Hearty Banana Oatmeal Bars
These hearty banana oatmeal bars are a perfect breakfast or snack, packed with wholesome ingredients and easy to make.
Equipment
- Baking dish
- Parchment paper (or non-stick spray)
- Large bowl
- Mashing utensil (fork or potato masher)
- Spatula or spoon
- Wire rack
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/4 cup milk (any kind)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey optional
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- salt Pinch
Optional Add-ins
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips, nuts, dried fruit
Instructions
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper or grease it well.
- In a large bowl, mash ripe bananas thoroughly, then stir in milk, maple syrup (if using), and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Add rolled oats, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined and moistened.
- If using, gently fold in chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit into the mixture.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and firmly press it down evenly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the edges are lightly golden brown and the bars are set in the center.
- Remove from oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before slicing.
Notes
For best results, use very ripe bananas (with brown spots) for extra sweetness. These bars are great for meal prepping and can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerated for up to a week.