These Healthy Oatmeal Bars are the perfect guilt-free snack or breakfast option! Packed with the natural sweetness of apples and bananas, a touch of cinnamon, and the crunch of nuts, these bars are nutritious, filling, and incredibly easy to make.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
- 100g (~1 cup) oats, ground into flour
- 50g (~1/2 cup) oats
- 1 apple, grated
- 1 banana, mashed
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon (or to taste)
- 2 tbsp coconut oil (or your favorite oil)
- 40g (~1/3 cup) nuts or almonds, chopped
Directions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F).
- Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Oat Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground oats and whole oats.
- Add Fruits and Spices:
- Add the grated apple, mashed banana, and cinnamon to the oat mixture. Mix until well combined.
- Incorporate Oil and Nuts:
- Stir in the coconut oil and chopped nuts or almonds, ensuring the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Transfer to Baking Dish:
- Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, pressing it down firmly with a spatula to create a compact layer.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bars are set.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the bars cool completely in the dish before cutting them into squares or rectangles. Enjoy as a snack, breakfast, or dessert!
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a quick morning boost.
- Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt or drizzle with honey for added sweetness.
- Serve as an on-the-go snack or pack in lunchboxes.
Cooking Tips
- Use ripe bananas for extra sweetness and better binding.
- Swap coconut oil with butter or olive oil if preferred.
- Add a handful of dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or dates for extra flavor.
Nutritional Benefits
- Oats: High in fiber, aiding digestion and keeping you full longer.
- Bananas and Apples: Provide natural sweetness, vitamins, and antioxidants.
- Nuts: Offer healthy fats and protein.
Dietary Information
- Dairy-free and vegetarian.
- Gluten-free if using certified gluten-free oats.
- Vegan-friendly.
Nutritional Facts (per bar, approximate)
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
Storage
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerate for up to 7 days for longer shelf life.
- Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Made with wholesome, natural ingredients.
- Perfect for meal prepping and on-the-go snacks.
- Customizable with your favorite add-ins.
- Satisfying, healthy, and family-approved!
Conclusion
These Healthy Oatmeal Bars with Apple and Banana are a delicious way to enjoy a nutritious snack or breakfast. Easy to prepare and loaded with natural goodness, they’re a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use quick oats? Yes, but the texture may be softer.
- Can I substitute the banana? Use applesauce or mashed sweet potatoes as a substitute.
- Can I make these nut-free? Replace nuts with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
- What size baking dish should I use? A 9×9-inch dish works well. Adjust baking time for larger or smaller dishes.
- Can I add chocolate chips? Absolutely! Add a handful for a touch of sweetness.
- How do I make them sweeter? Add 1-2 tablespoons of honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar.
- Can I skip the coconut oil? Yes, replace it with equal amounts of butter or another oil.
- Can I double the recipe? Yes, double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish.
- How do I know they’re done? The top should be golden brown, and the mixture should feel firm when pressed.
- Can I reheat them? Yes, warm them in the microwave or oven for a few seconds before serving.