Baked Oatmeal Bars Recipe

If you’re looking for a breakfast that feels like a treat but is secretly wholesome, you’re going to fall head over heels for these Baked Oatmeal Bars. They’re sweetened with banana and a drizzle of maple syrup, punctuated by hearty oats, and offer just the right amount of chew and heartiness to keep you satisfied all morning. Perfect for busy weekdays, lazy Sundays, or anytime you want a nourishing snack, these bars are a make-ahead marvel you’ll want in your regular rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed by how much flavor and texture these simple, straightforward ingredients deliver. Each one plays a special role, whether lending natural sweetness, hearty bite, or just the right bit of richness.

• Rolled oats: The star of Baked Oatmeal Bars, creating that unmistakable chewy texture and nutty flavor.
• Mashed banana: Naturally sweet and moist, bananas bind the bars and infuse them with irresistible flavor (swap if needed for a banana-free version).
• Water: Helps to hydrate the oats and keep everything tender.
• Salt: Just a little amplifies all the other flavors, making these bars truly delectable.
• Maple syrup, agave, honey, or stevia: Adds sweetness while letting you choose your favorite touch, depending on your preference.
• Oil, nut butter, or extra water: For richness and softness; nut butter brings a lovely flavor, while oil keeps things classic.
• Vanilla extract: Rounds everything out with warm, cozy undertones.
• Optional add-ins (chocolate chips, chopped nuts, etc.): The perfect final flourish for added texture and pockets of extra delight.

How to Make Baked Oatmeal Bars

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350 F. Grab an 8-inch baking pan and either line it with parchment paper or give it a thorough greasing. This step makes removing your bars effortless and ensures not a single crumb sticks behind!

Step 2: Mix Up the Batter

Grab a large mixing bowl and combine your rolled oats, mashed banana, water, salt, sweetener of choice, oil or nut butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything looks well mixed and the oats are evenly moistened. If you’re feeling adventurous, gently fold in a handful of chocolate chips or chopped nuts. The mixture should be thick but evenly combined.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Pour and smooth the oatmeal mixture into your prepped pan, making sure it’s spread evenly from edge to edge. Sprinkle on your chosen toppings—chocolate chips will melt into glossy puddles, while nuts toast up buttery and delicious. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 20 minutes to let everything set.

Step 4: Let Them Rest in the Warm Oven

Once the timer goes off, turn off your oven but resist the urge to open the door. Let the Baked Oatmeal Bars sit undisturbed for another 5 minutes. This little trick finishes the baking process gently so your bars hold together beautifully when sliced.

Step 5: Cool and Slice

Take your pan out of the oven and allow it to cool on a rack for at least 10 minutes. Once cooled, remove the bars (parchment makes this easy) and carefully slice into portions. You’ll love how tidy the bars are—and how incredible your kitchen smells!

How to Serve Baked Oatmeal Bars

Garnishes

For an extra-special touch, dust your bars with a bit of powdered sugar, a pinch of cinnamon, or a drizzle of extra melted nut butter. Fresh berries or a dollop of Greek yogurt also bring a lovely, refreshing contrast.

Side Dishes

Pair these Baked Oatmeal Bars with a glass of cold milk, a warm mug of coffee, or your favorite smoothie for a breakfast that truly feels complete. If you’re serving brunch, add a colorful fruit salad or a side of scrambled eggs to make it a meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try wrapping individual bars in parchment and twine for grab-and-go snacks, or stack them on a pretty platter for a brunch spread. You could even cut bars into festive shapes with cookie cutters—kids absolutely love this playful twist!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator; they’ll stay delicious and chewy for three to four days. I recommend placing a piece of parchment between layers to keep them from sticking together.

Freezing

Baked Oatmeal Bars are fabulously freezer-friendly! Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap or pop them into a resealable bag, and freeze for up to three months. When you need a quick breakfast or snack, just grab and go!

Reheating

To enjoy a warm bar, either microwave it on medium for 15-20 seconds or pop it into a toaster oven until heated through. This little warm-up brings back that fresh-from-the-oven magic and wakes up the banana and oat flavors.

FAQs

Can I make these Baked Oatmeal Bars gluten free?

Absolutely! Just be sure to use certified gluten free oats, and you’ll have a breakfast bar that’s perfectly safe for anyone avoiding gluten.

What can I use instead of banana?

If bananas aren’t your thing (or you’re fresh out), try using applesauce, pumpkin puree, or even mashed sweet potato. These swaps will still bind the bars and add gentle sweetness.

Can I double the recipe?

Definitely! Just bake in a 9×13-inch pan, adding 5 to 10 minutes to your bake time. Keep an eye out; you want them set and golden.

How do I make them nut free?

Skip the nut butter and stick to oil or additional water for moisture. And, of course, leave out any nut toppings—try seeds or coconut instead!

Can I add protein powder?

You sure can! Add a scoop of your favorite protein powder to the dry ingredients. Just add a splash more liquid if the mixture seems too thick.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a meal prep maven or just want a fuss-free, nourishing breakfast, give these Baked Oatmeal Bars a try. They’re so flexible, wholesome, and downright delicious, you’ll find yourself baking them again and again—and probably sharing the recipe with everyone you know!

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