Banana Oatmeal Bars

These banana oatmeal bars are soft, chewy, and naturally sweetened — the perfect make-ahead snack or wholesome breakfast treat. Made with ripe bananas, hearty oats, and just a handful of pantry staples, they’re easy to whip up in one bowl and customizable with your favorite mix-ins. I love having a batch ready for busy mornings or afternoon cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how simple and nourishing these bars are. They’re a great way to use up overripe bananas and are naturally sweet, so I don’t feel guilty reaching for one. They’re kid-friendly, freezer-friendly, and great for on-the-go snacking. Whether I’m looking for a quick breakfast, a lunchbox addition, or a post-workout bite, these bars always hit the spot.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ripe bananas (mashed)

• Old-fashioned rolled oats

• Nut butter (like peanut butter or almond butter)

• Honey or maple syrup

• Egg

• Vanilla extract

• Cinnamon

• Baking powder

• Salt

• Optional: chocolate chips, chopped nuts, raisins, or dried fruit

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

2. In a large bowl, I mash the bananas until smooth.

3. I stir in the egg, nut butter, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract until well combined.

4. I add the oats, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt, mixing until fully incorporated.

5. I fold in any optional add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts.

6. I spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top.

7. I bake for 22–28 minutes, or until the bars are set and a toothpick comes out clean from the center.

8. I let them cool completely before slicing into bars.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 9–12 bars depending on how I slice them.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• I sometimes use applesauce in place of some of the banana for a different texture.

• For extra protein, I add a scoop of protein powder to the mix.

• A dash of nutmeg or ginger adds warm spice.

• I’ve made them vegan by replacing the egg with a flax egg and using maple syrup.

• I like to swirl in Nutella or peanut butter on top before baking for extra flavor.

storage/reheating

I store these bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to a week. For longer storage, I freeze them individually wrapped and reheat in the microwave for 15–20 seconds. They’re just as soft and delicious after thawing.

FAQs

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, I’ve used quick oats and they work fine. The texture is slightly softer, but the bars still hold together well.

Are these bars gluten-free?

Yes, if I use certified gluten-free oats, the bars are completely gluten-free. I always double-check my other ingredients too.

Can I make them without sweetener?

The bananas provide natural sweetness, so I sometimes skip the honey or syrup for a lower-sugar version — especially if I add chocolate chips.

Do they need to be refrigerated?

Not necessarily, but I like to store them in the fridge to keep them fresh longer — especially during warmer months.

What can I serve with these bars?

I enjoy them with a cup of coffee or a side of yogurt. They also make a great grab-and-go breakfast paired with fruit or a smoothie.

Conclusion

These banana oatmeal bars are a go-to recipe in my kitchen — simple, wholesome, and endlessly adaptable. I love how they come together in minutes and keep well throughout the week. Whether I’m making them for the kids, for myself, or to share with friends, they always disappear fast.