Healthy Cocoa Banana Bars with Rolled Oats for Anytime Snacking
Whip up these quick and easy Cocoa Banana Oat Bars for a wholesome snack you can feel good about. Made with ripe bananas, hearty rolled oats, and rich cocoa powder, these bars are soft, naturally sweet, and perfect for busy mornings or afternoon cravings. With optional add-ins like dark chocolate chips and nuts, they’re fully customizable and packed with energy-boosting nutrients.
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 ½ cups rolled oats
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ cup dark chocolate chips or chunks (optional)
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts or almonds (optional)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, mash the bananas until smooth.
Add rolled oats, cocoa powder, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until everything is well combined.
Fold in chocolate chips and chopped nuts if using.
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions onto the prepared baking sheet and flatten them slightly.
Bake for 12–15 minutes or until the edges are set and cookies are firm to the touch.
Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
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se overripe bananas for the best flavor and moisture.
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For vegan version, use maple syrup instead of honey.
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Storage tip: Keep in the fridge or freeze for grab-and-go snacks.
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Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth.
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For a nut-free version, omit nuts and use sunflower seed butter if needed.