Banana Oat Breakfast Bars

Name: Banana Oat Breakfast Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 2 cups rolled oats; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 cup peanut butter; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Optional: 1/2 cup nuts or chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Simple Healthy Meals Ideas

I love starting my day with these Banana Oat Breakfast Bars because they are not only delicious but also packed with nourishing ingredients. The combination of ripe bananas and oats creates a satisfying texture that keeps me full until lunch. I appreciate that they are quick to make and store easily, allowing me to prep them in advance for busy mornings. With a hint of cinnamon and the natural sweetness of honey, these bars are a wholesome treat that I can enjoy guilt-free any time of the day.

Created by

Megan Scott

Last updated on 2026-02-07T18:17:35.552Z

When I first experimented with these Banana Oat Breakfast Bars, I wanted something nutritious that would satisfy my sweet tooth without the guilt. After a few trials, I found that using ripe bananas not only sweetens the bars naturally but also adds to their lovely moist texture. A sprinkle of cinnamon gives an additional layer of flavor that elevates this healthy snack.

What truly makes these bars special is their versatility. You can mix in nuts or dried fruit according to your taste, and they hold up beautifully when stored in the fridge. I love making a batch at the beginning of the week and having quick, delicious fuel ready to go every morning.

Why You'll Love These Bars
Nutritious and filling without refined sugars
Easy to make ahead, perfect for meal prepping
Customizable with your favorite mix-ins
Delicious as a snack or a breakfast on-the-go

Nutritional Benefits

The foundation of these Banana Oat Breakfast Bars lies in their wholesome ingredients. Oats provide a great source of fiber, which not only supports digestive health but also helps stabilize blood sugar levels, keeping you feeling satisfied longer. Bananas are rich in potassium and natural sweetness, eliminating the need for excessive added sugars. Additionally, peanut butter brings healthy fats and protein to the mix, making these bars an energy-boosting snack for any time of the day.

Using honey or maple syrup as a natural sweetener introduces antioxidants and vitamins without the downside of refined sugars. If you prefer to avoid these sweeteners altogether, you can use a stevia blend or mashed dates for sweetness while keeping the bars healthy. Feel free to experiment with different nut butters as well—try almond butter for a nutty twist!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These breakfast bars are perfect for meal prepping; you can make a batch over the weekend and have easy breakfasts ready for the week. Once baked and cooled, wrap individual bars in wax paper or plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They also freeze beautifully—just place them in a freezer-safe bag, and you can enjoy them later. Thaw overnight in the fridge or pop them in the microwave for a quick breakfast fix.

If you notice the bars are getting a bit too dry after a few days, try drizzling a little honey or almond milk over them to rejuvenate the moisture. Cutting them into smaller squares allows for easy snacking and portion control, which is handy if you're on the go or packing lunchboxes.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

2 ripe bananas, mashed
2 cups rolled oats
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/2 cup peanut butter
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional: 1/2 cup nuts or chocolate chips

Mix these ingredients well in a bowl.

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your bars:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, rolled oats, honey, peanut butter, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until everything is well incorporated. If adding nuts or chocolate chips, fold them in now.

Bake the Bars

Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 25 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.

Cool and Cut

Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Cut into squares or rectangles and store in an airtight container.

Enjoy your healthy breakfast bars anytime!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different add-ins such as dried fruit, seeds, or spices to make these bars your own.

Flavor Variations

One of the best aspects of these bars is their versatility. You can customize the flavor profile to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For a chocolate lover's version, add cocoa powder to the original mixture, or stir in some dark chocolate chips as a delightful addition. For a fruitier option, consider folding in dried fruits like cranberries or raisins to amp up both flavor and texture.

If you're a fan of spices, you can adjust the flavor even further by mixing in a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for warmth. The options are truly endless—experimenting with different flavor combinations will keep breakfast fun and exciting week after week.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, the bars may turn out too dry or crumbly. This often happens if the bananas were not ripe enough or if the oats were over-measured. Make sure you're using bananas that are very ripe, as they are sweeter and contribute more moisture. If you find that your mixture seems too dry before baking, adding a little extra peanut butter or a splash of almond milk can help bind it together better.

On the other hand, if your bars are too sticky after baking, this could be a sign they need a few more minutes in the oven. Look for golden edges and a firm center when checking for doneness. Just remember to allow them to cool completely in the pan, as they'll firm up as they cool.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute maple syrup for honey?

Yes, you can use maple syrup in equal amounts as a vegan alternative.

→ How do I store the bars?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

→ Can I freeze these breakfast bars?

Absolutely! They freeze well. Just wrap each bar individually and store for up to three months.

→ What can I substitute if I don't have peanut butter?

Almond butter or sunflower seed butter are great alternatives.