Healthy Banana Oatmeal Bar Recipe
Creating nutritious snacks that satisfy your sweet tooth while supporting your wellness goals doesn't have to be complicated. These banana oatmeal bars pack clean carbohydrates, plant-based protein, and wholesome ingredients into every bite, perfect for busy mornings, post-workout fuel, or afternoon treats.
What makes these bars special? They're naturally sweetened with bananas, loaded with fiber-rich oats, and topped with creative protein packed options that won't derail your health goals. Whether you're focused on weight loss or simply want a cleaner alternative to store-bought bars, this recipe delivers both taste and nutrition.
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Why These Banana Oatmeal Bars Work for Your Health Goals
Traditional granola bars often contain hidden sugars, artificial ingredients, and empty calories that leave you hungry within an hour. These homemade banana oatmeal bars take a different approach.
The combination of rolled oats and gluten-free flour provides sustained energy through complex carbohydrates. Bananas contribute natural sweetness plus potassium and fiber. Vanilla protein powder boosts the protein content without artificial additives, while chia seeds add omega-3 fatty acids and additional fiber for satiety.
For those pursuing weight loss goals, these bars offer portion control and clean ingredients you can trust. The fiber and protein combination helps maintain stable blood sugar levels, reducing cravings throughout the day.
Essential Ingredients for Success
Base Ingredients:
2⅔ ripe bananas (the riper, the sweeter)
2⅔ cups rolled oats
1 cup gluten-free flour
⅔ cup vanilla protein powder
⅓ cup chia seeds
1⅔ cups unsweetened almond milk
Choose bananas with brown spots for maximum sweetness and easier mashing. Old-fashioned rolled oats work better than quick oats, providing better texture and sustained energy release. Quality protein powder makes a significant difference, look for options with minimal ingredients and no artificial sweeteners.
Step-by-Step Preparation
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 8x8 baking pan with parchment paper.
Mash the bananas until smooth, a few small lumps add pleasant texture. In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas with almond milk, mixing thoroughly.
Add the dry ingredients: oats, flour, protein powder, and chia seeds. Stir until just combined, over mixing can result in dense bars. The mixture should hold together when pressed, but not be overly wet.
Press the mixture evenly into your prepared pan. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to create an even surface. This ensures uniform baking and clean slices.
Bake for 30-45 minutes until the edges are lightly golden, and the center feels set when gently pressed. I like mine more gooey but for a more cakey texture, bake longer!
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Creative Low-Fat Topping Options
The right topping transforms these healthy bars into something special. Here are three protein-packed options that won't compromise your clean eating goals:
Protein Powder Glaze: Whisk 2 tablespoons vanilla protein powder with 1-2 tablespoons almond milk until smooth. Adjust consistency by adding liquid gradually. This creates a sweet, protein-rich drizzle that hardens slightly as it cools.
Greek Yogurt Cream Cheese Frosting: Combine ½ cup plain Greek yogurt with 2 tablespoons Greek cream cheese (this is higher in protein) and a touch of stevia or honey. This tangy option adds probiotics and additional protein while keeping calories in check.
Cinnamon-Spiced Protein Crumble: Mix 3 tablespoons protein powder with 1 teaspoon cinnamon and 2 tablespoons rolled oats. Sprinkle over bars before baking for added texture and warm spice flavor.
Storage and Serving Tips
Allow bars to cool completely before cutting, this prevents crumbling and ensures clean slices. Store covered at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for up to one week.
These bars freeze beautifully for up to three months. Wrap individual portions for grab-and-go convenience. Thaw at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Each bar provides balanced nutrition perfect for pre-workout energy, post-exercise recovery, or healthy snacking between meals.
Healthy Banana Oatmeal Bar Recipe
Easy banana oatmeal bars with clean carbs and protein. Perfect for weight loss goals with creative low-fat toppings. Ready in 45 minutes!
Ingredients
- 2⅔ ripe bananas (the riper, the sweeter)
- 2⅔ cups rolled oats
- 1 cup gluten-free flour
- ⅔ cup vanilla protein powder
- ⅓ cup chia seeds
- 1⅔ cups unsweetened almond milk
- 1 tsp cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 8x8 baking pan with parchment paper.
- Mash the bananas until smooth, a few small lumps add pleasant texture. In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas with almond milk, mixing thoroughly.
- Add the dry ingredients: oats, flour, protein powder, cinnamon and chia seeds. Stir until just combined, over mixing can result in dense bars. The mixture should hold together when pressed, but not be overly wet.
- Pour the mixture evenly into your prepared pan. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to create an even surface. This ensures uniform baking and clean slices.
- Bake for 30-45 minutes until the edges are lightly golden, and the center feels set when gently pressed, the time really depends on how you prefer your bars, I like mine gooey, but you may want them more cakey).
Nutrition Facts
Calories
133Fat
3 gSat. Fat
0 gCarbs
22 gFiber
4 gNet carbs
18 gSugar
3 gProtein
6 gSodium
47 mgCholesterol
9 mgThe nutrition information provided is only estimated based on an online nutritional calculator. I am not a dietician. Please consult a doctor for accurate, more personal information about your health and any dietary restrictions and concerns you may have.
Make These Bars Your Own
These banana oatmeal bars serve as your canvas for healthy creativity. Consider adding unsweetened cocoa powder for chocolate lovers, or swap chia seeds for hemp hearts for different nutritional benefits.
The beauty lies in their simplicity, wholesome ingredients that support your health goals while satisfying cravings naturally. Start with this base recipe, then experiment with your favorite clean additions.
Your journey toward healthier eating doesn't require sacrifice. It simply requires better choices, and these protein-packed, naturally sweetened bars prove that nourishing your body can be both simple and delicious.
Time to Get Baking!
We’ve walked you through the ingredients, shared the steps, and explored the benefits of rhubarb. Now, it’s your turn to roll up your sleeves and experience the magic of this easy oatmeal bar recipe.
With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’re moments away from creating a perfect snack that’s great for breakfast or a quiet afternoon treat.
We’d love to see your creations! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and tag us at @angiebloom. Have questions, or want to share your favorite add-ins? Drop a comment below or connect with us via email.
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