Pin it Last winter I found myself with three spotted bananas on the counter and zero ambition for banana bread. These oatmeal bars happened almost by accident, and now they are my go-to when I need something wholesome that feels like a treat.
My sister popped over one morning while a batch was cooling. She ate two bars standing at the counter, then asked for the recipe before even putting on her coat. That is when I knew these were special.
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats: Use old-fashioned oats here rather than quick oats for better texture and structure
- 1/2 tsp salt: Just enough to make the banana sweetness pop without tasting salty
- 1 1/3 cups mashed ripe banana: About three medium bananas with plenty of brown spots for natural sweetness
- 6 tbsp water: Helps create the right consistency without needing excess oil or sweetener
- 3 tbsp pure maple syrup: Agave or honey work too, or stevia if you are watching sugar
- 3 tbsp oil or nut butter: Coconut oil adds subtle flavor while nut butter brings extra protein
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract: Do not skip this, it ties all the flavors together beautifully
- 1/3 cup mix-ins: Chocolate chips make them feel decadent but nuts and dried fruit are lovely too
Instructions
- Preheat and prep your pan:
- Heat your oven to 350°F and line an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper for easy removal
- Combine the dry ingredients:
- Whisk together the rolled oats and salt in a large mixing bowl to distribute everything evenly
- Mix in the wet ingredients:
- Add the mashed banana, water, sweetener, oil or nut butter, and vanilla then stir until fully incorporated
- Add your mix-ins:
- Gently fold in chocolate chips, nuts, dried fruit, or seeds if you are using them
- Spread and bake:
- Pour the mixture into your prepared pan, smooth the top, and bake for 20 minutes
- Let them set:
- Turn off the oven and leave the bars inside for 5 more minutes without opening the door
- Cool completely:
- Let the bars cool fully before slicing into 6 to 9 pieces for the cleanest cuts
Pin it These have become my Sunday baking ritual. The whole house smells like bananas and vanilla, and knowing I have breakfast sorted for the week feels like a small victory.
Customization Ideas
I have tried swapping the banana for applesauce in spring and pumpkin puree in fall. Each variation brings its own personality while keeping that same comforting texture.
Make Them Yours
Adding a scoop of protein powder turns these into post-workout fuel. Just reduce the oats slightly to keep the consistency right.
Serving Suggestions
Warm with a smear of almond butter is my absolute favorite way to eat them, but they are just as good cold from the fridge when you are rushing out the door.
- Try crumbling them over yogurt for an extra hearty breakfast bowl
- They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee in the afternoon
- Pack them for hiking or road trips for travel-friendly energy
Pin it There is something deeply satisfying about a recipe that comes together in minutes but tastes like you put in real effort. These bars have saved so many mornings.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make these oatmeal bars without banana?
Yes, you can substitute the mashed banana with unsweetened applesauce or pumpkin purée in equal amounts. This will slightly alter the flavor while maintaining the soft texture and binding properties needed for the bars.
- → How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are ready after 20 minutes at 350°F when the edges are lightly golden. The unique technique of letting them rest in the turned-off oven for 5 additional minutes helps them set completely without overbaking.
- → What makes these bars freezer-friendly?
These bars freeze exceptionally well due to their oat-based structure. Wrap individual portions in parchment paper and store in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or warm briefly in the microwave.
- → Can I add protein powder to make them more filling?
Absolutely. Add one scoop of your favorite protein powder and reduce the rolled oats by about 2-3 tablespoons to maintain the proper consistency. This boosts the protein content to approximately 5-6 grams per bar.
- → What's the best way to store leftovers?
Keep sliced bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze individually wrapped portions. The bars actually develop more flavor after sitting overnight as the ingredients meld together.
- → Are these bars gluten-free?
Yes, when using certified gluten-free rolled oats, these bars are completely gluten-free. Always check that your oats are specifically labeled gluten-free, as regular oats may be processed in facilities with wheat.