Banana Oat Bars

Ingredients

• Ripe bananas (3 large)
• Rolled oats (2 cups)
• Almond butter (1/2 cup)
• Honey (1/4 cup)
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon)
• Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon)
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon)
• Optional toppings (chocolate chips, chopped nuts, dried fruits) (1/2 cup)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
2. In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the rolled oats, almond butter, honey, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt to the mashed bananas. Stir until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
4. If desired, fold in optional toppings such as chocolate chips for a sweet treat, chopped nuts for added crunch, or dried fruits for a chewy texture.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and use a spatula to spread it evenly into the corners.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and the center is set.
7. Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool completely in the baking dish on a wire rack before lifting it out using the parchment overhang.
8. Cut into bars and enjoy as a healthy snack or a quick breakfast option. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.