Banana Oatmeal Bars: Your New Favorite Quick Breakfast Prep

Delicious banana oatmeal bars with oatmeal and banana slices on a wooden board

Looking for the perfect quick breakfast prep that doubles as a healthy snack? These banana oatmeal bars are your answer! Using just one ripe banana, you can create delicious breakfast cookie bars that are perfect for busy mornings, on-the-go snacks, or meal prepping for the week. They’re naturally sweetened, packed with fiber, and incredibly easy to make.

What makes these banana bread oatmeal bars so special is their versatility. They work well for breakfast, as a mid-day snack, or even as a healthier dessert option. Plus, they’re freezer-friendly, making them ideal for advance meal prep. Whether you’re looking for recipes using one banana or exploring breakfast bar ideas food, this recipe has you covered.

Ingredients

1 ripe banana (medium to large)
1 cup rolled oats (old-fashioned oats)
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Pinch of salt
Optional: 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Mash the ripe banana in a medium bowl until smooth.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

Add the honey (or maple syrup), applesauce, and vanilla extract to the mashed banana. Stir until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and cohesive.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the rolled oats, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. If you’re adding walnuts or chocolate chips, mix them in at this stage.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Don’t overmix – the batter should be thick but cohesive.

Banana oatmeal bar batter being spread in baking pan

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Spread the mixture evenly into your prepared baking pan. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set. The bars should be firm to the touch.

Step 6: Cool and Cut

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. This is crucial for clean cuts and proper texture.

Finished banana oatmeal bars cut into perfect squares

Expert Tips for Perfect Banana Oatmeal Bars

Banana Selection: Use very ripe bananas with brown spots for maximum natural sweetness and easier mashing.

Oat Texture: For a more uniform texture, pulse the oats in a food processor briefly before mixing.

Customization: Feel free to add raisins, dried cranberries, or different nuts based on your preference.

Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these gluten-free? Yes! Use certified gluten-free oats to make these bars gluten-free.

Can I substitute the applesauce? You can use mashed banana instead, but the texture might be denser.

How long do these bars stay fresh? They’re best within 3 days at room temperature or can be frozen for longer storage.

Can I double the recipe? Absolutely! Double all ingredients and use a 9×13 inch baking pan.

These banana oatmeal bars are truly one of the best oatmeal recipes snacks you can make for quick breakfast prep. They’re perfect for anyone looking for food with bananas that’s both delicious and convenient. Enjoy your homemade breakfast cookie bars!