Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1½ cups mashed bananas (approx. 3 bananas)
- ½ cup nut butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
Add-Ins
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make removal easier.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, nut butter, rolled oats, cinnamon, vanilla extract, maple syrup, chocolate chips, and salt. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Prepare Baking Pan: Transfer the mixture to the lined baking pan and use a spatula to flatten it into an even, compact layer. Optionally, sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top for added texture and flavor.
- Bake the Bars: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until the edges turn golden and the bars feel set when touched lightly.
- Cool and Slice: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before cutting into 16 squares for serving.
Notes
- You can substitute nut butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option.
- Ensure the bananas are ripe for natural sweetness and better binding.
- Storage: Keep the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- For a vegan version, ensure the chocolate chips used are dairy-free.
- Adding chopped nuts or dried fruit can enhance texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian