Oatmeal Banana Bars

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Servings: 4 Difficulty: Intermediate
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Chewy, peanut-buttery bars with natural banana sweetness
Oatmeal Banana Bars recipe image
Oatmeal Banana Bars recipe image
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Oatmeal Banana Bars

Author: chefs-mate Cooking Method: Cuisine: Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 4 Calories: 1704.3

Description

These Oatmeal Banana Bars are the ultimate comfort food snack, combining the earthy texture of rolled oats with the creamy richness of peanut butter and ripe bananas. The dark brown sugar adds a deep, molasses-like depth that pairs perfectly with the vanilla and salt. Unlike flaky cookies, these bars have a dense, chewy consistency that holds up well to dipping in milk or coffee. They are incredibly simple to make, requiring no mixer&# 226;ÂÂjust a bowl and a spoon. Perfect for packing in lunchboxes, serving at casual gatherings, or enjoying as a wholesome breakfast on-the-go, they offer a satisfying balance of sweetness and nuttiness. Using ripe bananas ensures maximum flavor and natural sweetness, making them a favorite for both kids and adults.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the margarine and packed dark brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
  3. Add the beaten egg, salt, mashed bananas, vanilla extract, and creamy peanut butter to the bowl.
  4. Beat the mixture vigorously until it is very well combined and smooth.
  5. Stir in the rolled oats and blend thoroughly until every oat is coated with the wet mixture.
  6. Grease a 13x9-inch baking pan with margarine or cooking spray.
  7. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  9. Allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before cutting.
  10. Cut into 1x2-inch bars and serve.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

Amount Per Serving
Calories 1704.3kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 65.5g101%
Saturated Fat 16.7g84%
Cholesterol 93.2mg32%
Sodium 3095.0mg129%
Total Carbohydrate 235.5g79%
Dietary Fiber 28.5g114%
Sugars 67.8g
Protein 52.0g104%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Select bananas that have dark brown spots on the peel; these are ripest and sweetest, providing the best flavor and texture for the bars.

For a vegan version, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and use a plant-based margarine.

These bars store well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage.

If you prefer a chewier texture, ensure you do not overbake. Check for doneness at the 50-minute mark.

Feel free to add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for extra variety.

Keywords: baking, banana, bars, breakfast, chewy, oatmeal, oats, peanut butter, snack, vegetarian, vanilla, brown sugar, margarine, easy, homemade, lunchbox, comfort food, fruit, grain
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