Description
Picture this: a warm kitchen filled with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked chocolate chip oatmeal bars, promising a delightful treat that’s both delicious and nutritious. These chewy, wholesome bars are perfect for busy mornings, afternoon snacks, or a quick energy boost. Packed with fiber-rich oats, natural sweetness from bananas, and melty chocolate chips, they strike the perfect balance between indulgence and health.
With just 45 minutes from start to finish, you’ll create 24 mouthwatering bars that are naturally sweetened, easy to customize, and perfect for meal prep. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious snack or a satisfying dessert, these bars fit seamlessly into your healthy lifestyle.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup rolled oats (old-fashioned or quick oats)
- ½ cup almond butter
- ¼ cup maple syrup (or honey)
- ½ cup chocolate chips (dairy-free if preferred)
Optional Add-ins:
- ½ teaspoon baking soda (for a lighter texture)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon (for warmth and depth)
- ¼ cup chopped nuts, seeds, or shredded coconut (for extra crunch)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- Lightly grease the parchment paper with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas until smooth.
- Add almond butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, mix rolled oats, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using).
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Fold in the chocolate chips and any additional mix-ins.
Step 3: Bake the Bars
- Transfer the batter to the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake for 25-28 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the bars cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then lift them out using the parchment paper and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Slice & Enjoy
- Once cooled, cut into 24 bars and enjoy!
Notes
- Gluten-Free Option: Use certified gluten-free rolled oats.
- Vegan-Friendly: Use dairy-free chocolate chips and ensure maple syrup replaces honey.
- Storage Tips:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-5 days.
- Refrigerate for up to 1 week.
- Freeze individually wrapped bars for up to 3 months.
- Reheating Tip: Microwave for 10-15 seconds to enjoy warm, gooey chocolate chips.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-28 minutes
- Category: Snacks, Desserts, Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Per Serving - 1 Bar
- Calories: 182
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 153mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: oatmeal bars, chocolate chip bars, healthy snacks, chewy bars, meal prep snacks