Baked Oatmeal Breakfast Bars

Start your morning right with these Baked Oatmeal Breakfast Bars that combine wholesome ingredients, a touch of sweetness, and a hint of chocolate. Perfect for busy mornings or a quick, nourishing snack, these bars are simple to make and packed with flavor. The natural sweetness of mashed bananas and honey blends beautifully with cinnamon and vanilla, while rolled oats provide hearty texture and fiber. Plus, a handful of chocolate chips adds just enough indulgence to make these bars a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, these bars are a versatile addition to your breakfast repertoire.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

• Easy to make: Minimal ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe perfect for any skill level.
• Nutritious: Rolled oats and bananas deliver fiber, vitamins, and sustained energy.
• Customizable: Add nuts, dried fruits, or swap chocolate chips for a different twist.
• Grab-and-go convenience: Great for busy mornings or a quick snack anytime.
• Moist and chewy texture: The combination of banana and canola oil keeps the bars soft yet firm.

What’s in the Bowl

• 1 cup mashed banana: Acts as a natural sweetener and binder, adding moisture and flavor.
• 2 cups rolled oats: The hearty base for the bars, providing fiber and texture.
• 5 tablespoons water: Helps hydrate the oats and create the perfect consistency.
• Pinch of cinnamon: Adds a warm, sweet-spicy note.
• Pinch of salt: Enhances all the flavors.
• 2 tablespoons honey: A natural sweetener that complements the banana.
• 3 tablespoons canola oil: Keeps the bars moist without overpowering flavor.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth and aroma.
• Handful of chocolate chips: For a chocolatey touch that melts into every bite.

Kitchen Gear Checklist

• Mixing bowl: To combine all your ingredients effortlessly.
• Fork or potato masher: For mashing the banana smoothly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To get your ingredient quantities just right.
• Spatula or spoon: For mixing the batter thoroughly.
• Baking pan (8×8 inch recommended): Perfect size for thick, chewy bars.
• Parchment paper (optional): Makes removing the bars from the pan easier.
• Oven: Preheated to ensure even baking.

Method: Baked Oatmeal Breakfast Bars

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with canola oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mash the Banana

In your mixing bowl, use a fork or potato masher to mash the banana until smooth, with just a few small chunks remaining for texture.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add the canola oil, honey, vanilla extract, and water to the mashed banana. Stir well until all the wet ingredients are fully incorporated.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In the same bowl, add the rolled oats, cinnamon, and salt. Stir everything until the oats are evenly coated and the mixture starts to thicken.

Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the handful of chocolate chips, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.

Step 6: Transfer to Baking Pan

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it out evenly with a spatula or the back of a spoon. Press down gently to compact the mixture.

Step 7: Bake

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Step 8: Cool and Slice

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, lift the bars out using the parchment paper edges if used, and slice into squares or rectangles.

Seasonal Adaptations

• Fall: Add chopped pecans and a sprinkle of nutmeg for cozy autumn vibes.
• Winter: Stir in dried cranberries or chopped dates for a festive touch.
• Spring: Mix in fresh blueberries or raspberries for a burst of freshness.
• Summer: Use chopped mango or pineapple and a dash of coconut flakes for a tropical twist.

Chef’s Notes

• For chewier bars, slightly reduce baking time and ensure they cool before slicing.
• If you prefer nut-free bars, simply omit any nuts or seeds; the recipe works wonderfully as is.
• Canola oil is a neutral choice here, but feel free to swap with mild olive oil or melted coconut oil for different flavor profiles.
• Use old-fashioned rolled oats for the best texture; quick oats can make the bars too soft.
• Feel free to double the recipe and bake in a larger pan for thinner bars or more servings.

Prep Ahead & Store

Make these bars ahead of time and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to a week or freeze individually wrapped bars for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw overnight or warm briefly in the microwave.

Baked Oatmeal Breakfast Bars Q&A

Can I substitute the honey with another sweetener?

Absolutely! Maple syrup, agave nectar, or date syrup are excellent alternatives that will keep the bars naturally sweet and moist.

Are rolled oats necessary, or can I use quick oats?

Rolled oats provide a better texture with a chewier bite. Quick oats will work but may result in softer, less structured bars.

Can I add nuts or seeds to this recipe?

Yes! Chopped walnuts, almonds, chia seeds, or flaxseeds are wonderful additions that boost texture and nutrition.

How do I make these bars nut-free and allergy-friendly?

This recipe is naturally nut-free. Just avoid adding any nuts or nut-based ingredients and ensure your chocolate chips are allergen-friendly if needed.

Healthy-ish Favorites

• Banana Oatmeal Muffins – A moist and wholesome muffin bursting with banana goodness.
• Peanut Butter Oat Bars – Chewy bars with peanut butter and oats for a protein-packed snack.
• 5-Ingredient Vegan Oatmeal Cookies – Simple, naturally sweetened oatmeal cookies.
• Overnight Oats – Quick and customizable oats that you prep the night before.

Serve & Enjoy

These Baked Oatmeal Breakfast Bars are perfect served warm or at room temperature. Pair them with a cup of your favorite tea or coffee for a balanced breakfast. They also make a great on-the-go snack for kids and adults alike. Feel free to drizzle with a little extra honey or spread a thin layer of nut butter on top for extra indulgence. Whatever your preference, these bars offer a delicious, wholesome start to your day or a satisfying snack anytime.

With their simple ingredients and easy preparation, these baked oatmeal breakfast bars are sure to become a staple in your kitchen. They offer the perfect balance of nutrition, flavor, and convenience — a winning combination for any breakfast lover.

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