Banana Nut Breakfast Bars
Highlighted under: Fresh & Wholesome Recipes
These Banana Nut Breakfast Bars are a delightful way to start your day, blending wholesome ingredients with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas.
There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of banana bread baking in the oven. These Banana Nut Breakfast Bars are an easy-to-make option for busy mornings, packed with the goodness of bananas and nuts. Whether you're rushing out the door or enjoying a leisurely breakfast at home, these bars are sure to please!
Why You'll Love These Bars
- Moist and chewy texture that satisfies your morning cravings
- Packed with wholesome ingredients for a nutritious start
- Easy to make ahead and perfect for on-the-go breakfasts
The Perfect Start to Your Morning
There's nothing quite like a nutritious breakfast to kickstart your day, and these Banana Nut Breakfast Bars hit all the right notes. They are not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying, making them an ideal choice for busy mornings. Packed with wholesome oats and the natural sweetness of bananas, these bars provide a balanced meal that keeps you energized throughout your day.
One of the best things about these breakfast bars is their versatility. You can easily customize them to suit your taste preferences. Whether you prefer walnuts, pecans, or even a sprinkle of chocolate chips, the options are endless. This adaptability ensures that you'll never get bored with your breakfast routine, and you can experiment with different flavors each time.
Nutritional Benefits
These Banana Nut Breakfast Bars are a powerhouse of nutrition. The rolled oats serve as a fantastic source of fiber, which aids digestion and keeps you feeling full longer. Whole wheat flour adds additional nutrients, including protein and vitamins, making these bars a wholesome choice for breakfast or a snack.
Bananas are rich in potassium, which is essential for heart health and muscle function. Coupled with the healthy fats from the nuts, these bars provide a balanced mix of carbohydrates, protein, and fats, making them a perfect fuel for your day. Plus, using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup means you can enjoy a touch of sweetness without the guilt.
Meal Prep Made Easy
One of the greatest advantages of these Banana Nut Breakfast Bars is their make-ahead convenience. You can whip up a batch on the weekend and have a healthy breakfast option ready for the entire week. Simply store them in an airtight container, and you’ll have a nutritious snack on hand whenever you need it.
These bars are also incredibly portable, making them a great option for busy individuals or families on the go. Whether you're heading to work, school, or the gym, grabbing one of these bars will save you time and keep you satisfied until your next meal. Enjoy them with a cup of coffee or a piece of fruit for a complete breakfast on the run.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl until well combined.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, combine the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
Prepare Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix the mashed bananas, honey (or maple syrup), applesauce, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Combine Mixtures
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Gently fold in the chopped nuts.
Bake the Bars
Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cool and Slice
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.
Enjoy your delicious Banana Nut Breakfast Bars as a healthy snack or breakfast option!
Storage Tips
To maintain the freshness of your Banana Nut Breakfast Bars, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you want to keep them for longer, consider freezing them. Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months and thawed overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy them.
Labeling your containers with dates can also help you keep track of freshness. Remember to allow the bars to cool completely before storing them to avoid any condensation, which could lead to sogginess.
Serving Suggestions
These Banana Nut Breakfast Bars can be enjoyed on their own, but you can also elevate your breakfast experience by pairing them with yogurt or a side of fresh fruit. A dollop of Greek yogurt adds protein, while berries or sliced bananas bring extra flavor and nutrition to your meal.
For a special touch, try drizzling a bit of almond butter or peanut butter on top of your bars before serving. This not only enhances the taste but also adds a creamy texture that complements the chewiness of the bars. It's a delightful way to enjoy your breakfast while ensuring you get a balanced start to your day.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
→ How should I store the bars?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
→ Can I freeze these breakfast bars?
Absolutely! They freeze well. Just wrap them individually and store in a freezer-safe bag.
→ What nuts can I use?
You can use any nuts you like, such as walnuts, pecans, or even almonds.
Banana Nut Breakfast Bars
These Banana Nut Breakfast Bars are a delightful way to start your day, blending wholesome ingredients with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas.
Created by: Anna
Recipe Type: Fresh & Wholesome Recipes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 12 bars
What You'll Need
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
In a bowl, combine the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
In another bowl, mix the mashed bananas, honey (or maple syrup), applesauce, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Gently fold in the chopped nuts.
Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 25g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 3g