In a world filled with quick, processed snacks, finding a healthy yet indulgent treat can sometimes feel like an impossible task. But what if you could have a snack that satisfies your sweet tooth, fuels your body with wholesome ingredients, and is easy to make? These Banana and Cocoa Oat Bars with Dark Chocolate and Peanuts are the perfect solution. Packed with the natural sweetness of bananas, the richness of dark chocolate, and the goodness of oats and peanuts, this recipe checks all the boxes for a nutritious yet delicious snack.
What makes these bars timeless is the balance they strike between health-conscious ingredients and satisfying flavors. Bananas are a fantastic source of potassium and natural sweetness, while oats provide fiber and energy to keep you full throughout the day. The addition of cinnamon and cocoa gives these bars a depth of flavor, making them taste indulgent without the guilt. Dark chocolate adds a touch of decadence, and the peanuts provide a crunchy texture that complements the chewy oats. Together, these ingredients create a snack that not only tastes amazing but is also good for you.
This recipe is versatile and can be enjoyed at any time of day—whether as a breakfast on the go, a mid-afternoon pick-me-up, or a post-workout treat. It’s a perfect snack for anyone looking to nourish their body with wholesome, natural ingredients while still indulging in a little bit of chocolatey goodness. Whether you’re feeding your family, packing lunches for the kids, or looking for a healthier alternative to store-bought granola bars, these Banana and Cocoa Oat Bars are sure to become a favorite.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 g (0.1 oz) cinnamon, ground
- 35 g (1.2 oz) cocoa powder
- 500 g (18 oz) oat flakes
- 1 ripe banana, mashed (additional)
- 150 g (5.3 oz) dark chocolate, chopped
- 15 ml (0.5 fl oz) vegetable oil
- 70 g (2.5 oz) peanuts, chopped or whole, depending on preference
Steps to Make Banana and Cocoa Oat Bars with Dark Chocolate and Peanuts:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking pan (preferably 9×9 inches) with parchment paper to ensure the bars do not stick.
2. Mash the Bananas:
- In a large mixing bowl, peel and mash the 2 ripe bananas until smooth. This will be the base of your oat mixture. The natural sweetness of the bananas will help bind the ingredients together and provide moisture to the bars.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, mix the oats, cinnamon, and cocoa powder together. Stir until well combined. The cocoa powder will give the bars a rich chocolate flavor, while the cinnamon adds warmth and depth.
4. Mix Wet Ingredients:
- Add the vegetable oil to the mashed bananas and mix well. This will provide the necessary fat to help bind the ingredients together while adding richness to the bars.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry oat mixture into the mashed banana mixture, stirring until fully combined. The oats should absorb the moisture from the bananas, and the dough will begin to form. You want a thick batter consistency.
6. Add Peanuts:
- Gently fold in the chopped peanuts into the oat mixture. The peanuts will add a delicious crunch and a savory contrast to the sweetness of the banana and cocoa.
7. Transfer to the Baking Pan:
- Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. Press the mixture down gently to compact it and ensure the bars bake evenly.
8. Bake the Bars:
- Bake the bars in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until they are firm to the touch and golden brown on the edges. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
9. Prepare the Chocolate Drizzle:
- While the bars are baking, chop the dark chocolate into small pieces. Place it in a heatproof bowl and melt it over a double boiler or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently.
10. Finish the Bars:
- Once the bars have baked and cooled slightly, drizzle the melted dark chocolate over the top. Allow the chocolate to set for about 10 minutes before slicing the bars into squares or rectangles.
11. Cool and Serve:
- Let the bars cool completely before cutting them into pieces. This will ensure the chocolate hardens and the bars hold their shape.
Prep Time:
- 10 minutes (for mashing the bananas and preparing the ingredients)
Cooking Time:
- 20-25 minutes (baking time)
Total Time:
- 30-35 minutes (including cooling time)
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 200-250 kcal (depending on size)
- Protein: 5-7 g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35 g
- Fat: 8-10 g
- Fiber: 4-5 g
- Sugar: 12-15 g (natural sugars from bananas)
Servings:
- This recipe makes about 12-16 bars, depending on how large you cut them.
Explanation of the Recipe: Why It’s Timeless:
The timeless appeal of these Banana and Cocoa Oat Bars lies in their simplicity, nutritional benefits, and the balance of flavors. By combining familiar ingredients like bananas, oats, and peanuts, this recipe allows you to make a delicious and healthy snack that’s both satisfying and filling. The addition of dark chocolate takes these bars to a more indulgent level, making them perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth who still wants to enjoy a wholesome treat.
The oats and bananas provide slow-burning energy, while the peanuts give you a dose of healthy fats and protein. The dark chocolate offers an antioxidant boost, and the cinnamon and cocoa bring rich, comforting flavors. These bars are not only great for a mid-afternoon snack but also work as a post-workout refuel or a breakfast on the go.
FAQs:
1. Can I use another nut instead of peanuts?
- Yes, feel free to substitute peanuts with other nuts such as almonds, walnuts, or cashews for a different flavor and texture.
2. Can I make these bars without chocolate?
- While the chocolate adds a lovely indulgent touch, you can skip it or replace it with a drizzle of honey for sweetness.
3. Can I make these bars vegan?
- Yes! To make these bars vegan, simply replace the honey or any dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives.
4. How do I store these bars?
- Store these bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to a week.
Tips for Making the Perfect Banana and Cocoa Oat Bars:
- Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and moister the bars will be. Overripe bananas work best.
- Use Rolled Oats: Rolled oats work best in this recipe because they create a chewy texture. Instant oats may result in a softer, less sturdy bar.
- Let the Bars Cool Completely: This ensures that the bars firm up properly and the chocolate drizzle sets perfectly.
Conclusion:
These Banana and Cocoa Oat Bars with Dark Chocolate and Peanuts are the perfect combination of wholesome ingredients and indulgent flavors. Easy to make and packed with nutrients, they are a great addition to any meal plan or as a snack on the go. Whether you’re looking for a healthier alternative to store-bought granola bars or need a quick, filling breakfast, this recipe will not disappoint. The rich chocolate, sweet bananas, and crunchy peanuts create a flavor-packed treat that will satisfy your cravings and keep you energized throughout the day. Try this recipe today, and let it become a staple in your snack repertoire!