Healthy Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Bars

Featured in Sweet Creations and Baking Adventures.

Healthy Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Bars are a nutrient-packed snack or breakfast option that combines rolled oats, almond flour, natural sweeteners, and dark chocolate chips. The recipe involves mixing dry and wet ingredients separately, then combining them with mix-ins like chocolate chips, dried fruit, and nuts. The batter is baked until golden brown and then cooled before being cut into bars. These bars are customizable with various add-ins like chia seeds, flax seeds, or protein powder. They can be stored at room temperature or in the fridge, making them a convenient on-the-go snack. The combination of oats, healthy fats, and natural sweeteners provides a balanced and satisfying treat, ideal for those seeking a healthier alternative to traditional snacks.
Rana
Updated on Mon, 24 Feb 2025 01:55:15 GMT
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Healthy Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Bars: A Nutritious Treat

Let's create a snack that's both wholesome and satisfying: Healthy Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Bars. These bars combine the heartiness of oats, the sweetness of bananas, and the indulgence of chocolate chips, creating a nutritious and delicious treat. I'm excited to share this easy and versatile recipe with you.

Ingredient Essentials

Rolled Oats:
Rolled oats provide a hearty texture and are a great source of fiber.
Whole Wheat Flour:
Whole wheat flour adds nutrients and fiber.
Bananas:
Ripe bananas add natural sweetness and moisture.
Honey or Maple Syrup:
Honey or maple syrup adds natural sweetness.
Almond Milk:
Almond milk adds moisture and creaminess.
Peanut Butter or Almond Butter:
Peanut butter or almond butter adds healthy fats and protein.
Vanilla Extract:
Vanilla extract enhances the other flavors.
Baking Powder:
Baking powder helps the bars rise.
Salt:
Salt balances the sweetness.
Ground Cinnamon:
Ground cinnamon adds a warm and comforting flavor.
Chia or Flaxseeds (Optional):
Chia or flaxseeds add extra nutrients and fiber.
Dark Chocolate Chips:
Dark chocolate chips add a touch of indulgence.
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Crafting Your Oatmeal Bars

Wet Ingredient Preparation:
Mash the bananas in a large bowl. Add honey or maple syrup, almond milk, peanut butter or almond butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until combined.
Dry Ingredient Mixing:
In a separate bowl, combine rolled oats, whole wheat flour, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, and chia or flaxseeds (if using).
Batter Combination:
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.
Baking Preparation:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9x9 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Baking:
Spoon the batter into the pan and spread evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooling:
Let the bars cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cutting and Serving:
Cut into squares and serve.

You Must Know

  • These oatmeal bars are a nutritious and delicious snack or breakfast option.
  • They're easy to customize and adapt to different dietary needs.
  • Leftovers can be stored at room temperature or frozen.

I love the chewy texture of these bars and the combination of sweet bananas and rich chocolate chips. The natural sweetness and wholesome ingredients make them a guilt-free treat.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Healthy Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Bars as a snack, breakfast, or dessert. They're perfect for on-the-go snacking, lunchboxes, or a post-workout boost.

Flavorful Variations

Use almond flour or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. Use stevia or monk fruit sweetener for a lower-sugar option. Use sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option. Add dried fruits, nuts, or other spices.

Storage and Freezing

Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Freeze for up to 3 months.

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Chef's Helpful Tips

Use ripe but not overly soft bananas.
Press the batter firmly into the baking pan.
Don't overbake the bars.
Let the bars cool completely before cutting.
Get creative with add-ins and spices.

These Healthy Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Bars are a nutritious and delicious treat that's perfect for any occasion. They're a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection. I hope you enjoy making and sharing these delightful bars as much as I do.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use peanut butter instead of almond butter?
Yes, you can substitute almond butter with peanut butter or cashew butter.
→ How long can I store these bars?
These bars can be stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days at room temperature or up to 1 week in the fridge.
→ Can I make these bars dairy-free?
Yes, use non-dairy chocolate chips to make them dairy-free.
→ Can I add protein powder to these bars?
Yes, you can add a scoop of your favorite protein powder to the wet ingredients for an extra protein boost.
→ What are some other add-ins I can use?
You can customize with chia seeds, flax seeds, coconut flakes, or other dried fruits.

Healthy Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Bars

These Healthy Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Bars combine the heartiness of oats with the sweetness of dark chocolate chips and natural sweeteners for a nutritious snack.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
25 Minutes
Total Time
35 Minutes
By: Rana

Category: Desserts & Pastry

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 9 Servings

Dietary: Vegetarian

Ingredients

01 2 cups rolled oats
02 1/2 cup almond flour (or whole wheat flour)
03 1/2 tsp baking soda
04 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
05 1/4 tsp salt
06 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (or a mix of both)
07 1/4 cup almond butter (or peanut butter)
08 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
09 1 large egg
10 1 tsp vanilla extract
11 1/3 cup dark chocolate chips (or mini chocolate chips for less sweetness)
12 1/4 cup dried fruit (optional, such as raisins or cranberries)
13 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional, such as walnuts or almonds)

Instructions

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Step 02

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until well mixed.

Step 03

In another bowl, whisk together the honey or maple syrup, almond butter, applesauce, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and combined.

Step 04

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well combined.

Step 05

Fold in the chocolate chips, dried fruit, and chopped nuts (if using).

Step 06

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.

Step 07

Allow the bars to cool in the baking dish for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut into squares or bars.

Step 08

These oatmeal bars are perfect for a quick snack or breakfast on the go!

Notes

  1. For a dairy-free version, use non-dairy chocolate chips.
  2. You can swap almond butter for peanut butter or cashew butter, depending on your preference.
  3. These bars can be stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days at room temperature, or up to 1 week in the fridge.
  4. For an extra boost of protein, add a scoop of your favorite protein powder into the wet ingredients.
  5. Feel free to customize with other add-ins like chia seeds, flax seeds, or coconut flakes.

Tools You'll Need

  • 8x8-inch baking dish
  • Mixing bowls
  • Wire rack

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Nuts
  • Eggs
  • Gluten (if using wheat flour)