Healthy Chocolate Banana Oat Bars: No Added Sugar, No Flour!

Looking for a healthy dessert that’s rich in flavor but light on the guilt? These Chocolate Banana Oat Bars are the answer! Made with simple, wholesome ingredients like ripe bananas, oats, and cocoa powder, this recipe is perfect for those who want to indulge in a sweet treat without the added sugar or flour. The natural sweetness of the bananas and the richness of the cocoa create a delightful combination that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a post-workout treat, or a healthier dessert option, these bars will hit the spot every time.

Ingredients:

Bananas: 2 ripe, mashed
Oat flakes: ¾ cup (2.5 oz / 70g)
Condensed milk: ¼ cup (1.75 oz / 50g)
Yogurt: ½ cup (150g)
Cocoa powder: 3 tablespoons
Baking powder: 1 teaspoon
Chocolate: 1.4 oz (40g), chopped or in chips
Walnuts: As desired, roughly chopped

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease or line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
Mash the Bananas:
In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Make sure there are no large lumps left, as the bananas will act as a natural sweetener and binder for the bars.
Add the Wet Ingredients:
Stir in the condensed milk and yogurt with the mashed bananas. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined and you have a smooth mixture.
Incorporate the Dry Ingredients:
Add the oat flakes, cocoa powder, and baking powder to the wet mixture. Stir until everything is well mixed and the oats are fully coated with the banana and cocoa mixture.
Fold in the Chocolate and Walnuts:
Gently fold in the chopped chocolate and walnuts. Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter, so every bite is filled with chocolatey goodness and a satisfying crunch.
Bake the Bars:
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Slice:
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice into squares or bars and enjoy!

Cooking Tips:

Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bars will be. Look for bananas that are spotty and soft, as they will blend more easily and add natural sweetness.
Optional Add-Ins: Feel free to add other ingredients like dried fruits, seeds, or spices (like cinnamon or vanilla extract) to customize your bars.
Storage: These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months—just thaw them at room temperature before eating.

Nutritional Benefits:

These Chocolate Banana Oat Bars are not just delicious; they’re also packed with nutrients. Bananas are a great source of potassium, vitamin B6, and dietary fiber, which support heart health and digestion. Oats are rich in beta-glucan, a type of soluble fiber that can help lower cholesterol levels and improve blood sugar control. Cocoa powder is loaded with antioxidants that protect your body from free radicals and may even boost your mood. The addition of yogurt provides probiotics for gut health and calcium for strong bones, while the walnuts add healthy fats and protein to keep you satisfied.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

You’ll love this recipe because it’s easy, quick, and versatile. The combination of chocolate, bananas, and oats creates a naturally sweet and rich dessert that feels indulgent without any added sugar or flour. These bars are perfect for those who want a healthy snack that’s also delicious. Plus, they’re great for meal prep—make a batch at the start of the week, and you’ll have a go-to treat that you can enjoy anytime. Whether you’re serving them to kids, guests, or just indulging yourself, these bars are sure to be a hit.

Dietary Information:

No Added Sugar: The natural sweetness comes from ripe bananas, so there’s no need for additional sugar.
No Flour: This recipe is flourless, making it suitable for those looking to reduce their intake of refined carbs.
Vegetarian: All ingredients used are vegetarian-friendly.
Gluten-Free Option: If you use certified gluten-free oats, this recipe can be enjoyed by those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
Dairy: The recipe includes yogurt and condensed milk, which means it contains dairy.

Why This Recipe Works:

This recipe works because it balances natural sweetness, rich chocolate flavor, and a satisfying texture without relying on processed ingredients. The bananas act as a natural binder and sweetener, which keeps the bars moist and flavorful. Oats provide a hearty base that holds everything together, while the yogurt adds creaminess and a slight tang that complements the cocoa. The addition of walnuts and chocolate creates a delightful contrast in texture—each bite is soft, chewy, and filled with crunchy and melty surprises. Overall, this recipe is a delicious way to enjoy a healthier dessert that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, these Chocolate Banana Oat Bars are a fantastic example of how simple, wholesome ingredients can come together to create something truly special. Whether you’re looking for a healthier alternative to sugary desserts or just want to try something new, this recipe is a must-try. The combination of ripe bananas, oats, cocoa, and walnuts creates a bar that’s not only nutritious but also incredibly satisfying. They’re easy to make, perfect for sharing, and versatile enough to enjoy as a snack, dessert, or even breakfast on the go. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll see why it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen!