These baked oatmeal breakfast bars are a hearty and healthy way to start your day! Packed with oats, bananas, and warm cinnamon flavor, they make for a great grab-and-go breakfast or snack.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

3 cups old-fashioned oats
½ cup brown sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup milk
2 large eggs
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup mashed banana (about 2 medium bananas)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
In a large bowl, mix together oats, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
In another bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and mashed banana until well combined.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until fully incorporated.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
Let cool slightly before cutting into bars. Serve warm or store for later.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving – Makes 8 Servings)

Calories: 220
Carbohydrates: 36g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Sodium: 180mg
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 14g

Why You’ll Love Baked Oatmeal Breakfast Bars

Baked oatmeal bars combine the best of both worlds: the comforting taste of traditional oatmeal and the convenience of a grab-and-go snack. Here are a few reasons why these bars are worth making:

Easy to Prepare – You don’t need to be a skilled baker to whip up a batch of these delicious bars. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, they are a foolproof recipe for all experience levels.
Nutritious and Filling – Oats are rich in fiber, which helps with digestion and keeps you feeling satisfied for longer. The addition of bananas and other natural ingredients adds essential vitamins and minerals.
Customizable – You can easily adjust the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Add nuts, dried fruit, or chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture.
Meal Prep Friendly – Make a batch in advance and store them for the week. They stay fresh for days and can be refrigerated or frozen for longer shelf life.
Kid-Friendly – Even picky eaters will enjoy these bars, making them a great option for school lunches or after-school snacks.

The Health Benefits of Oatmeal in Breakfast Bars

Oats are known for being one of the healthiest grains you can eat. They are gluten-free (when certified) and packed with important nutrients that support overall well-being. Here are some of the top health benefits of including oats in your diet:

High in Fiber – Oats contain beta-glucan, a type of soluble fiber that helps lower cholesterol levels, improves heart health, and aids digestion.
Rich in Antioxidants – Oats are full of powerful antioxidants, including avenanthramides, which help reduce inflammation and promote better circulation.
Balances Blood Sugar – The fiber in oats slows down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream, making it a great choice for those managing diabetes or blood sugar levels.
Supports Weight Management – Because oats keep you full for longer, they can help reduce cravings and support weight management goals.
Provides Energy – The complex carbohydrates in oats provide slow-releasing energy, making them a great breakfast choice for sustained fuel throughout the day.

Why Baked Oatmeal Bars Are a Great Meal Prep Option

One of the best things about baked oatmeal breakfast bars is how meal-prep-friendly they are. If you struggle to find time to make a nutritious breakfast in the morning, preparing these bars ahead of time can be a lifesaver.

Saves Time – Instead of cooking oatmeal each morning, bake a batch of bars on the weekend, and you’ll have breakfast ready for the entire week.
Easy to Pack – These bars are ideal for taking to work, school, or the gym. Just grab one and go!
Minimizes Food Waste – Have ripe bananas that need to be used? This recipe is a great way to use up overripe fruit instead of throwing it away.
Budget-Friendly – Oatmeal is one of the most affordable and nutritious ingredients, making these bars an economical choice.

Ways to Customize Your Baked Oatmeal Bars

One of the best things about baked oatmeal breakfast bars is how versatile they are. You can tailor them to your preferences or dietary restrictions with a few simple modifications:

Add Nuts and Seeds – Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, or flaxseeds can enhance the nutritional profile by adding healthy fats and protein.
Mix in Fruits – Fresh or dried fruits like blueberries, raisins, or chopped apples can add natural sweetness and variety.
Include Spices – Cinnamon is a classic addition, but you can experiment with nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom for a different flavor profile.
Use Alternative Sweeteners – If you want to reduce sugar, try using honey, maple syrup, or mashed dates as natural sweeteners.
Make Them Vegan – Substitute eggs with flax eggs and use dairy-free milk and butter alternatives for a completely plant-based version.
Increase Protein – Add protein powder or Greek yogurt to boost the protein content, making these bars an even more satisfying meal.

How to Store and Serve Baked Oatmeal Bars

These bars are perfect for meal prepping because they stay fresh for several days. Here’s how you can store and enjoy them:

Room Temperature – Store them in an airtight container for up to two days.
Refrigeration – Keep them in the fridge for up to a week for extended freshness.
Freezing – Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Simply thaw overnight or microwave for 20-30 seconds before eating.

You can enjoy these bars as-is or pair them with a variety of toppings and accompaniments:

Serve warm with a drizzle of honey or nut butter.
Enjoy with a side of Greek yogurt and fresh fruit for a balanced meal.
Crumble over a smoothie bowl for extra texture and flavor.

Common Questions About Baked Oatmeal Breakfast Bars

Are baked oatmeal bars healthy?

Yes! These bars are made with wholesome ingredients like oats, bananas, and natural sweeteners, making them a nutritious option compared to store-bought granola bars filled with preservatives and artificial additives.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just make sure to use certified gluten-free oats.

How can I make these bars crunchier?

For a crispier texture, bake them for a few extra minutes or add chopped nuts for a crunchy bite.

What’s the best way to reheat baked oatmeal bars?

You can microwave them for 20-30 seconds or warm them in the oven at 300°F for a few minutes.

Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?

Yes, but the texture may be slightly different. Old-fashioned oats provide a heartier consistency, while quick oats will result in softer bars.

Conclusion

Baked oatmeal breakfast bars are a game-changer for anyone looking for a nutritious and delicious breakfast option. They provide a perfect balance of fiber, protein, and natural sweetness, making them a healthier alternative to processed breakfast snacks. Their versatility allows for endless customization, so you can switch up the flavors and ingredients based on your preferences.

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