These Banana Oatmeal Bars are a delicious and healthy snack that’s easy to prepare. With the natural sweetness of bananas, the richness of cocoa, and the crunch of peanuts, they make a perfect treat for breakfast or a midday snack. Plus, they’re simple to make and require minimal time!
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour (plus 30 minutes)
Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas
- 2g cinnamon
- 35g cocoa powder
- 500g oat flakes
- 1 cake tray (22 cm)
- 1 more banana (for topping)
- 150g dark chocolate
- 15ml vegetable oil
- 70g peanuts
Directions
- Mash the Bananas: Mash the two bananas in a large bowl until smooth.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Stir in the cinnamon, cocoa powder, and oat flakes until well combined.
- Prepare the Cake Tray: Line the 22 cm cake tray with parchment paper and press the banana-oat mixture evenly into the tray.
- Chill the Mixture: Place the tray in the fridge for 1 hour to set.
- Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate and vegetable oil together for about 2 minutes in the microwave. Stir until smooth.
- Add Peanuts: Chop the peanuts and stir them into the melted chocolate.
- Top the Bars: Slice the remaining banana and place the slices on top of the set oat mixture. Pour the chocolate and peanut mixture over the top.
- Chill Again: Return the tray to the fridge for 30 more minutes to allow everything to set.
- Slice and Serve: Once firm, cut into bars and serve!
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy as a breakfast bar with a cup of tea or coffee.
- Serve as a mid-afternoon snack to curb your sweet tooth.
- Pack them in lunchboxes for a healthy snack on the go.
- Top with Greek yogurt for added protein and creaminess.
- Pair with a fresh fruit salad for a balanced meal.
Cooking Tips
- Make sure the bananas are ripe for natural sweetness.
- If you prefer a sweeter taste, add honey or maple syrup to the mixture.
- For an extra crunch, you can add some seeds or dried fruits.
- Store the bars in an airtight container in the fridge to keep them fresh.
- You can also freeze these bars for up to a month for later enjoyment.
Nutritional Benefits
- High in fiber and antioxidants from the oats and bananas.
- Packed with healthy fats and protein from peanuts and dark chocolate.
- Offers natural sweetness without added sugar.
- Provides sustained energy, perfect for fueling your day.
Dietary Information
- Vegan (if using dairy-free chocolate).
- Nut-free option (if you skip the peanuts).
- Dairy-free (if using dairy-free chocolate).
- Can be made gluten-free by using certified gluten-free oats.
Nutritional Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 9g
Storage
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the bars for up to 1 month.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Banana Oatmeal Bars are the perfect combination of wholesome ingredients and indulgent flavors. They’re packed with nutritious oats, sweet bananas, and rich dark chocolate, making them a healthy yet delicious treat. Plus, they’re super easy to make and can be customized to fit your taste preferences!
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Conclusion
These Banana Oatmeal Bars with Dark Chocolate and Peanuts are a delightful and nutritious snack. They’re easy to prepare, and the perfect way to enjoy a balance of sweetness and crunch. Whether you’re having them for breakfast, as a snack, or as an on-the-go treat, they’re sure to satisfy your cravings. Enjoy them fresh from the fridge or as a quick energy booster throughout the day!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a different nut instead of peanuts?
Yes, feel free to use almonds, walnuts, or cashews instead of peanuts. - Can I substitute the dark chocolate for milk chocolate?
Yes, you can use milk chocolate, but it will add more sweetness. - How long can I store these bars?
They can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 1 month. - Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, but the texture may be slightly different. Rolled oats work best for a chewier consistency. - Are these bars gluten-free?
Yes, they are gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free oats. - Can I make these bars sweeter?
Absolutely! You can add honey or maple syrup to taste. - Can I use a different type of fruit?
Yes, you can try using apple slices, berries, or dried fruits for variation. - Is there a substitute for vegetable oil?
You can use coconut oil or melted butter as alternatives. - Can I make these bars without the chocolate?
Yes, if you prefer, you can skip the chocolate and top with more fruit or nuts. - Do I need to bake these bars?
No, these bars don’t require baking, just chilling to set them.