If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and nutritious snack, these Banana Nut Bars are the perfect solution! Made with wholesome ingredients like bananas, nuts, and oats, they’re ideal for busy mornings, post-workout fuel, or a mid-day energy boost. Plus, they’re naturally sweetened with bananas, making them a guilt-free treat.
Why You’ll Love These Banana Nut Bars
- All-Natural Ingredients: Made with simple, wholesome ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
- Energy-Boosting: Oats provide long-lasting energy, while the nuts offer healthy fats and protein.
- Naturally Sweet: No need for refined sugar—the sweetness comes from ripe bananas.
- Easy to Make: No need for fancy equipment or techniques. These bars come together quickly with just a few steps.
Recipe: Banana Nut Bars
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe bananas (mashed)
- 1 ½ cups rolled oats
- ½ cup mixed nuts (walnuts, almonds, or your choice)
- Optional: 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, oats, and nuts. Add optional honey, vanilla extract, or cinnamon if you like a little extra flavor.
- Shape the Bars: Press the mixture into the baking dish, spreading it evenly with the back of a spoon.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bars are golden brown and firm.
- Cool and Slice: Let the bars cool completely before slicing them into squares or rectangles. Enjoy them as is, or store them in the fridge for up to a week.
Benefits of the Ingredients
- Bananas: A natural source of sweetness, rich in potassium, fiber, and vitamins. Bananas help provide energy and support heart health.
- Nuts: Loaded with healthy fats, fiber, and protein, nuts like almonds and walnuts help keep you full and provide a satisfying crunch.
- Oats: A great source of complex carbohydrates and fiber, oats help maintain blood sugar levels and keep you feeling full for longer.
Perfect for Meal Prep
These banana nut bars are great for meal prepping. You can make a batch at the beginning of the week and grab one on your way out the door. They’re portable, healthy, and delicious.
Customization Ideas
- Add Chocolate Chips: For a sweet twist, add a handful of dark chocolate chips to the mix.
- Fruit and Seeds: Mix in dried cranberries, raisins, or chia seeds for extra texture and nutrients.
- Nut Butter Drizzle: Drizzle almond or peanut butter over the bars before serving for extra richness.