Banana Granola Bars

Banana granola bars are a delightful fusion of wholesome ingredients that provide a burst of energy and flavor in every bite. These bars are perfect for breakfast on-the-go, a midday snack, or a post-workout refuel. Packed with the goodness of bananas, oats, nuts, and honey, they offer a satisfying balance of sweetness and nutrition. Plus, they’re easy to make and customizable to suit your taste preferences. Let’s dive into how you can whip up a batch of these delicious treats in your own kitchen.

Homemade banana granola bars are a nutritious and delicious snack option that’s easy to make at home. With simple ingredients and customizable flavors, they’re sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So, gather your ingredients and whip up a batch of these wholesome treats today!

Questions I often get asked about this recipe:

Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?
While instant oats can be used, the texture may be slightly different. Rolled oats provide a heartier texture and better binding for the bars.

Can I substitute the nuts with seeds for a nut-free version?
Yes, you can replace the nuts with seeds such as sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds to make nut-free banana granola bars.

Can I freeze these bars?
Yes, you can freeze the bars for longer storage. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap or parchment paper and place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw at room temperature or in the refrigerator before enjoying.

Can I reduce the amount of sweetener used?
Yes, you can adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup to suit your preference for sweetness. Just keep in mind that reducing the sweetener may affect the texture and binding of the bars slightly.

What you need to make Banana Granola Bars:

Ingredients:

2 ripe bananas, mashed

2 cups rolled oats

1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans)

1/4 cup honey or maple syrup

1/4 cup melted coconut oil or unsalted butter

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon salt

Optional add-ins: chocolate chips, dried fruit, seeds (chia, flax, pumpkin), shredded coconut

How to make it:

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking dish or tray with parchment paper or grease it lightly with cooking spray.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, melted coconut oil or butter, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

Add the rolled oats, chopped nuts, cinnamon, and salt to the wet mixture. Stir until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. If using any optional add-ins, fold them into the mixture at this stage.

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula or your hands to press it down firmly and evenly into the dish.

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown.

Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool completely in the dish. Once cooled, use a sharp knife to cut into individual bars.

Store the banana granola bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Tips:

Use ripe bananas:
Ripe bananas not only add natural sweetness but also provide a softer texture to the bars.

Customize your add-ins:
Get creative with your add-ins to tailor the flavor and texture of the bars to your liking. Whether it’s chocolate chips for a touch of indulgence or dried fruit for extra chewiness, the options are endless.

Press firmly:
When transferring the mixture to the baking dish, make sure to press it down firmly and evenly. This helps the bars hold together better once baked.

Allow cooling time:
Let the bars cool completely in the baking dish before cutting into them. This allows them to set properly and prevents them from crumbling.

Latest Reviews:

“These banana granola bars are a game-changer for my busy mornings! They’re so easy to make, and I love that I can customize them with different add-ins. Plus, they taste amazing!” – Leah

“I’ve been looking for a healthier alternative to store-bought granola bars, and these fit the bill perfectly. They’re not too sweet, and I appreciate knowing exactly what’s going into them. Definitely making these again!” – Tom

“As someone with food allergies, I’m always on the lookout for recipes I can customize to fit my dietary restrictions. These banana granola bars are versatile and easily adaptable to be gluten-free and dairy-free. Thank you for sharing!” – Chloe

“These bars are a hit with the whole family! Even my picky eater couldn’t resist them. They’re great for snacking on the go or as a quick breakfast option. I highly recommend giving them a try!” – Richard

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