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Irresistible Chewy Banana Oatmeal Cranberry Bars

Irresistible Chewy Banana Oatmeal Cranberry Bars You’ll Love

These Irresistible Chewy Banana Oatmeal Cranberry Bars are a delicious blend of ripe bananas, oats, cranberries, and chocolate, perfect for quick, healthy snacking.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 3 Ripe Bananas Adds natural sweetness and moisture; use bananas with brown spots for optimal flavor.
  • 2 cups Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats Provides structure and a hearty texture; avoid instant oats.
  • 1 cup Dried Cranberries Offers a tart contrast to the sweetness; unsweetened varieties are best.
  • 1 cup Chocolate Chips Choose semi-sweet, dark, or milk chocolate based on your preference.
  • 1/2 cup Pumpkin Seeds (Pepitas) Adds crunch and nutritional value.
For Sweetness and Flavor
  • 1/3 cup Honey or Maple Syrup Natural sweeteners that enhance flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Baking Powder A leavening agent for light and fluffy bars.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Salt Elevates the overall flavor profile.
  • 1 teaspoon Cinnamon Compliments the banana well.

Equipment

  • 8x8-inch baking dish
  • Mixing bowls
  • masher

Method
 

How to Make Irresistible Chewy Banana Oatmeal Cranberry Bars
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8×8-inch baking dish by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, mash together three ripe bananas until they are smooth but not soupy.
  3. In a separate bowl, combine old-fashioned rolled oats, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, dried cranberries, chocolate chips, and pumpkin seeds. Stir everything together until well mixed.
  4. In your bowl of mashed bananas, mix in honey or maple syrup until fully incorporated.
  5. Gradually fold the dry mix into the banana mixture, being careful not to overmix.
  6. Carefully pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown.
  7. Allow the baked bars to cool in the dish before cutting them into squares.

Notes

For extra indulgence, drizzle with melted dark chocolate after cooling.