Baked Banana Oatmeal Bars

Start your day with the wholesome goodness of these Baked Banana Oatmeal Bars! With a soft, chewy texture and naturally sweet banana flavor, they make an ideal grab-and-go breakfast or healthy snack. These bars are freezer-friendly, vegan-optional, and perfect for busy mornings or post-workout refueling.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These bars are like having a soft banana oatmeal cookie in bar form — hearty, not too sweet, and easy to make in one bowl. They’re packed with wholesome rolled oats, naturally sweetened with banana and maple syrup, and you can toss in your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips or chopped nuts for a personalized twist.

Ingredients

• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1 1/3 cup mashed banana (for banana-free, try these [Baked Oats])
• 6 tbsp water
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3 tbsp pure maple syrup, agave, or honey OR stevia equivalent
• 3 tbsp oil, nut butter, or additional water
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• Optional: handful chocolate chips, chopped nuts, etc.

Directions

1. Prep the Oven & Pan
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, or generously grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Ingredients
   In a large mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients: rolled oats, mashed banana, water, salt, sweetener, oil (or alternative), and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are evenly incorporated. If using any mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts, fold them in at this stage or sprinkle on top later.
3. Spread the Batter
   Pour the oatmeal mixture into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to smooth out the surface so it bakes evenly.
4. Bake
   Place the pan on the center rack of your preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes.
5. Let Sit in the Oven
   Without opening the oven door, turn off the heat and let the bars sit in the warm oven for an additional 5 minutes. This helps them firm up while retaining a soft, moist texture.
6. Cool & Slice
   Remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool for at least 10 minutes. Slice into bars or squares once cooled.

Pro Tips and Variations

• Banana-Free Version: Substitute the banana with mashed roasted sweet potato or try the linked banana-free baked oats.
• Add Protein: Mix in a tablespoon of your favorite nut butter, protein powder, or a spoon of Greek yogurt.
• Customize Flavors: Try almond extract instead of vanilla or swirl in fruit preserves.
• Crunch Factor: Top with granola, seeds, or shredded coconut before baking.

Serving Suggestions

• Breakfast: Pair with a cup of coffee or smoothie for a quick, energizing morning meal.
• Snack: Cut into smaller squares for an afternoon bite.
• Dessert: Warm and top with dairy-free cream cheese or nut butter drizzle.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store covered in the fridge for 3–4 days.
• Freezer: Place parchment between layers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.
• To Reheat: Microwave briefly or warm in an oven or skillet until soft and heated through.

FAQs

Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?
Rolled oats are recommended for the best chewy texture, but quick oats may work with slight textural changes.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Use a 9×13 pan and increase the bake time by a few minutes as needed.

Are these bars kid-friendly?
Absolutely! Kids love them with chocolate chips, and parents love the healthy ingredients.

Do I have to use maple syrup?
No, you can use any liquid sweetener like agave, honey (if not vegan), or stevia equivalent.

Conclusion

These Baked Banana Oatmeal Bars are an effortless, wholesome way to nourish your body while indulging in naturally sweet, comforting flavors. Batch bake, freeze, and enjoy warm or cold — they’re a must-have for any busy kitchen.

Print