After a long week filled with takeout and fast food, I found myself yearning for something warm and nourishing—something that made me feel grounded and satisfied. That’s when I decided to dive into my kitchen, where the inviting smell of ripe bananas inspired a delightful creation.
These Vegan Banana Bread Oatmeal Bars with Cinnamon Crumb are my new go-to treat. They combine the comforting flavors of banana bread with the wholesome goodness of oats, and the addition of a cinnamon crumb topping? Pure bliss! Best of all, they’re perfect for meal prep, ensuring I have a delicious and nutritious snack ready for those busy mornings.
With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is ideal for anyone looking to escape the monotony of fast food. Trust me—you won’t believe how easy it is to whip up these bars that are not only delightful to the senses but also entirely guilt-free! Let’s turn those ripe bananas into something magical!
Why Vegan Banana Bread Oatmeal Bars Are Incredible?
Wholesome Goodness: Packed with oats, bananas, and healthy fats, these bars offer nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can have fresh bars ready in no time.
Versatile Snack: Perfect for breakfast, an afternoon pick-me-up, or post-workout fuel.
Guilt-Free Indulgence: Enjoy the rich, satisfying taste of banana bread with none of the guilt.
Meal Prep Magic: Make a batch at the start of the week, and you’ll have a delicious snack for days!
Don’t miss the chance to elevate your snack game with these incredible Vegan Banana Bread Oatmeal Bars with Cinnamon Crumb!
Vegan Banana Bread Oatmeal Bars Ingredients
For the Base
• 2 very ripe bananas – The more ripe they are, the sweeter and more flavorful your bars will be!
• 1/4 cup maple syrup – Adds natural sweetness; feel free to substitute with agave syrup if needed.
• 2 tablespoons almond butter – Provides creaminess and a boost of healthy fats.
• 1 cup non-dairy milk – Use your favorite plant-based milk to keep it vegan.
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor for a warm, comforting taste.
• 2 cups old fashioned oats – The heart of these bars, offering structure and health benefits.
• ¼ cup almond flour – For a bit of nutty flavor; can be swapped out for oat flour if you prefer.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps give the bars a nice lift as they bake.
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon – Brings that cozy, aromatic flavor synonymous with banana bread!
• ¼ teaspoon salt – Enhances the sweetness of the bars for a balanced flavor.
• ¼ cup chopped nuts – Adds crunch; walnuts, pecans, or almonds work beautifully!
• 2 tablespoons shredded coconut (optional) – For a tropical flair if you’re feeling adventurous!
• 2 teaspoons chia seeds – Boosts fiber and omega-3 content; they also help bind the mixture.
• 3-4 dates (chopped) – These add extra natural sweetness; consider soaking them for ease of chopping.
For the Topping
• 1 tablespoon coconut sugar – A great alternative to regular sugar with a hint of caramel flavor.
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon – A lovely echo of the spice used in the bars, layered for more flavor.
• 1 ripe banana (sliced, 2 mm thick slices) – This fresh addition on top caramelizes beautifully while baking!
With these wholesome Vegan Banana Bread Oatmeal Bars ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delightful snack that makes healthy eating a joy!
How to Make Vegan Banana Bread Oatmeal Bars
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Grease the Pan: Lightly grease a 9×9 inch brownie pan or lasagna pan to ensure your bars come out easily after baking.
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Mash Bananas: In a mixing bowl, mash the 2 very ripe bananas and ¼ cup maple syrup together until smooth. Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared pan.
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Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (180°C) and bake the banana mixture for about 12 minutes, or until it begins to simmer and bubble.
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Mix in Nut Butter: Carefully remove the dish from the oven and stir in 2 tablespoons almond butter until well combined. Then add 1 cup non-dairy milk and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
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Add Dry Ingredients: Next, fold in the 2 cups old fashioned oats, ¼ cup almond flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon salt, ¼ cup chopped nuts, 2 teaspoons chia seeds, and 3-4 chopped dates. Stir until the oats are evenly moistened and the mixture is well combined.
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Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon coconut sugar and ½ teaspoon cinnamon. Slice 1 ripe banana into thin rounds and place the slices on top of the oat mixture, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar evenly over.
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Bake the Bars: Place the dish back in the oven and bake for 35-45 minutes. The bars are ready when the top is set and the banana slices begin to caramelize.
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Cool and Slice: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for 20 to 25 minutes. Carefully slice into bars and remove them from the dish.
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Store Bars: These delicious bars can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days, making them a perfect snack for busy weeks ahead.
Optional: Top with a dollop of almond butter for an extra creamy treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Vegan Banana Bread Oatmeal Bars Variations & Substitutions
Looking to put your creative spin on these delicious bars? Here are some fun ideas to inspire you!
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Nut-Free: Replace almond butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option that’s equally tasty.
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Gluten-Free: Swap old-fashioned oats and almond flour for certified gluten-free oats and a mix of rice flour.
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Extra Fruity: Add 1/2 cup of blueberries or chopped strawberries to the mix for a burst of fresh flavor!
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Spice It Up: Introduce a hint of nutmeg or allspice for a deeper, more complex flavor profile that dances on your taste buds.
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Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Toss in some vegan chocolate chips for a decadent treat that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
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Coconut Bliss: Use coconut milk instead of non-dairy milk and add 1/4 cup toasted coconut for a tropical twist that’s oh-so-good!
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Protein Boost: Stir in a scoop of plant-based protein powder to enhance nutrition without compromising taste.
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Cinnamon Roll Twist: Drizzle a simple glaze of powdered sugar and almond milk on top after cooling for an indulgent cinnamon roll experience.
