Imagine a snack that's made in just one dish, takes a few minutes to whip together, fits in lunchboxes, and freezes like a dream. These Banana Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars tick all those boxes! They're perfect for busy fall mornings, after-school nibbles, and even on-the-go adventures. Plus, they're a breeze to whip up, with just five simple ingredients. And you'll feel good, you're giving your kids a snack that's not only delish but also packed with essential wholesome and filling nutrients!
Why Kids Will Devour These Bars
Sneaking in that pumpkin puree means an extra dose of vitamins and fiber. Your kids won't even notice they're eating something that's great for them. Plus, the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and the sweet chocolate chips make it taste like a dessert. This recipe is a nutritional jackpot disguised as a treat, ensuring your kids get a balanced snack without any fuss.
The Ingredients
Bananas act as the natural sweetener in this recipe, replacing refined sugar. They're also rich in potassium and vitamin B6, which support healthy growth and brain function. Make sure they are super ripe, for the sweetest bars. The more brown spots, the more ripe, and the sweeter the bars will be!
For that fall-inspired pumpkin flavor and packed with vitamin A and antioxidants, pumpkin puree is the perfect fall addition to these. Make sure to use the unsweetened 100% pure pumpkin, not the can labeled pumpkin pie filling.
Oats are the fiber champions here, aiding digestion, providing a steady energy release, and keeping those little tummies full for longer.
Mix-ins: You can add nut butters, flax seed, chia seeds, dried fruit, blueberries, or chocolate chips!
Once they're all baked, you can cut them into bars or squares.
Common Questions, Answered
Q: Are these sweet enough with no added sugar?
If you're making these for big kids or adults, you can add a pinch of salt and 1/4-1/3 cup sweetener like, maple syrup, honey, or agave
Q: Can I use frozen fruit?
Absolutely! Frozen blueberries work just as well in this recipe. No need to thaw them before using – just fold them in.
Q: Are these bars gluten-free?
Yes, if you use certified gluten-free oats, these bars are a gluten-free delight!
Q: Can I make these bars in advance?
Absolutely! Bake a batch, let them cool, and store them in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Q: What can I use instead of pumpkin?
You can sub an extra banana or apple sauce and make these year round!
5-Ingredient Banana Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars
Servings: 16 squares or 8 bars (recipe easily halves or doubles)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Bake Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 extra ripe large bananas, the riper they are the sweeter the bars will be
- Optional: 1/4-1/3 cup maple syrup, honey, or agave, if desired
- 1/2 cup 100% pure pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie in a can)
- 2 cups quick oats or rolled oats
- 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice or ground cinnamon
- 1/3 cup mix ins like blueberries or chocolate chips
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease an 8x8-inch baking pan with non stick cooking spray.
In the greased baking pan, mash the bananas with a fork. Add the pumpkin, oats, spice and chocolate chips.
Mix well until combined. Spread evenly and add extra chocolate chips on top.
Bake for about 25-35 minutes, or until the bars are golden brown.
Allow the bars to cool before cutting into squares.
Enjoy!
Storing Instructions
Once cooled, store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Alternatively, wrap them individually and freeze for quick grab-and-go snacks.
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