Ingredients
Scale
- 2 large ripe bananas (the riper, the better for sweetness and moisture)
- 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour (can substitute with all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour blend)
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (for natural sweetness; adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce (adds moisture and reduces need for oil)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (a warm spice that makes these bars feel like a hug)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, for added texture and flavor)
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips or dried cranberries (optional, for a bit of fun and variety)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy lifting later.
- In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until mostly smooth. A few small lumps are fine—they add texture and sweetness.
- Add the honey (or maple syrup), unsweetened applesauce, and vanilla extract to the bananas. Stir until well combined. This mixture is like the glue that brings the bars together.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This dry mix balances the sweetness and adds that hearty oat chew.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet banana mixture. Stir gently until just combined—overmixing can make the bars tough, so stop as soon as the flour disappears.
- If you’re adding nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit, fold them in now. I love adding a handful of walnuts for crunch and a little chocolate for a treat, but this is your chance to make it your own.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. The batter will be thick but spreadable.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- Remove the bars from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Cooling is key for clean slicing and that perfect chewy texture.
- Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars from the pan and place them on a cutting board. Cut into 12 bars or squares and enjoy! These are perfect for grabbing on the go or sitting down with a warm cup of tea.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International