With these delightful variations, you can create a scrumptious version of Vegan Banana Bread Oatmeal Bars that suits your taste buds perfectly!
Make Ahead Options
These Vegan Banana Bread Oatmeal Bars with Cinnamon Crumb are fantastic for meal prep, making your busy mornings a breeze! You can prepare the banana and maple syrup mixture up to 24 hours ahead—simply mash the bananas, mix in the syrup, and refrigerate it. Additionally, you can combine all the dry ingredients, such as oats, almond flour, and spices, up to 3 days in advance. When you’re ready to bake, take the prepared mixture out of the fridge, stir in the remaining wet ingredients, pour it into your greased pan, and finish with the toppings before baking. This way, you’ll enjoy fresh and delicious bars that are just as delightful as if you made them from scratch that day!
What to Serve with Vegan Banana Bread Oatmeal Bars?
These wholesome banana oat bars create delightful moments, especially when paired with refreshing and satisfying companions.
- Creamy Yogurt: A dollop of coconut or almond yogurt adds a rich creaminess that balances the sweet, hearty bars.
- Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or blueberries bring a burst of freshness that enhances the banana flavor beautifully.
- Nutty Granola: A sprinkle of your favorite granola provides a satisfying crunch, along with extra texture and flavor.
- Herbal Tea: A warm cup of chamomile or peppermint tea offers a soothing contrast to the bars, perfect for a cozy afternoon treat.
- Nut Butter Spread: Slather on some almond or peanut butter for an extra layer of richness and protein, making for a filling snack.
- Dark Chocolate Drizzle: For those who seek indulgence, a drizzle of melted dark chocolate adds a luscious touch that pairs wonderfully.
- Banana Smoothie: Blend up a banana smoothie with almond milk and spinach for a wholesome drink that complements the bars.
- Cold Brew Coffee: Enjoy with a refreshing cold brew coffee for an energizing kick that enhances the flavors of the bars.
Each of these pairings elevates the experience of the Vegan Banana Bread Oatmeal Bars, making for a delightful and satisfying spread!
Expert Tips for Vegan Banana Bread Oatmeal Bars
Ripe Bananas: Use very ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and flavor; they give these bars a deliciously moist texture.
Mix Well: Make sure to mix in the almond butter and non-dairy milk thoroughly before adding dry ingredients to avoid clumps.
Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the baking time; overbaking can lead to dry bars. The top should be set and slightly golden.
Nut Options: Feel free to experiment with different chopped nuts; walnuts, pecans, or even chocolate chips can elevate your Vegan Banana Bread Oatmeal Bars!
Cool Time: Allow the bars to cool for at least 20-25 minutes before slicing; this helps them set and makes them easier to remove from the pan.
How to Store and Freeze Vegan Banana Bread Oatmeal Bars
Fridge: Store the bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This keeps them fresh and maintains their delightful texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bars by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the bars in the fridge overnight or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds for a warm, savory treat!
Reheating: If desired, warm the bars in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or until heated through, for a cozy snack that brings back the freshly baked flavors of your Vegan Banana Bread Oatmeal Bars.
Vegan Banana Bread Oatmeal Bars Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting bananas?
Absolutely! For these bars, you want to use very ripe bananas. Look for bananas with lots of brown spots or even ones that are fully brown. The riper they are, the sweeter and more flavorful your bars will turn out!
How should I store my Vegan Banana Bread Oatmeal Bars?
I recommend storing the bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This method keeps them fresh and maintains that delightful chewy texture. Just make sure to let them cool completely first to avoid moisture buildup.
Can I freeze these bars?
Very much! To freeze your Vegan Banana Bread Oatmeal Bars, wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy one, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight or microwave for 10-15 seconds for a warm treat!
What if my mixture seems too dry?
No worries at all! If your mixture appears too dry before baking, consider adding a splash more non-dairy milk to moisten it. Mix it in gradually until you get a consistency that holds together but isn’t watery. Sometimes the oats can absorb different amounts of liquid based on their freshness.
Are these bars suitable for pets or specific allergies?
Good question! While the ingredients in the Vegan Banana Bread Oatmeal Bars are safe for humans, it’s best to keep them away from pets, particularly the chocolate if used, as it can be harmful. Additionally, always check for any nut allergies, especially if you’re using almond butter or nuts. If needed, you can substitute with seed butters!
Are there any alternatives I can use for almond butter?
Absolutely! If almond butter isn’t your favorite or if there are allergy concerns, you can easily swap it out for peanut butter or sunflower seed butter. Both will lend a lovely nutty flavor to your bars while keeping them moist and satisfying!
Vegan Banana Bread Oatmeal Bars with Cinnamon Crumb Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Grease a 9x9 inch brownie pan or lasagna pan to ensure your bars come out easily after baking.
- Mash the 2 very ripe bananas and 1/4 cup maple syrup together until smooth. Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared pan.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and bake the banana mixture for about 12 minutes, or until it begins to simmer and bubble.
- Carefully remove the dish from the oven and stir in 2 tablespoons almond butter until well combined. Add 1 cup non-dairy milk and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
- Fold in the 2 cups old fashioned oats, 1/4 cup almond flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/4 cup chopped nuts, 2 teaspoons chia seeds, and 3-4 chopped dates. Stir until well combined.
- In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon coconut sugar and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. Slice 1 ripe banana into thin rounds and place the slices on top of the oat mixture, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar evenly over.
- Place the dish back in the oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, until the top is set and banana slices begin to caramelize.
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for 20-25 minutes. Carefully slice into bars and remove them from the dish.
- These delicious bars can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days, making them a perfect snack for busy weeks ahead.
