Name: healthy baked oatmeal bars
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups; 1 1/3 cup; 6 tbsp; 1/2 tsp; 3 tbsp; 3 tbsp; 1 tsp; Chocolate chips, chopped nuts, etc.

Jump to Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for an easy breakfast or snack that’s as wholesome as it is delicious, these Baked Oatmeal Bars will hit the spot every time! This Delicious Recipe is perfect for meal prep and totally customizable, with the ability to swap in your favorite add-ins or adapt for dietary needs. The bars are satisfyingly soft and chewy, naturally sweetened, and packed with comforting flavors that will make you look forward to mornings (or snack time) again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed at how a handful of basic pantry staples come together to create something truly crave-worthy. Each ingredient in this Delicious Recipe plays a special role, balancing taste, moisture, sweetness, and texture for bars you’ll want to make again and again.

Rolled oats: These form the hearty, chewy base and are the star of this Delicious Recipe for baked bars.
Mashed banana: Adds natural sweetness and moisture; you can sub with more oats if you want banana-free bars.
Water: Keeps the mixture from drying out, ensuring the bars bake up tender.
Salt: Just a touch to enhance and balance all the flavors.
Pure maple syrup, agave, honey, or stevia: Whichever you choose, each version adds a wonderful, subtle sweetness.
Oil, nut butter, or additional water: A splash of fat gives softness; choose your favorite, or keep it completely oil-free.
Pure vanilla extract: Brings a warm, cozy aroma and rounds out the oat and banana flavors.
Optional chocolate chips, chopped nuts, etc.: Sprinkle these on top for a tasty twist or welcome crunch in every bite.

How to Make Delicious Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Pan and Oven

To start, preheat your oven to 350 F. This temperature gives you a perfect bake: cooked through but not dried out. Line an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper, or give it a generous grease with your oil of choice. Prepping the pan ensures your bars come out effortlessly and keep their beautiful shape.

Step 2: Mix Everything Together

In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, mashed banana, water, salt, sweetener, oil (or nut butter), and vanilla extract. Don’t be afraid to really get in there and make sure everything’s well combined—the oats should be thoroughly coated, and the banana evenly distributed. If you’re in the mood for chocolate chips or nuts, now’s the time to toss them in!

Step 3: Spread and Top

Pour the oatmeal mixture into your prepared pan and use a spatula to smooth out the top so it’s even from corner to corner. This step helps the bars bake up uniformly, making them easier to slice later. For an extra treat, sprinkle a handful of chocolate chips or crunchy nuts on top right before baking.

Step 4: Bake the Oatmeal Bars

Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 20 minutes. For that perfect texture, once the timer rings, don’t open the oven yet—just turn it off and let the bars rest inside for an extra 5 minutes. This gentle finish allows the bars to firm up without becoming dry or overbaked. When you take them out, let them cool before slicing into bars.

How to Serve healthy baked oatmeal bars

Garnishes

Dress up your bars with a drizzle of maple syrup, a dusting of cinnamon, or even a swipe of nut butter across the top. If you want a bit of color, scatter some fresh berries or a light sprinkle of coconut flakes for a pretty and flavorful finish.

Side Dishes

Pair your Delicious Recipe oatmeal bars with a creamy Greek yogurt and a handful of fresh fruit for a wonderfully balanced breakfast. For a heartier morning, try serving them alongside a hot cup of coffee or chai tea—simple, satisfying, and oh-so-cozy!

Creative Ways to Present

Cut your bars into fun shapes using cookie cutters for lunchbox treats or make an oatmeal bar parfait by layering chunks with yogurt and fruit in a jar. Arrange on a platter with bowls of various toppings so everyone can customize their bar—ideal for brunches or casual gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay fresh for up to 3–4 days. The texture stays pleasantly chewy, and the flavors continue to meld, making each bite just as good as the first.

Freezing

To freeze, let the bars cool completely, then wrap individual portions tightly and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep beautifully for a few months—just thaw in the fridge or at room temperature whenever cravings strike.

Reheating

For that out-of-the-oven experience, gently reheat the bars in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds. You can also pop them in a toaster oven for a couple of minutes to re-crisp the edges and warm up the middle.

FAQs

Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?

You can, but the texture will be a bit softer and less chewy. Rolled oats really give these bars their signature heartiness, but if instant is what you have on hand, go for it—just keep an eye on the bake time as they may cook a bit faster.

What can I use instead of banana?

If you prefer to go banana-free, simply increase the oats and a touch more sweetener, as mentioned in this Delicious Recipe adaptation. Applesauce, pumpkin puree, or even yogurt can also work as great swaps for moisture and flavor.

Is it possible to make this Delicious Recipe oil-free?

Absolutely! Use additional water or try a generous scoop of your favorite nut or seed butter for a healthy, oil-free version that’s just as moist and delicious.

How do I know when the oatmeal bars are done?

The top should look set and slightly golden at the edges. Remember, leaving the bars in the hot oven for an extra five minutes with the heat off is key for the perfect soft-but-set texture.

Can I double the batch?

Definitely! Just use a 9×13-inch pan and keep an eye on the baking time—it may need a few extra minutes. A double batch is always a good idea when everyone loves this Delicious Recipe as much as my friends and family do!

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re baking for yourself, your family, or anyone who could use a tasty boost of energy, these Baked Oatmeal Bars are sure to be a new favorite. It’s such a joy to share this Delicious Recipe with you—so go ahead, give it a try, and get creative with your own twists. Don’t be surprised if everyone starts asking for the recipe!

healthy baked oatmeal bars

★★★★★

4.8 from 25 reviews

Author: Chloe
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 12 bars 1x
Diet: Vegan

Print Recipe

Description

Delicious and healthy baked oatmeal bars that are perfect for a quick breakfast or snack. These bars are vegan and can be customized with your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts.

Ingredients

Scale

Rolled Oats:

2 cups

Mashed Banana:

1 1/3 cup

Water:

6 tbsp

Salt:

1/2 tsp

Pure Maple Syrup, Agave, or Honey OR Stevia Equivalent:

3 tbsp

Oil, Nut Butter, or Additional Water: