Bars are an easy, one-pan treat perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, combining wholesome ingredients with minimal cleanup.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 9 pieces

Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 150

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main ingredients

• 3 ripe bananas (about 1 ½ cups mashed) Use overripe bananas for maximum sweetness.
• 2 cups rolled oats Quick oats can be used but may alter the texture.
• ⅓ cup honey or pure maple syrup Adjust sweetness to preference.
• 2 large eggs For a vegan option, replace with flax eggs.
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
3. Add in the rolled oats, honey or maple syrup, eggs, baking powder, and vanilla extract; stir until well combined.
4. Grease an 8x8-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared dish and spread it evenly.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
7. Let cool for at least ten minutes before slicing into squares.

Notes

These bars can be stored in the fridge for about a week and up to three months in the freezer. Reheat in the microwave for a quick snack. Add chocolate chips or nuts for extra flavor.