Description
These Irresistible Banana Oatmeal Bars are a wholesome and delicious snack, combining ripe bananas, rolled oats, and a touch of sweetness from brown and granulated sugars. Perfectly baked to a chewy texture with optional walnuts and chocolate chips for added crunch and flavor, these bars make a great breakfast treat or afternoon snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups old fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup all purpose flour
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Additions
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the bars.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, all purpose flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir these together to evenly distribute all the leavening agents and spices.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter, mashed ripe bananas, egg, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well-blended, which will help bind the bars together.
- Make the Batter: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can toughen the bars.
- Add Optional Mix-ins: Fold in the chopped walnuts and chocolate chips if you wish, gently incorporating them through the batter for added texture and flavor.
- Prepare for Baking: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula to create an even layer.
- Bake the Bars: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean, indicating the bars are fully cooked.
- Cool and Slice: Allow the banana oatmeal bars to cool completely in the pan to set properly before slicing into 9 squares for serving.
Notes
- For a healthier alternative, substitute half of the all purpose flour with whole wheat flour to add more fiber and nutrients.
- You can replace the butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free option or use honey instead of granulated sugar for natural sweetness.
