Banana Oatmeal Bars are the ultimate grab and go breakfast, snack, or even dessert that feels like a warm hug in every bite. Think about those lazy Sunday mornings when the smell of baking banana bread fills the house. Now, imagine that same deliciousness condensed into a perfectly portable bar. Trust me, these Banana Oatmeal Bars are about to become your new best friend.
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I’ve been baking these for years, tweaking the recipe until it reached peak perfection. They’re moist, chewy, and bursting with banana flavor, with a hint of cinnamon that just rounds everything out. Forget complicated recipes and fussy ingredients – these Banana Oatmeal Bars are all about simplicity and incredible taste. These wonderful bars are a perfect treat to whip up after making Easy Banana Bread Recipe 2 Bananas.
Why You Will Love This Banana Oatmeal Bars Recipe
These Banana Oatmeal Bars are more than just a recipe; they’re a comforting experience. They’re the perfect solution for busy mornings when you need something quick and satisfying. The aroma of baking bananas and oats is enough to make any day better.
What makes these bars so special? First, they are incredibly easy to make. You don’t need any fancy equipment or baking skills. Second, they are packed with flavor. The combination of ripe bananas, rolled oats, and a touch of cinnamon creates a delicious symphony of tastes. Third, they are incredibly versatile. Eat them for breakfast, enjoy them as a snack, or even serve them as a light dessert.
These bars have saved me on countless occasions when I needed a quick breakfast or a healthy snack. They are also a great way to use up those ripe bananas that are sitting on your counter. Plus, the recipe is easily customizable. You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit to make them your own. They are such a hit with kids and adults alike.
Ingredients Needed for This Banana Oatmeal Bars Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a batch of my favorite Banana Oatmeal Bars. Don’t be intimidated by the list; most of these ingredients are pantry staples!
For the Base:
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats (not instant)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries
How to Make This Banana Oatmeal Bars Recipe
Ready to transform those ripe bananas into a batch of these irresistible Banana Oatmeal Bars? Follow these simple steps for baking success!
- 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- 2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- 3. Beat in the mashed bananas, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined. Make sure the egg is fully incorporated for a smooth batter.
- 4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- 5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter.
- 6. Stir in the rolled oats and any optional add-ins, such as chocolate chips or nuts. Gently fold them in for even distribution.
- 7. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
- 8. Bake for 25 30 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Check for doneness around 25 minutes to avoid overbaking.
- 9. Let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. Cooling completely helps them set properly.
How to Serve This Banana Oatmeal Bars Recipe
These Banana Oatmeal Bars are so versatile; there are countless ways to enjoy them!
- Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- Pair them with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee for a satisfying breakfast.
- Top them with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness.
- Enjoy them as a grab and go snack anytime you need a quick energy boost.
How to Store This Banana Oatmeal Bars Recipe
Proper storage will keep your Banana Oatmeal Bars fresh and delicious for days!
- Store the cooled bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, refrigerate the bars in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- To freeze, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer safe bag for up to 2 months.
- Reheat the bars in the microwave for a few seconds or let them thaw at room temperature before serving.
Tips to Make This Banana Oatmeal Bars Recipe
Here are some tips and tricks to ensure baking success with these Banana Oatmeal Bars.
- Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and moisture. The riper, the better!
- Don’t overmix the batter, as this can result in tough bars.
- For a chewier texture, use old-fashioned rolled oats instead of quick oats.
- Add a tablespoon of flaxseed meal for extra nutrients and a slightly nutty flavor.
- If you don’t have brown sugar, you can make your own by mixing granulated sugar with a tablespoon of molasses.
Helpful Notes for This Banana Oatmeal Bars Recipe
Here are some additional notes to help you perfect your Banana Oatmeal Bars.
- If you’re using frozen bananas, make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
- You can substitute the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a slightly healthier version.
- For a vegan option, replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water).
- Use good quality vanilla extract for the best flavor.
Variation of This Banana Oatmeal Bars Recipe
Want to switch things up? Here are some fun and delicious variations of this Banana Oatmeal Bars recipe.
- Chocolate Chip Banana Oatmeal Bars: Add 1 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a chocolatey twist.
- Nutty Banana Oatmeal Bars: Mix in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds for added crunch and flavor.
- Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Bars: Swirl in 1/4 cup of peanut butter into the batter before baking.
- Cranberry Walnut Banana Oatmeal Bars: Add 1/2 cup of dried cranberries and 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts for a festive treat.
- Spiced Banana Oatmeal Bars: Add 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg or allspice to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor. You can always even whip up a batch of Easy Simple Banana Pudding Recipe to complement the banana flavour.
How do you keep banana oatmeal bars from being dry?
Using mashed ripe bananas and adding a touch of moisture (like applesauce or yogurt) are key to preventing dry banana oatmeal bars. Be careful not to overbake them, as this can also lead to dryness.
Can you freeze banana oatmeal bars?
Yes, banana oatmeal bars freeze very well. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap or foil and store them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2-3 months. Let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
What is the secret to chewy banana oatmeal bars?
The secret to chewy banana oatmeal bars lies in using melted butter and ensuring the oats are properly hydrated. Allowing the mixture to sit for a few minutes before baking helps the oats absorb moisture, resulting in a chewier texture.
Are banana oatmeal bars healthy?
Banana oatmeal bars can be a relatively healthy snack or breakfast option, depending on the ingredients used. Using whole wheat flour, reducing added sugar, and incorporating nuts or seeds can increase their nutritional value.
Conclusion
These Banana Oatmeal Bars are more than just a snack; they’re a little slice of happiness. I hope you enjoy making and sharing them as much as I do. Give this recipe a try, and let me know how it goes! Feel free to leave a comment below with your thoughts or any questions you may have. Enjoy the ease and flavour that these Banana Oatmeal Bars bring to your table!
