Banana Cocoa Oatmeal Bars

 

Here's a simple and healthy dessert using oatmeal, cocoa, and bananas—no sugar added!

Banana Cocoa Oatmeal Bars

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any milk of choice)
• 1 tablespoon peanut butter or almond butter (optional for extra richness)
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional, for crunch)

Instructions:

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

2. Mash the bananas: In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. They will provide natural sweetness for the dessert.

3. Mix ingredients: To the mashed bananas, add the rolled oats, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, cinnamon, salt, almond milk, and peanut butter (if using). Stir until well combined.

4. Add nuts (optional): If you want some crunch, fold in the chopped nuts.

5. Bake: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the bars are set and lightly golden around the edges.

6. Cool and cut: Let the bars cool in the dish for about 10 minutes before slicing into squares or bars.

Enjoy:

These Banana Cocoa Oatmeal Bars are a great sugar-free dessert option. They’re naturally sweetened by the bananas, while the cocoa provides a rich chocolate flavor. Enjoy as a snack or a healthier dessert!