When the morning rush begins, I often find myself rummaging through the pantry for a quick pick-me-up that won’t derail my health goals. One day, I decided enough was enough and created these Soft-Baked Oatmeal Breakfast Bars with Peanut Butter and Banana. They are a game changer! With their tender, chewy texture and the harmonious blend of nutty peanut butter, ripe banana, and a drizzle of honey, these bars deliver both satisfaction and nourishment.
Not only are they irresistibly tasty, but they also come together in no time, making them a perfect companion for busy mornings or an afternoon snack. Letting you skip the drive-thru in favor of homemade goodness, these bars will keep both you and your little ones fueled throughout the day. Join me in making this wholesome treat that effortlessly balances ease and flavor, turning breakfast into a delightful experience!
Why will you love these Breakfast Bars?
Nourishing Powerhouse: These breakfast bars are packed with wholesome ingredients that provide a nutritious start to your day.
Effortless Preparation: Whip them up in just one bowl! No elaborate steps or fancy equipment needed.
Perfectly Portable: Easy to grab and go, making them ideal for busy mornings or snacks on the run.
Kid-Friendly Delight: The sweet flavors of peanut butter and banana will please even the pickiest eaters.
Customizable Goodness: Enjoy endless variations! Add nuts, switch nut butters, or mix in chocolate chips for extra fun.
Make Ahead Magic: These bars store beautifully, allowing you to prep for a week of nutritious breakfasts with ease.
Breakfast Bars Ingredients
For the Bars
• Old fashioned rolled oats – The base ingredient providing fiber and chew; quick oats may change the texture.
• Whole wheat flour – Adds structure and fiber; oat flour or almond flour can be used for a gluten-free option.
• Ground cinnamon – Offers a warm flavor; nutmeg can be an alternative for a different spice profile.
• Baking powder – This leavening agent helps the bars rise; make sure it’s fresh for best results.
• Kosher salt – Enhances overall flavor; regular salt works as a suitable substitute.
• Milk – Adds moisture and softness; feel free to use any variety, dairy or non-dairy.
• Honey – A natural sweetener that brings flavor and moisture; use maple syrup for a vegan option.
• Peanut butter – Delivers creaminess and protein; substitute with almond butter or sunbutter for a nut-free alternative.
• Unsweetened applesauce – Serves as a binder and moisture source; can be swapped with mashed bananas or pumpkin puree.
• Large egg – Binds ingredients and adds richness; replace with a flax egg for a vegan version.
• Medium banana – Provides natural sweetness and moisture; you can use pureed pumpkin if desired.
How to Make Soft-Baked Breakfast Bars
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly coat an 8×8 inch square baking pan with cooking spray. This step ensures your bars come out easily without sticking.
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Mix in a medium bowl the old fashioned rolled oats, whole wheat flour, ground cinnamon, baking powder, and kosher salt. Stir until everything is evenly combined, creating a dry mixture that sets the foundation for your bars.
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Combine in a larger bowl the milk, unsweetened applesauce, large egg, honey, peanut butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk these wet ingredients together until smooth and creamy, adding delightful moisture and flavor.
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Blend the dry ingredients with the wet mixture; the batter will be quite wet. It’s totally normal, and this moisture will contribute to the soft texture of your bars.
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Fold in the diced medium banana gently into the batter, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Then, pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan, smoothing out the top for even baking.
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Bake for 35 minutes or until set and golden, checking with a toothpick that it comes out clean. You want a lovely golden hue, indicating that the bars are perfectly cooked.
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Cool the bars in the pan for about 10 minutes, then cut into squares and store as desired. Enjoy the aroma wafting through your kitchen as you wait!
Optional: Drizzle with extra honey before serving for a touch of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Breakfast Bars
Fridge: Store your cooled breakfast bars wrapped in plastic or an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, ensuring they remain fresh and delicious.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individually wrapped bars in a ziptop bag for up to 4 months. Thaw at room temperature or in the microwave for a quick snack.
Room Temperature: Although not recommended for extended storage, you can keep them at room temperature for up to 2 days if they’re well-wrapped.
Reheating: For a warm treat, reheat bars in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, bringing back that soft, freshly-baked texture.
What to Serve with Soft-Baked Oatmeal Breakfast Bars?
These delightful bars offer a warm hug of flavor and nourishment, making them perfect for any time you need a boost.
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Greek Yogurt: The creamy tang of Greek yogurt pairs beautifully with the sweet bars and adds a protein punch for extra energy.
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Fresh Fruit: Bright, juicy berries or sliced apples add a refreshing contrast and natural sweetness, enhancing the wholesome experience.
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Nut Butter Drizzle: A splash of almond or extra peanut butter on top elevates the bars’ rich flavor, perfect for nut lovers seeking indulgence.
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Smoothie: Whip up a berry or banana smoothie for a refreshing drink that complements the oatmeal bars’ heartiness while keeping breakfast balanced.
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Chia Seed Pudding: This nutrient-packed pudding adds a delightful crunch alongside the softness of the bars, creating a textural contrast that’s equally healthy.
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Herbal Tea or Coffee: Enjoying your bars with a calming herbal tea or rich coffee can transform your breakfast into a cozy ritual, perfect for slow mornings.
