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Oatmeal cookie bars are a fantastic way to enjoy the comforting flavors of traditional cookies, but with an added nutritional punch. Made primarily from rolled oats, bananas, and nut butter, these bars are designed to be both delicious and nourishing. The combination of these ingredients creates a chewy texture that resembles classic cookies while delivering essential nutrients. They are perfect for breakfast on the go, an afternoon snack, or even a post-workout treat.

Guilt-Free Oatmeal Cookie Bars

Discover the joy of indulging with these guilt-free oatmeal cookie bars, a deliciously healthy treat for all! Made from wholesome ingredients like rolled oats, ripe bananas, and almond butter, these bars not only satisfy your sweet cravings but also provide essential nutrients and energy. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or post-workout, they can be customized with your favorite mix-ins. Enjoy a delightful dessert that aligns with your health goals and keeps you feeling good!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups rolled oats

1 cup mashed ripe bananas (approximately 2 medium bananas)

1/2 cup almond butter (or your nut butter of choice)

1/4 cup honey or maple syrup

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (or raisins for a healthier alternative)

1/4 cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans, optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.

    Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Incorporate the almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract into the mashed bananas, mixing well until the mixture is homogeneous.

      Combine Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the rolled oats, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt to the wet ingredients. Stir the mixture until all the dry ingredients are evenly combined and thoroughly mixed into the banana mixture.

        Incorporate Mix-Ins: Gently fold in the dark chocolate chips and, if desired, the chopped nuts. Ensure that these ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the oat mixture, providing a delightful textural contrast.

          Transfer to Pan: Pour the cookie bar mixture into the prepared baking pan. Using a spatula, spread the mixture evenly across the surface. Press down firmly to help the bars maintain their shape during baking.

            Bake: Place the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Watch for the edges to turn a golden brown and to test for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when they are ready.

              Cool and Slice: Once baked, allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang and transfer them to a cutting board. Let them cool completely before slicing into squares or bars.

                Serve: Enjoy these delicious guilt-free oatmeal cookie bars as a wholesome snack or a nutritious dessert! Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerated for extended freshness.

                  Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 12 bars

                    Presentation Tips: For an attractive presentation, arrange the bars on a decorative platter and sprinkle a few extra chocolate chips or chopped nuts on top. Optionally, dust the bars with a light sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor and visual appeal.