Go Back

Banana Oat Bars

These banana oat bars are a wholesome, naturally sweet treat made with ripe bananas, rolled oats, and pantry staples. Baked until golden and chewy, they boast a moist interior with a slightly crispy edge, perfect for a quick snack or breakfast. Their soft texture and caramelized flavor make them almost dessert-like without added sugar.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 9
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Homemade
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 pieces ripe bananas preferably very soft and jammy
  • 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup adjust for sweetness
  • 1/4 cup melted butter or coconut oil for richness and moisture
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract enhances flavor
  • 1 1/2 cups rolled oats old-fashioned preferred
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips optional for added texture
  • a pinch salt to boost flavor

Equipment

  • Baking pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Spatula
  • Parchment paper
  • Oven
  • Toothpick

Method
 

  1. Line your baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and set aside.
  2. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) so it’s ready when you need to bake.
  3. Peel the bananas and mash them thoroughly in a large mixing bowl until mostly smooth with some small lumps remaining for texture.
  4. Add the honey or maple syrup, melted butter or coconut oil, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Stir until the mixture is glossy and well combined.
  5. Pour in the rolled oats, a pinch of salt, and fold everything together gently with a spatula until the oats are evenly coated and the mixture is cohesive but not overmixed.
  6. If using, fold in chopped nuts or chocolate chips to add crunch and flavor.
  7. Transfer the batter into your prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly with a spatula, pressing gently to level the surface.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the edges turn a lovely golden brown and the top feels set when gently pressed.
  9. Insert a toothpick into the center of the bars; if it comes out clean, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes in the pan.
  10. Once cooled slightly, transfer the bars to a wire rack or cutting board and slice into squares. Allow to cool completely for cleaner cuts if desired.
  11. Enjoy these moist, chewy bars for a wholesome snack or breakfast—store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for longer keeping.

Notes

For extra flavor, toast the oats lightly before mixing. Use very ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture. Feel free to customize with your favorite add-ins like dried fruit or seeds.