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Whip Up a Nutritious Snack in 30 Minutes!
Whip up 3-Ingredient Healthy Banana Oatmeal Bars with no added sugar! Gluten-free, dairy-free, and perfect for breakfast or snacks. Ready in 30 minutes!
Craving a guilt-free breakfast or snack that’s simple, wholesome, and kid-friendly? These 3-Ingredient Healthy Banana Oatmeal Bars are your answer! Soft, chewy, and naturally sweetened with ripe bananas, they’re gluten-free, dairy-free, and require no added sugar, butter, or oil. Perfect for busy mornings or on-the-go snacks, this recipe is a game-changer for health-conscious foodies.
Why You’ll Love These Banana Oatmeal Bars
- 3 ingredients: Pantry staples only!
- No added sugar: Sweetened naturally with bananas.
- Customizable: Add nuts, chocolate chips, or spices.
- Meal-prep friendly: Stores well in the fridge or freezer.
- Dietary-friendly: Gluten-free, dairy-free, and easily vegan-adapted (see tips!).
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Rolled oats (old-fashioned oats) – Provides structure and fiber. Avoid quick oats—they won’t absorb moisture as well.
- Overripe bananas – The sweeter, the better! They bind the bars and add natural sweetness.
- Eggs – Acts as a binder and adds moisture. (See FAQs for vegan swaps!)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep: Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Mash Bananas: Finely mash 1 cup (232g) of overripe bananas until smooth (use a whisk or potato masher).
- Mix Wet Ingredients: Whisk bananas with 2 large eggs until no streaks remain.
- Add Oats: Stir in 2 cups (174g) rolled oats until fully combined. Add mix-ins here (e.g., chocolate chips, cinnamon, or nuts).
- Bake: Spread batter into the pan and bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and firm to touch.
- Cool & Slice: Let cool completely before cutting into 12 bars.
Pro Tips for Success
- Boost sweetness: Add 1–3 tbsp maple syrup or mix in dried fruit/dark chocolate chips.
- Gluten-free? Use certified gluten-free oats.
- Vegan option: Replace eggs with 2 flax eggs (2 tbsp ground flaxseed + 5 tbsp water, soaked for 5 minutes).
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for 2 months.
Customization Ideas
- Chocolate chip: Add ¼ cup dark chocolate chips.
- Nutty crunch: Stir in 2 tbsp chopped walnuts or almonds.
- Spiced: Mix in 1 tsp cinnamon or nutmeg.
- Berry burst: Fold in ½ cup fresh blueberries or raspberries.
FAQ: Your Questions Answered
Q: Can I use quick oats?
A: Rolled oats work best for texture. Quick oats may turn mushy.
Q: How ripe should bananas be?
A: Very ripe (lots of brown spots!) for maximum sweetness.
Q: Can I make these egg-free?
A: Yes! Use flax eggs (see Pro Tips).
Q: Are these bars toddler-friendly?
A: Absolutely! Soft texture and natural sweetness make them perfect for little ones.
Nutritional Benefits (Per Bar)
- Calories: 79kcal
- Carbs: 13g | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g (natural!)
- Protein: 3g | Fat: 2g
Nutrition info estimated. For precise needs, consult a nutritionist.
More Easy Breakfast Recipes
- 13 Low-Calorie Breakfasts That Will Keep You Full Until Lunch
- Healthy Baked Oatmeal: 5 Ingredients, 13g Protein, No Added Sugar
Pin This for Later! 📌
Recipe adapted from Kirbie’s Cravings. Nutrition info is an estimate. Always consult a nutritionist for dietary concerns.
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