These Baked Apple & Banana Oatmeal Bars are a healthy, naturally sweet, and nutritious snack or breakfast option. Made with oats, nuts, fruit, and seeds, they are soft, chewy, and full of fiber. Perfect for meal prep, an on-the-go snack, or a wholesome dessert, these bars are easy to make and packed with energy-boosting ingredients!
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Bake Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 6-8 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup oatmeal
- ½ cup nuts, chopped (walnuts, almonds, pecans, etc.)
- 1 tbsp sweetener (honey, maple syrup, or stevia)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- 1 tbsp sunflower seeds
- ¼ tsp cinnamon
- 1 apple, peeled and chopped
- 1 banana, mashed
- ½ cup additional oatmeal
Directions
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (360°F).
- Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- 1 cup oatmeal
- ½ cup chopped nuts
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- 1 tbsp sunflower seeds
- ¼ tsp cinnamon
- Mix well.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Step 3: Prepare the Fruits
- Peel and chop the apple into small pieces.
- In a separate bowl, mash the banana with a fork.
- Step 4: Combine Ingredients
- Add the chopped apple and mashed banana to the dry ingredients.
- Stir in 1 tbsp sweetener and mix well.
- Add the additional ½ cup of oatmeal to help bind the mixture.
- Step 5: Bake the Oatmeal Bars
- Lightly grease a baking dish or line with parchment paper.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared dish and spread evenly.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the mixture is set.
- Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
- Let cool for a few minutes before slicing into bars.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness.
- Enjoy with a dollop of Greek yogurt for added protein.
- Pair with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy treat.
- Add a sprinkle of chopped nuts or dried fruit for extra texture.
Cooking Tips
- For crunchier bars, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.
- Use overripe bananas for natural sweetness.
- Substitute nuts with seeds for a nut-free version.
- For extra flavor, add vanilla extract or nutmeg.
- Store in the fridge for a firmer texture.
Nutritional Benefits
- Oats are high in fiber and heart-healthy nutrients.
- Bananas provide natural sweetness and potassium.
- Apples add vitamins and antioxidants.
- Nuts and seeds provide healthy fats and protein.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian-friendly
- Dairy-free
- Gluten-free (if using certified gluten-free oats)
Nutritional Facts (Per Bar)
- Calories: 140-160 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 3g
Storage & Freezing
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Wrap individually and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Microwave for 15-20 seconds before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick, easy, and made with simple ingredients.
- Naturally sweet with no refined sugar needed.
- Perfect for meal prep and a grab-and-go snack.
- Customizable with different nuts, seeds, and spices.
Conclusion
These Baked Apple & Banana Oatmeal Bars are a nutrient-packed, easy-to-make treat that’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. They’re soft, naturally sweet, and loaded with wholesome ingredients. Try them today and enjoy a healthy, homemade energy boost!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I make this recipe without nuts? Yes! Use pumpkin or sunflower seeds instead.
- Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats? Yes, but the texture will be slightly softer.
- Can I add chocolate chips? Absolutely! Stir in ¼ cup of dark chocolate chips for extra indulgence.
- What’s the best apple to use? Sweet varieties like Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji work well.
- How do I prevent the bars from crumbling? Let them cool completely before cutting.
- Can I use almond or coconut flour instead of oatmeal? Yes, but the texture will change slightly.
- Can I turn these into muffins? Yes! Pour into muffin tins and bake for 20-25 minutes.
- How do I make them vegan? Replace honey with maple syrup or agave.
- Are these bars good for weight loss? Yes! They are low in sugar, high in fiber, and nutrient-dense.
- How can I add more protein? Stir in a scoop of protein powder or some chia seeds.