These Strawberry Banana Oat Bars are a perfect way to enjoy a healthy berry breakfast. You’ll love how easy they are to make, and they’re packed with flavor and goodness to start your day right. This recipe offers a delicious and convenient option for busy mornings or a wholesome snack.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Oats: Use old-fashioned rolled oats for the best texture. Quick oats work but may result in a softer bar.
- Strawberries: Fresh or frozen (thawed and drained) work well.
- Bananas: Ripe bananas are best for natural sweetness.
- Sweetener: Maple syrup or honey are great choices.
- Milk: Any plant-based milk or dairy milk can be used.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour (or all-purpose flour)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (or honey)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 8 bars
- Calories per serving: Approximately 180 calories
- Tools Needed: 8×8 inch baking pan, mixing bowls, whisk
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Your Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. This makes it easy to lift out the bars later.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well combined. This ensures even distribution of flavor.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, mash your ripe banana. Add the unsweetened applesauce, milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the mashed banana. Stir everything together until it is smooth.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter.
5. Fold in Strawberries
Add the diced fresh strawberries to the oat mixture. Gently fold them in until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. This step makes your healthy berry breakfast bars extra fruity.
6. Press into the Pan and Bake
Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking pan. Press it down firmly and evenly with the back of a spoon or your hands. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and Cut
Once baked, let the bars cool completely in the pan before attempting to cut them. Cooling helps them set properly. After cooling, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the entire slab of bars out of the pan and cut them into 8 equal squares. Enjoy your homemade healthy berry breakfast!
Variation Ideas:
- Mixed Berry Blast: Use a combination of blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries.
- Nutty Boost: Add 1/4 cup chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts to the oat mixture.
- Chocolate Swirl: Swirl in a few tablespoons of melted dark chocolate over the top before baking.
- Tropical Twist: Replace half the strawberries with diced pineapple or mango.
Storage Instructions:
Store your Strawberry Banana Oat Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. These bars also freeze well; wrap individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the microwave.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
A: Yes, you can, but the texture will be softer and less chewy.
Q: Are these bars gluten-free?
A: If you use certified gluten-free rolled oats and a gluten-free flour blend, then yes, they can be made gluten-free.
Q: Can I reduce the amount of sweetener?
A: Absolutely! The ripeness of your bananas will add natural sweetness, so feel free to adjust the maple syrup to your preference.
Q: How do I know if my bananas are ripe enough?
A: Ripe bananas will have brown spots on their skin and will be soft to the touch, making them easy to mash.
Q: Can I add protein powder to these bars?
A: You can, but adding dry protein powder might change the texture. You may need to add a bit more liquid to compensate.
Q: Why are my bars crumbly?
A: This could be due to not pressing them firmly enough into the pan or not cooling them completely before cutting.