Healthy Oatmeal Breakfast Bars
Delicious and nutritious breakfast bars made with oats, sweetened naturally, and enriched with nut butter and banana. Perfect for meal prepping and busy mornings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup sweetener of choice
- 1/4 cup almond butter or peanut butter can substitute with sunflower seed butter for nut-free option
- 1 ripe banana mashed can substitute with applesauce for a vegan option
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup mixed nuts or seeds optional, for extra crunch
- 1/2 cup dried fruits optional, for added sweetness
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix together the rolled oats, cinnamon, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine the honey (or maple syrup), almond butter (or peanut butter), mashed banana, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until well combined. Fold in mixed nuts or seeds and dried fruits if using.
- Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish, pressing down firmly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.
Notes
These bars can be served warm or at room temperature and pair well with yogurt or fresh fruit. Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.