These Chunky Banana Walnut Bars are a delightful and wholesome treat, perfect for a quick breakfast, snack, or dessert. You’ll love how simple they are to prepare and their naturally sweet, satisfying flavor. These healthy bars are packed with goodness and are sure to become a favorite in your home.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Ripe Bananas: Essential for sweetness and moisture.
- Oats: Use old-fashioned rolled oats for the best texture.
- Whole Wheat Flour: Adds a hearty texture; all-purpose flour works too.
- Walnuts: Provides a lovely crunch and healthy fats; pecans are a great substitute.
- Maple Syrup: Natural sweetener; honey or agave nectar can be used.
Ingredients:
For the Bars:
- 1 ½ cups mashed ripe bananas (about 3-4 medium)
- ½ cup maple syrup
- ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 25-30 minutes
- Total time: 40-45 minutes
- Servings: 12 healthy bars
- Tools: 9×13 inch baking pan, large mixing bowls
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. This step ensures your healthy bars don’t stick.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, mash your ripe bananas until smooth. Add the maple syrup, unsweetened applesauce, and vanilla extract, then stir everything until well combined. This forms the base for your moist healthy bars.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. Make sure all dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Combine Wet and Dry
Pour the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients bowl. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make your healthy bars tough.
5. Fold in Walnuts
Add the chopped walnuts to the batter. Fold them in until they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. These nuts add a fantastic crunch to your healthy bars.
6. Bake Your Bars
Spread the batter evenly into your prepared 9×13 inch baking pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the healthy bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing.
Variation Ideas:
- Add ½ cup of chocolate chips or dried cranberries for extra flavor.
- Stir in 1 tablespoon of chia seeds or flax seeds for added nutrition.
- Substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for a warmer spice profile.
Storage Instructions:
Once completely cooled, store your Chunky Banana Walnut Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen bars at room temperature or warm gently before enjoying.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can I use overripe bananas for these healthy bars?
Yes, overripe bananas with brown spots are perfect as they are sweeter and easier to mash, contributing more flavor and moisture.
What kind of oats should I use?
Old-fashioned rolled oats are recommended for the best texture in these healthy bars. Instant oats can make them too soft.
Are these Chunky Banana Walnut Bars gluten-free?
To make them gluten-free, use certified gluten-free rolled oats and a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These healthy bars are great for meal prep and can be stored as described in the storage instructions.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Can I reduce the maple syrup?
You can slightly reduce the maple syrup if your bananas are very ripe, but for the best flavor and texture, follow the recipe as written for these healthy bars.