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
- 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.
- Mash the Bananas: Peel the bananas and mash them in a separate bowl until smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the mashed bananas, eggs, and vanillin (or vanilla extract) to the soaked oats. Stir until evenly combined.
- Add Cocoa and Baking Powder: Sift in the bitter cocoa powder and baking powder, then mix until the batter is smooth and uniform.
- 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
- 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.
- Pour and Spread: Pour the batter into the prepared dish and spread it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before adding the topping.
Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Topping
- Melt the Chocolate: In a heatproof bowl, combine the dark chocolate with the boiling milk. Stir until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
- Spread the Topping: Pour the melted chocolate over the cooled bars, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- 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
- Once the chocolate topping has set, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang.
- Transfer the bars to a cutting board and slice into squares or rectangles.
- 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