5-Minute Banana Oatmeal Bars: Quick Breakfast Prep with Only One Banana
5-Minute Banana Oatmeal Bars: Quick Breakfast Prep with Only One Banana
Looking for the perfect quick breakfast that tastes like banana bread but comes together in minutes? These banana oatmeal bars are your new go-to morning solution! With just one ripe banana and simple pantry ingredients, you can create wholesome breakfast cookie bars that are perfect for busy mornings, healthy snacks, or meal prep. No fancy equipment required – just mix, press, and bake!
Ingredients
- 1 ripe banana (the spottier, the better!)
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- Optional add-ins: 1/4 cup chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Mash your ripe banana in a medium bowl until smooth. The riper the banana, the sweeter your bars will be naturally!
Step 2: Mix Everything Together
Add all remaining ingredients to the mashed banana. Stir until well combined. The mixture will be thick and slightly sticky – that’s perfect!
Step 3: Press into Pan
Line a small baking dish (8×8 inch works well) with parchment paper. Transfer the oatmeal mixture and press it firmly into an even layer about 1/2 inch thick.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 15-20 minutes until the edges are golden brown. The bars will firm up as they cool, so don’t worry if they seem soft when they come out of the oven.
Step 5: Cool and Slice
Let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares. This resting time helps them set up properly.
Expert Tips for Perfect Banana Oatmeal Bars
Banana Selection: Use bananas with brown spots! They’re sweeter and mash more easily. Frozen bananas work too – just thaw them first.
Oat Choices: Rolled oats create the best texture. Quick oats will work but result in a softer bar. Avoid steel-cut oats.
Customization Ideas: Add cinnamon for warmth, chocolate chips for indulgence, or walnuts for crunch. For protein-packed bars, stir in 2 tablespoons of protein powder.
Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Perfect for meal prep!
FAQs
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Use certified gluten-free oats to make these bars completely gluten-free.
Can I use something instead of banana?
Applesauce works as a substitute, but you may need to reduce other liquids slightly.
Are these bars healthy?
Absolutely! They’re made with whole grains, natural sweeteners, and healthy fats – much better than store-bought breakfast bars.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Simply double all ingredients and use a 9×13 inch baking pan.
These banana oatmeal bars prove that delicious, healthy breakfast food with bananas doesn’t have to be complicated. Perfect for your morning routine, afternoon snacks, or as part of your 5 banana recipes collection – these bars are truly versatile breakfast bar ideas that everyone will love!
5-Minute Banana Oatmeal Bars: Quick Breakfast Prep with Only One Banana
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Mash your ripe banana in a medium bowl until smooth. The riper the banana, the sweeter your bars will be naturally!
- Add all remaining ingredients to the mashed banana. Stir until well combined. The mixture will be thick and slightly sticky – that’s perfect!
- Line a small baking dish (8×8 inch works well) with parchment paper. Transfer the oatmeal mixture and press it firmly into an even layer about 1/2 inch thick.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until the edges are golden brown. The bars will firm up as they cool, so don’t worry if they seem soft when they come out of the oven.
- Let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares. This resting time helps them set up properly.
