Healthy Banana Oatmeal Bars

Name: Healthy Banana Oatmeal Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 cup rolled oats; 1/2 cup almond milk (or any milk of choice); 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup peanut butter or almond butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

These Healthy Banana Oatmeal Bars are a delicious and nutritious snack that you can enjoy any time of the day.

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2025-12-09T22:12:44.147Z

These oatmeal bars are the perfect balance of healthy and tasty. Made with ripe bananas and oats, they provide a great source of energy and are easy to whip up for breakfast or a snack.

        Why You'll Love These Bars
        Naturally sweetened with ripe bananas
Packed with fiber and nutrients from oats
Perfect for meal prep and on-the-go snacking

      

The Benefits of Oats

Oats are a powerhouse of nutrition, making them an excellent choice for any healthy recipe. They are rich in dietary fiber, particularly beta-glucan, which has been shown to help lower cholesterol levels and promote heart health. Incorporating oats into your diet can also aid in digestion and keep you feeling full for longer, making them a fantastic option for weight management.

Additionally, oats are versatile and can be used in a variety of recipes, from breakfast to snacks. They are gluten-free (when certified) and packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, and B vitamins. Eating oats regularly can support overall health and provide sustained energy throughout the day.

Bananas: Nature's Candy

Ripe bananas not only add natural sweetness to your Healthy Banana Oatmeal Bars but also come with numerous health benefits. They are rich in potassium, which is vital for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels and supporting muscle function. Bananas also provide vitamin C, vitamin B6, and dietary fiber, making them a well-rounded fruit for overall health.

One of the best things about using bananas in baking is their ability to replace refined sugars. The natural sugars in bananas help satisfy your sweet tooth while providing important nutrients. This makes them an ideal ingredient for health-conscious recipes, ensuring you enjoy a treat without the guilt.

Meal Prep Made Easy

These Healthy Banana Oatmeal Bars are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to have nutritious snacks ready to go throughout the week. Simply whip up a batch during the weekend, and you'll have a convenient option for breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up. They store well in an airtight container, making them an excellent choice for busy individuals.

By including these bars in your meal prep routine, you can avoid the temptation of unhealthy snacks. They are easily portable, so you can pack them in your bag for work, school, or a day out. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you'll have a wholesome snack at your fingertips whenever hunger strikes.

Ingredients

Bars

2 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup almond milk (or any milk of choice)
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup peanut butter or almond butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips (optional)

Mix all the ingredients thoroughly before pouring into the baking dish.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a bowl, combine the mashed bananas, almond milk, honey, peanut butter, and vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the rolled oats, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Everything

Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until well combined. If using, fold in the nuts or chocolate chips.

Bake

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden.

Cool and Cut

Let the bars cool in the pan for 10 minutes before lifting them out and cutting into squares.

Enjoy your healthy banana oatmeal bars as a nutritious snack or breakfast option!

Nutritional Information

Each bar is not only delicious but also a nutritious addition to your diet. Depending on the specific ingredients used, you can expect each bar to contain around 100-150 calories. They are a rich source of complex carbohydrates, with a good balance of protein and healthy fats, especially if you include nuts or nut butter.

These bars also provide a decent amount of fiber, which is essential for digestive health. The fiber content can help regulate blood sugar levels, making these bars a suitable option for those watching their sugar intake. Overall, they are a wholesome snack that can fit into various dietary needs.

Customization Ideas

One of the great things about these Healthy Banana Oatmeal Bars is their versatility. Feel free to customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences! You can add dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for an extra burst of flavor, or experiment with different nut butters for a unique twist.

For a fun and indulgent variation, consider adding dark chocolate chips or a sprinkle of shredded coconut. You can also adjust the spices, adding a pinch of nutmeg or even a bit of cocoa powder for a chocolatey version. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make these bars truly your own.

Serving Suggestions

These Healthy Banana Oatmeal Bars can be enjoyed in various ways. For breakfast, pair them with a dollop of Greek yogurt and fresh fruit for a well-rounded meal. You can also crumble the bars over a smoothie bowl for added texture and flavor.

They make for a fantastic snack on their own, but you can elevate the experience by serving them with a drizzle of nut butter or a side of fresh fruit. Whether you enjoy them as a quick breakfast or a mid-afternoon treat, these bars are sure to satisfy your cravings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, quick oats can be used, but the texture may be slightly different.

→ How do I store these bars?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these bars?

Absolutely! They freeze well. Just wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag.

→ What can I substitute for peanut butter?

You can use almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or any nut butter of your choice.