No-Bake Banana Chocolate Oat Bars

Table of Contents

- 1/3 cup (30g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1-2 bananas (for layering)
- Optional toppings: nuts, seeds, shredded coconut (for extra texture and flavor)

1. Mash the Bananas: Peel and mash the 4 bananas in a large mixing bowl using a fork or potato masher. Mash until smooth and free of lumps. The ripe bananas provide natural sweetness and bind the ingredients together.
2. Combine with Oats: Once the bananas are fully mashed, add 3 cups of oatmeal to the bowl. Mix well until the oats are fully incorporated into the mashed bananas. This mixture will form the base of your no-bake bars.
3. Add Cocoa: Next, add 1/3 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder to the banana-oat mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure the cocoa powder is evenly distributed throughout the mixture. The cocoa adds a rich, chocolatey flavor without the need for added sugar.

1. Prepare the Baking Dish: Line a small baking dish or tray (about 9×9 inches) with parchment paper to prevent sticking. You could also lightly grease the dish with a small amount of coconut oil or butter if preferred.
2. Layer Half the Mixture: Take half of the banana-oat mixture and press it evenly into the bottom of the prepared dish. Use the back of a spoon or your hands to press it down firmly, creating an even base layer.
3. Add Sliced Bananas: Peel and slice 1-2 additional bananas into thin rounds. Layer these banana slices over the first layer of the banana-oat mixture. This will add a creamy texture and extra sweetness in the middle of the bars.

1. Refrigerate: Place the dish in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours to allow the bars to firm up. Chilling helps the oats absorb the moisture from the bananas, and the mixture sets into a firm, sliceable texture.
2. Cut and Serve: Once the mixture has set, remove it from the fridge. Lift the entire block of oat bars out of the dish using the parchment paper for easy removal. Slice into squares or bars of your desired size.

Optional Toppings: For extra crunch and flavor, feel free to sprinkle your bars with chopped nuts, seeds, or shredded coconut before serving.

- Ripe Bananas: For best results, use ripe or overripe bananas. They are naturally sweeter and easier to mash, which enhances the flavor and texture of the bars.
- Optional Add-Ins: You can customize these bars by adding ingredients such as chocolate chips, dried fruit, or a handful of chopped nuts into the banana-oat mixture for added texture and flavor.

Storage: These no-bake bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to store them longer, freeze the bars individually wrapped and thaw as needed for a quick snack.

- Calories: 150-200 kcal per bar (depending on serving size)
- Carbohydrates: 35g

- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 4g (mostly from oats and optional toppings like nuts)
- Fiber: 6g