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Guilt-Free Chocolate Banana Oat Bars!


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  • Author: Raven
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 12 bars 1x

Description

Soft, chocolatey, and naturally sweet, these Guilt-Free Chocolate Banana Oat Bars are your new favorite snack or dessert! Made with wholesome oats, ripe bananas, and a touch of dark chocolate, these bars are packed with flavor and nutrition. Whether you need a quick energy boost, a healthy treat for kids, or a dessert that feels indulgent without the guilt, this recipe delivers. Plus, they’re simple to make, customizable, and perfect for any time of day.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Main Mixture:

  • 120g (3/4 cup + 1 Tbsp) oat flakes
  • 200ml (5/6 cup) hot milk
  • 2 ripe bananas
  • 2 eggs
  • A pinch of vanillin or 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 40g (1/2 cup) bitter cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • Chopped walnuts (to taste)
  • Chocolate chips (optional, to taste; use dark or semi-sweet for a healthier option)

For the Chocolate Topping:

  • 100g (1/2 cup + 2 Tbsp) dark or semi-sweet chocolate
  • 40ml (3 Tbsp) boiling milk

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Main Mixture

  1. Soak the Oats: Combine the oat flakes and hot milk in a large mixing bowl. Stir well and let sit for about 5 minutes to soften the oats.
  2. Mash the Bananas: Peel the bananas and mash them in a separate bowl until smooth.
  3. Combine Ingredients: Add the mashed bananas, eggs, and vanillin (or vanilla extract) to the soaked oats. Stir until evenly combined.
  4. Add Cocoa and Baking Powder: Sift in the bitter cocoa powder and baking powder, then mix until the batter is smooth and uniform.
  5. Add Nuts and Chocolate Chips: Fold in the chopped walnuts and chocolate chips (if using) for extra texture and flavor.

Step 2: Bake the Bars

  1. Prepare the Baking Pan: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving extra overhang for easy removal.
  2. Pour and Spread: Pour the batter into the prepared dish and spread it evenly with a spatula.
  3. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  4. Cool: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before adding the topping.

Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Topping

  1. Melt the Chocolate: In a heatproof bowl, combine the dark chocolate with the boiling milk. Stir until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
  2. Spread the Topping: Pour the melted chocolate over the cooled bars, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
  3. Set the Topping: Allow the chocolate to set at room temperature, or place the bars in the refrigerator for quicker setting.

Step 4: Slice and Serve

  1. Once the chocolate topping has set, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang.
  2. Transfer the bars to a cutting board and slice into squares or rectangles.
  3. Serve as a healthy snack, dessert, or quick breakfast.

Notes

  • Customizable Add-Ins: Swap walnuts for almonds, pecans, or hazelnuts, and experiment with dried fruits like raisins or cranberries.
  • Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months.
  • Sweetness Level: The bananas naturally sweeten the bars, but feel free to adjust by adding a drizzle of honey or maple syrup if desired.
  • Serving Suggestions: Enjoy these bars with a cup of coffee, tea, or as a pre- or post-workout snack.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Gluten-Free Option