Ultimate Banana Oatmeal Bars: Quick Breakfast Prep for Busy Mornings
Ultimate Banana Oatmeal Bars: Your New Favorite Quick Breakfast Prep
Looking for the perfect grab-and-go breakfast that’s both nutritious and delicious? These banana oatmeal bars are your answer! Whether you’re rushing out the door or need a quick snack between meals, these bars combine the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with hearty oats for sustained energy. Best of all, they come together in minutes with minimal prep time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 large ripe bananas (mashed)
- 2 cups old-fashioned oats
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips or dried fruit (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Mash your ripe bananas in a medium bowl until smooth.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the oats, cinnamon, and salt. If you’re adding nuts or chocolate chips, mix them in at this stage.
Step 3: Combine Everything
Add the mashed bananas, honey/maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until everything is well combined and the oats are fully coated.
Step 4: Press Into Pan
Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking pan. Use the back of a spoon or your hands to press it firmly into an even layer.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Let cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars.
Expert Tips for Perfect Banana Oatmeal Bars
Banana Ripeness Matters: The riper your bananas, the sweeter your bars will be naturally. Look for bananas with brown spots on the peel.
Customize Your Bars: Add 1/4 cup of your favorite mix-ins – chocolate chips, dried cranberries, coconut flakes, or different nuts.
Make Them Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free oats if needed. The recipe is naturally dairy-free!
Storage Tips: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these without baking? Yes! Mix all ingredients, press into pan, and refrigerate for 2 hours instead of baking.
What if I only have one banana? Reduce oats to 1 cup and other ingredients proportionally for single-serving bars.
Are these bars healthy? Absolutely! They’re packed with fiber from oats and natural sugars from bananas – much healthier than store-bought bars.
These banana oatmeal bars are the perfect solution for busy mornings or quick snack cravings. Whip up a batch today and enjoy wholesome, satisfying food that loves you back!
Ultimate Banana Oatmeal Bars: Your New Favorite Quick Breakfast Prep
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Mash your ripe bananas in a medium bowl until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, combine the oats, cinnamon, and salt. If you’re adding nuts or chocolate chips, mix them in at this stage.
- Add the mashed bananas, honey/maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until everything is well combined and the oats are fully coated.
- Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking pan. Use the back of a spoon or your hands to press it firmly into an even layer.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Let cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars.
