Ultimate Guide to Banana Oatmeal Bars: 5 Quick Breakfast Recipes & Snack Ideas

Looking for the perfect quick breakfast or healthy snack? Banana oatmeal bars are your new go-to solution! These versatile treats combine ripe bananas, nutritious oats, and simple ingredients to create satisfying bars that are perfect for busy mornings, school lunches, or afternoon pick-me-ups. Whether you have just one banana to use up or want to meal prep for the week, these recipes will transform your breakfast routine.

Classic Banana Oatmeal Bar Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe banana, mashed
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup almond flour
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Optional: chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 baking pan with parchment paper.

Step 2: In a medium bowl, mash the ripe banana until smooth.

Step 3: Add honey, vanilla extract, and cinnamon to the mashed banana. Mix well.

Step 4: Stir in the rolled oats, almond flour, and salt until fully combined.

Step 5: Fold in any optional add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts.

Step 6: Press the mixture firmly into the prepared baking pan.

Step 7: Bake for 18-22 minutes until edges are golden brown.

Step 8: Let cool completely before cutting into bars.

Variations: 5 Banana Recipes to Try

1. Banana Bread Oatmeal Bars

Add 1/4 cup chopped walnuts and 1/2 tsp nutmeg to the classic recipe for that familiar banana bread flavor.

2. Peanut Butter Banana Bars

Swirl in 2 tablespoons of peanut butter and reduce honey by 1 tablespoon.

3. Chocolate Chip Breakfast Cookie Bars

Mix in 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips for a sweet treat that kids love.

4. Tropical Banana Bars

Add 1/4 cup shredded coconut and 2 tablespoons chopped dried pineapple.

5. Cinnamon Apple Banana Bars

Fold in 1/2 cup finely chopped apple and extra cinnamon.

Expert Tips for Perfect Banana Oatmeal Bars

Banana Ripeness: Use very ripe bananas with brown spots – they’re sweeter and mash easier.

Storage: Store bars in an airtight container for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Customization: Feel free to substitute honey with maple syrup, or use gluten-free oats if needed.

Texture Tip: For softer bars, use quick oats. For chewier bars, use old-fashioned rolled oats.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these bars vegan? Yes! Simply use maple syrup instead of honey.

How long do they stay fresh? Up to 5 days at room temperature, or freeze for longer storage.

Can I use frozen bananas? Absolutely! Thaw them first and drain any excess liquid.

Are these gluten-free? Yes, when using certified gluten-free oats.

Can I double the recipe? Definitely! Use a 9×13 pan and increase baking time by 5-7 minutes.

These banana oatmeal bars are the perfect solution for busy households looking for nutritious, make-ahead breakfast options. With endless customization possibilities and simple ingredients, they’ll quickly become a family favorite!

Classic Banana Oatmeal Bar Recipe

These banana oatmeal bars combine ripe bananas, oats, and simple ingredients to create nutritious breakfast bars perfect for busy mornings. The recipe offers versatility with optional add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Calories: 150

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Ingredients

• 1 ripe banana, mashed
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup almond flour
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Optional: chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit

Method

 

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mash the ripe banana until smooth.
3. Add honey, vanilla extract, and cinnamon to the mashed banana. Mix well.
4. Stir in the rolled oats, almond flour, and salt until fully combined.
5. Fold in any optional add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts.
6. Press the mixture firmly into the prepared baking pan.
7. Bake for 18-22 minutes until edges are golden brown.
8. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.

Notes

Use very ripe bananas with brown spots – they’re sweeter and mash easier. Store bars in an airtight container for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.