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Healthy Banana Oatmeal Bars

Dense, chewy, and moist oatmeal bars naturally sweetened with ripe bananas and a touch of honey. Perfect for a healthy grab-and-go breakfast or snack.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 9 bars
Course: Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 medium ripe bananas mashed (approx 1.5 cups)
  • 2 cups rolled oats certified gluten-free if needed
  • 0.5 cup nut butter peanut, almond, or sunflower seed butter
  • 0.25 cup honey or maple syrup for vegan option
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 0.25 tsp salt
  • 1 banana sliced for mixing in (optional)

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • 8x8 inch baking pan
  • Spatula
  • Potato masher or fork

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease.
  2. In a large bowl, thoroughly mash the ripe bananas.
  3. Whisk in the nut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract until fully combined with the bananas.
  4. Add the rolled oats, cinnamon, and salt. Fold with a spatula until the oats are completely coated.
  5. If using, gently fold in the additional banana slices.
  6. Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and press down firmly into an even layer.
  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the edges are golden and the center feels set.
  8. Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before lifting out and cutting into squares.

Notes

Crucial: Let bars cool completely before cutting or they will crumble. Use very ripe bananas for the best sweetness.