Raspberry Banana Oatmeal Bars

Raspberry Banana Oatmeal Bars made with oat flour are a delicious and nutritious dessert option. These bars are lower in sugars and incorporate wholesome ingredients like oat flour, making them a healthier choice that can be perfect for breakfast!

What are Raspberry Banana Oatmeal Bars made of?

Here’s a description of each ingredient in the Raspberry Banana Oatmeal Bars recipe:

1. Ripe Bananas: Ripe bananas are the base of the bars, providing natural sweetness, moisture, and flavor. They also contribute to the bars’ tenderness and texture when baked.
2. Coconut Oil: Coconut oil is a plant-based fat used in baking. When melted, it adds moisture and richness to the bars. Additionally, it imparts a subtle coconut flavor to the recipe.
3. Pure Maple Syrup or Honey: Pure maple syrup or honey serves as a natural sweetener, enhancing the sweetness of the bars. You can adjust the amount to achieve your desired level of sweetness.
4. Vanilla Extract: Vanilla extract adds a pleasant, aromatic flavor to the bars, enhancing their overall taste.
5. Almond milk: Milk helps to reach the consistency of the batter.
6. Oat Flour: Oat flour is made by grinding rolled oats into a fine powder. It serves as a gluten-free flour substitute in this recipe, contributing to the structure and texture of the oatmeal bars.
7. Baking Powder: Baking powder is a leavening agent that helps the bars rise and become light and fluffy. It provides the desired lift and texture.
8. Ground Cinnamon (Optional): Ground cinnamon is an optional ingredient that adds warmth and a subtle spice flavor to the bars. Its inclusion enhances the overall taste.
9. Salt: A pinch of salt is used to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavors in the recipe.
10. Fresh Raspberries: Fresh raspberries provide a burst of fruity flavor, tartness, and natural juiciness to the bars.
11. White Chocolate Chips or Drops: White chocolate chips or drops add a creamy, sweet, and indulgent element to the bars. They provide a delightful contrast to the tartness of the raspberries.
12. Cooking Spray or Additional Coconut Oil: Cooking spray or additional coconut oil is used to grease the baking dish, preventing the bars from sticking and aiding in easy removal.

Are raspberry oat bars good for you?

Oatmeal banana raspberry bars can be a nutritious and wholesome snack or breakfast option, depending on their ingredients and how they are prepared. Here are some factors to consider regarding the health benefits of these bars:

Oats: Oats are a primary ingredient in these bars and are known for their health benefits. They are a good source of dietary fiber, which can help support digestive health, regulate blood sugar levels, and promote a feeling of fullness. Oats also provide essential vitamins and minerals, including manganese, phosphorus, and B vitamins.

Bananas: Bananas are naturally sweet and provide important nutrients like potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6. They can add natural sweetness to the bars without the need for excessive added sugars.

Raspberries: Raspberries are rich in antioxidants, including vitamin C and various phytochemicals. They contribute to the overall nutritional value of the bars and add a burst of flavor and color.

Low in Added Sugar: To keep the bars relatively healthy, it’s important to limit added sugars. Rely on the natural sweetness of bananas and raspberries, and use minimal amounts of honey, maple syrup, or other natural sweeteners.

Homemade vs. Store-Bought: Making these bars at home allows you to control the ingredients and ensure they align with your dietary preferences. Commercially made bars may vary in terms of their nutritional quality, so check labels when purchasing.

Oatmeal banana raspberry bars can be a nutritious and balanced snack or breakfast option. They offer dietary fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, especially when whole ingredients are used and added sugars are kept to a minimum. Homemade bars can be customized to suit your nutritional goals and taste preferences.

How to make Oatmeal Raspberry Banana Bars?

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking dish using either cooking spray or a small amount of melted coconut oil.

In a mixing bowl, blend together the mashed bananas, melted coconut oil, pure maple syrup (or honey), almond milk and vanilla extract. Ensure thorough mixing for a well-combined mixture. In a separate bowl, whisk together the oat flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon (if desired), and salt.

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients while stirring until a consistent batter forms. Gently fold the fresh raspberries and white chocolate chips into the batter. Take care not to overmix; the goal is to evenly distribute these ingredients without crushing them.

Pour the batter into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Add some more raspberries and choco chips on top for better appearance.

Place it in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes. Look for golden-brown edges and a toothpick inserted into the center that comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Allow the bar to cool in the baking dish for about 10-15 minutes. This cooling period helps the bars set and hold their shape.

Once sufficiently cooled, cat and serve your delectable Raspberry Banana Bars. Savor the delightful combination of fruity, coconut, and sweet white chocolate flavors!

If you like healthy baking, check out these recipes:

• Healthy Pumpkin Bread
• Healthy Apple Crumble
• Healthy Oatmeal Banana Bread (Gluten-free)
• Healthy Blueberry Lemon Bread