Banana Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Bars Recipe

Introduction

These Banana Oatmeal Bars are a wholesome and delicious snack, perfect for a quick breakfast or an afternoon treat. Packed with natural sweetness and hearty oats, they’re easy to make and great for on-the-go eating.

Ingredients

• 1½ cups mashed bananas (approx. 3 bananas)
• ½ cup nut butter
• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 cup chocolate chips
• ½ teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat the oven to 350°F and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, nut butter, rolled oats, cinnamon, vanilla extract, maple syrup, chocolate chips, and salt. Mix well until fully incorporated.
3. Step 3: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan. Press it down firmly and evenly to form a flat layer. For extra chocolatey flavor, sprinkle some additional chocolate chips on top.
4. Step 4: Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the edges turn golden and the bars are set. Let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.

Tips & Variations

• Substitute nut butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version.
• Add chopped nuts or dried fruit for extra texture and flavor.
• Use dark chocolate chips to reduce sweetness or add cocoa nibs for a crunchy twist.
• Press the mixture firmly into the pan to help the bars hold together better after baking.

Storage

Store the banana oatmeal bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat briefly in the microwave if desired before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use old bananas for this recipe?

Yes, overripe bananas work perfectly because they are softer and sweeter, enhancing the flavor and texture of the bars.

Are these bars gluten-free?

They can be, as long as you use certified gluten-free rolled oats. Check your oat package to confirm they are processed in a gluten-free facility.

Banana Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Bars Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 72 reviews

These Banana Oatmeal Bars are a delicious, wholesome snack made with ripe bananas, nut butter, rolled oats, and chocolate chips. They are naturally sweetened with maple syrup and flavored with cinnamon and vanilla, offering a nutritious and satisfying treat perfect for breakfast or an on-the-go snack.

• Author: Amy
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 9 bars (3×3 grid) 1x
• Category: Snack
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Wet Ingredients

• 1½ cups mashed bananas (approx. 3 bananas)
• ½ cup nut butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 tablespoons maple syrup

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Preheat and prepare the pan. Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make removal easier.
2. Mix ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, nut butter, rolled oats, cinnamon, vanilla extract, maple syrup, chocolate chips, and salt. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
3. Transfer to pan. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and use a spatula to flatten it into an even, compact layer. For extra chocolatey goodness, sprinkle additional chocolate chips on top if desired.
4. Bake the bars. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and the bars are set. Avoid overbaking to maintain moisture.
5. Cool and cut. Remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, lift out using the parchment paper and cut into individual bars for serving.

Notes

• You can substitute nut butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version.
• For a sweeter bar, add extra maple syrup or more chocolate chips.
• Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
• These bars freeze well; wrap individually and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Ensure bananas are ripe for maximum sweetness and moisture.

Keywords: banana oatmeal bars, healthy snack, baked bars, banana snacks, oatmeal bars with chocolate, easy snack bars