Soft, chewy, and naturally sweet
These Energizing Banana Oatmeal Bars are the perfect grab-and-go snack for anyone who wants something wholesome, delicious, and incredibly easy to make. They’re soft, chewy, lightly sweetened with ripe bananas, and packed with oats to keep you fueled throughout the day. Whether you need a quick breakfast, a pre-workout boost, or a healthier treat for your afternoon slump, these bars deliver long-lasting energy with simple, nourishing ingredients. They mix together in minutes and bake beautifully into portable squares—ideal for meal prep or busy families. With their warm banana flavor and hint of cinnamon, they feel like comfort food but support your healthy routine. 🍌✨
⏱️ Time Breakdown
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 9 bars
📝 Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 cups rolled oats
- ¼ cup honey or maple syrup
- ¼ cup almond butter (or peanut butter)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- Optional mix-ins:
- ¼ cup chocolate chips
- ¼ cup chopped nuts
- 2 tbsp chia seeds or flaxseed
✨ Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free.
- Mixing bowl
- Fork (for mashing banana)
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Spatula
- 8×8 baking dish
- Parchment paper
- Knife for slicing
👣 Step-by-Step Beginner-Friendly Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 dish with parchment paper.
- Mash bananas in a large bowl until smooth. 🍌
- Add egg, almond butter, honey, and vanilla; whisk until fully combined.
- Stir in oats, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt.
- Fold in any optional add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts.
- Spread mixture evenly into the baking dish using a spatula.
- Bake 22–25 minutes, or until the top is golden and edges are slightly firm.
- Cool completely before slicing into bars. ✨
💡 Pro Tips
- For extra protein, add 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (add 2–3 tbsp milk if batter gets thick).
- Bars store 4–5 days in the fridge, or freeze up to 2 months.
- For chewier bars, underbake by 2 minutes.
- Add blueberries or diced apples for a fruity twist.