Name: Blueberry Banana Oat Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-481973H8M25S
Total time: PT-481973H8M25S
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats – Perfect for a chewy texture and full of fiber.; 2 ripe bananas, mashed – Adds natural sweetness and moisture.; ½ cup fresh or frozen blueberries – For a burst of flavor and antioxidants.; ¼ cup almond butter or peanut butter – For creaminess and a dose of healthy fats.; ⅓ cup honey or maple syrup – Acts as a natural sweetener.; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances flavor.; 1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps the bars rise slightly.; 1 teaspoon cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice.; ¼ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness.

Blueberry Banana Oat Bars offer a delightful combination of fruity flavors and hearty oats, making them a perfect snack for any time of the day. These bars are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, thanks to their wholesome ingredients. Ideal for breakfast, a mid-day snack, or even a sweet treat after dinner, these oat bars provide a healthy alternative to processed snacks and are super easy to make.

Ingredients:

2 cups rolled oats – Perfect for a chewy texture and full of fiber.
2 ripe bananas, mashed – Adds natural sweetness and moisture.
½ cup fresh or frozen blueberries – For a burst of flavor and antioxidants.
¼ cup almond butter or peanut butter – For creaminess and a dose of healthy fats.
⅓ cup honey or maple syrup – Acts as a natural sweetener.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances flavor.
1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps the bars rise slightly.
1 teaspoon cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice.
¼ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness.

Preparation:

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.

Step 2:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas with almond or peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.

Step 3:

Add the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt to the banana mixture, stirring until everything is evenly mixed.

Step 4:

Gently fold in the blueberries to distribute them throughout the mixture without crushing them.

Step 5:

Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Step 6:

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.

Step 7:

Allow the bars to cool in the dish before cutting into squares. This cooling time helps them set properly and makes them easier to cut.

Variation:

For a nut-free version, substitute sunflower seed butter for the almond or peanut butter, and ensure all other ingredients are nut-free.

Cooking Note:

If using frozen blueberries, do not thaw them before adding to the mixture to prevent the batter from becoming too watery.

Serving Suggestions:

These oat bars can be served as a quick breakfast, a portable snack for school or work, or paired with a scoop of ice cream for a delightful dessert.

Tips:

Ensure the bananas are very ripe for the best natural sweetness and texture.
You can add a handful of chopped nuts or chocolate chips for an extra flavor boost.

Prep Time:

10 minutes

Cook Time:

25-30 minutes

Total Time:

35-40 minutes

Nutritional Information:

Calories: Approximately 150 per bar
Protein: 3 grams
Sodium: 75 mg

FAQs:

Can I freeze these oat bars? Yes, they freeze well. Wrap them individually and freeze for up to 3 months.
Can I use other fruits? Absolutely! Feel free to substitute blueberries with other berries or diced apples for a different taste.

Conclusion

Blueberry Banana Oat Bars are a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy, filling snack that satisfies your sweet tooth without any guilt. They are quick to prepare, easy to customize with your favorite ingredients, and perfect for on-the-go snacking. Give them a try and enjoy the wholesome goodness of oats and fruit in every bite!