With this array of delicious pairings, you’ll create a balanced meal that satisfies both the heart and the soul!
Breakfast Bars Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with these breakfast bars and make them your own with just a few simple tweaks!
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Nut-Free Option: Use sunbutter instead of peanut butter to keep these bars safe for nut allergies while still enjoying creaminess.
Perfect for schools and playdates, this ensures everyone can indulge without worries. -
Vegan Friendly: Replace honey with maple syrup and use a flax egg to keep these bars 100% plant-based.
The sweet, earthy notes from maple will complement the banana beautifully while being suitable for all diets. -
Gluten-Free Delight: Substitute whole wheat flour with oat flour or almond flour for a gluten-free alternative.
Just keep an eye on the texture; it may be a touch denser but still deliciously satisfying! -
Fruit Explosion: Add dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for a burst of sweetness and chew.
Not only will they add natural sweetness, but they also bring a delightful chewy texture to each bite. -
Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Mix in mini chocolate chips for a sweet touch that’ll have kids (and adults!) begging for seconds.
These little bites of chocolate add a richer, decadent flavor to your breakfast. -
Cinnamon Spiced: Swap out ground cinnamon for nutmeg for a warm, inviting spin on the original recipe.
It brings a different spice profile, adding depth while keeping that cozy essence intact. -
Pumpkin Version: Use pumpkin puree in place of applesauce for a festive fall twist full of flavor and moisture.
This variation offers a seasonal vibe, perfect for those chilly mornings that call for something special. -
Protein Punch: Stir in a scoop of your favorite protein powder to make this breakfast even more satisfying.
This small tweak ensures you start your day full of energy, making these bars a post-workout choice too!
Expert Tips for Soft-Baked Breakfast Bars
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Fresh Ingredients: Always check your baking powder and spices for freshness; stale ingredients can lead to less-than-ideal texture in your breakfast bars.
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Avoid Overmixing: Mix the dry and wet ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense bars rather than the desired soft, chewy texture.
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Custom Add-Ins: Consider adding nuts, seeds, or dark chocolate chips, but keep an eye on the sugar content—these bars are already sweet enough!
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Watch Baking Time: Every oven is different; start checking your bars a few minutes before the recommended baking time to prevent over-baking.
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Storage Tricks: For maximum freshness, wrap your cooled bars individually in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator or freezer for longer shelf-life.
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Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to swap the nut butter or sweeteners to find your perfect flavor combination—there are endless possibilities with these breakfast bars!
Make Ahead Options
These Soft-Baked Oatmeal Breakfast Bars are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can mix the dry ingredients (old fashioned rolled oats, whole wheat flour, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt) up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Additionally, you can prepare the wet mixture (milk, applesauce, egg, honey, peanut butter, and vanilla) and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the prepared dry and wet ingredients, fold in the diced banana, and bake as instructed. These steps ensure that your morning prep is quick and hassle-free, yielding wholesome breakfast bars that are just as delicious as when made fresh!
Soft-Baked Oatmeal Breakfast Bars Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right bananas for the bars?
Absolutely! Look for bananas that are ripe but not overripe. A banana with some brown spots provides the perfect natural sweetness and moisture needed for these breakfast bars. On the flip side, avoid bananas with dark spots all over as they can be overly mushy and may alter the texture of your bars.
What’s the best way to store my breakfast bars?
I recommend wrapping your cooled breakfast bars in plastic or placing them in an airtight container. You can keep them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days for optimal freshness and flavor. If you want to make them last longer, consider freezing them!
Can I freeze these breakfast bars, and if so, how?
Yes, you can! To freeze, individually wrap each bar in plastic wrap and then place them in a ziptop bag, ensuring all air is removed. They’ll stay fresh for up to 4 months. When you’re ready to enjoy one, simply thaw at room temperature or heat it in the microwave for a quick, satisfying snack.
What if my breakfast bars turn out too dry?
If your bars end up a bit dry, it could be due to overbaking or using drier ingredients. Always make sure to check for doneness a few minutes before the suggested bake time. For a softer bar, you can try adding an extra tablespoon of applesauce or banana next time!
Are these bars safe for gluten-free diets?
Certainly! To make these breakfast bars gluten-free, simply substitute the whole wheat flour with oat flour or almond flour. Keep in mind, the texture may vary slightly, but they’ll still taste delicious! Always check your oats and other ingredients to ensure they are certified gluten-free.
Can I add other ingredients like nuts or chocolate chips?
Very! Feel free to customize your breakfast bars with nuts, seeds, or mini chocolate chips for added flavor and crunch. Just be mindful of the sugar content from the chocolate, as these bars are naturally sweetened already. Enjoy experimenting to find your perfect combo!
Soft-Baked Breakfast Bars for a Wholesome Morning Boost
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly coat an 8x8 inch square baking pan with cooking spray.
- Mix in a medium bowl the old fashioned rolled oats, whole wheat flour, ground cinnamon, baking powder, and kosher salt.
- Combine in a larger bowl the milk, unsweetened applesauce, large egg, honey, peanut butter, and vanilla extract.
- Blend the dry ingredients with the wet mixture.
- Fold in the diced medium banana gently into the batter.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and smooth out the top.
- Bake for 35 minutes or until set and golden.
- Cool the bars in the pan for about 10 minutes, then cut into squares and store.