Here’s a delicious recipe for Chocolate Banana Oat Bars—a healthier snack or dessert that’s easy to make and packed with natural sweetness from bananas, the richness of chocolate, and the hearty goodness of oats. These bars are perfect for breakfast on the go, post-workout fuel, or a midday energy boost!
Chocolate Banana Oat Bars
Ingredients
- 2 large ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 ½ cups rolled oats
- ¼ cup honey or maple syrup (optional for extra sweetness)
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup dark chocolate chips (plus extra for topping, optional)
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil or melted butter
- 2 tablespoons milk (dairy or non-dairy)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it lightly.
Step 2: Mash the Bananas
- In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
- Add the honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, melted coconut oil or butter, and milk to the mashed bananas. Mix well until combined.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In another bowl, whisk together the oats, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet banana mixture. Stir until well combined.
- Fold in the dark chocolate chips.
Step 6: Spread the Mixture
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.
- (Optional) Sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top for a richer finish.
Step 7: Bake
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the edges are firm and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool and Cut
- Let the bars cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Cut into squares or bars and serve.
Tips for Success
- Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter your bars will be. Brown spots on the peel indicate perfect ripeness for this recipe.
- Customize Sweetness: Adjust the honey or maple syrup to taste depending on the sweetness of your bananas and chocolate chips.
- Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. They also freeze well for up to 3 months.
Variations
- Nutty Twist: Add ¼ cup chopped walnuts, almonds, or pecans for extra crunch and protein.
- Peanut Butter Version: Swirl 2 tablespoons of peanut butter into the batter before baking for a peanut butter-chocolate combo.
- Coconut Lovers: Mix in ¼ cup shredded coconut for a tropical touch.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use certified gluten-free oats for a gluten-free treat.
- Vegan Version: Replace honey with maple syrup and use dairy-free chocolate chips.
FAQs
Q: Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
A: Yes, but the texture will be slightly different. Rolled oats provide a chewier texture, while quick oats create a softer bar.
Q: Can I make this recipe without chocolate?
A: Absolutely. You can omit the chocolate chips and cocoa powder for plain banana oat bars or replace the chocolate with dried fruits like raisins or cranberries.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes! Use a 9×13-inch pan and adjust the baking time to 25–30 minutes.
These Chocolate Banana Oat Bars are a perfect balance of indulgence and nutrition, combining the rich flavors of chocolate and banana with the heartiness of oats. Whether you’re packing a lunchbox, grabbing a quick breakfast, or satisfying a sweet craving, these bars are sure to please. Try them today and watch them disappear in no time!
