Guilt-Free Oatmeal Cookie Bars

In recent years, the culinary world has experienced a significant shift toward healthier eating, particularly when it comes to desserts. Guilt-free treats have surged in popularity, driven by a growing awareness of nutritional choices and the desire for delicious alternatives to traditional sweets. Enter the oatmeal cookie bar: a delightful hybrid that combines the comforting flavor of classic oatmeal cookies with the convenience of a bar format. This recipe for Irresistible Guilt-Free Oatmeal Cookie Bars not only satisfies your sweet cravings but also offers a wholesome snack option perfect for any occasion.

Discover the joy of guilt-free snacking with these delicious oatmeal cookie bars! Combining the classic flavors of oatmeal cookies with a convenient bar format, these treats are perfect for any occasion. Made with wholesome ingredients like rolled oats, ripe bananas, and nut butter, they provide fiber and natural sweetness without refined sugars. Enjoy them as a quick breakfast, a post-workout snack, or a sweet treat to share, all while indulging in a nutritious option you can feel good about. Perfect for any health-conscious individual or family!

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Ingredients

2 cups rolled oats

1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 medium bananas)

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

1/4 cup honey or maple syrup

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon salt

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

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

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Stir in the almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract until well combined.

Add Dry Ingredients: To the wet mixture, add the rolled oats, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Stir together until all ingredients are well mixed.

Fold in Mix-Ins: Gently fold in the dark chocolate chips and chopped nuts if using, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the oat mixture.

Transfer to Pan: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and use a spatula to spread it evenly across the surface. Press down firmly to help the bars hold together when baked.

Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Slice: Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then use the parchment overhang to lift them out onto a cutting board. Let them cool completely before slicing into squares or bars.

Serve: Enjoy your guilt-free oatmeal cookie bars as a snack or a healthy dessert! Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or refrigerate for longer freshness.

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