Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 350°F and place a rack in the center position.
• Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal.
• Place 1 cup mashed banana in a large mixing bowl.
• Add 2 tablespoons honey, 3 tablespoons canola oil, 5 tablespoons water, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to the bowl and stir until the wet ingredients are combined.
• Add 2 cups rolled oats, a pinch of cinnamon, and a pinch of salt to the bowl. Stir until the oats are evenly moistened and the mixture is uniform.
• Transfer the mixture to the prepared 9×9-inch pan and use a spatula to spread and press it into an even layer.
• Sprinkle a handful of chocolate chips evenly over the top and gently press them into the surface.
• Bake for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, turn off the oven and leave the pan inside with the oven door closed for an additional 5 minutes.
• Remove the pan from the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool until firm and cool to the touch.
• Use the parchment overhang to lift the baked oatmeal from the pan, place on a cutting board, and slice into bars.