Banana Oat Bars

If you need a healthy snack for your kids here is a recipe for you! They are called Banana Oat Bars. We love them! They don't have any sugar in them and are super easy to make. They are naturally sweet and very moist. A great way to use up ripe bananas as well. Sometimes I add 1/4 tsp. of cinnamon to change them up. We make these when we travel for a healthy snack for the kids (and us). Much better for them than sugar loaded cookies. They also make great breakfast bars. Pack them in a school lunch, bring along on a bike trip or hike, and feel good about what your kids are eating. Give them a try! You AND your kids will love them!

Banana Oat Bars

2 c. quick oats (not instant – I whirl old fashioned oats in my blender to break up)
1/4 c. chopped walnuts (I usually end up adding 1/2 c.)
1/2 c. shredded coconut (try to use unsweetened)
1/2 c. raisins or chopped dates (the dates will make them sweeter)
2 large ripe bananas, mashed
1/4 c. unsweetened applesauce
1/2 tsp. vanilla
1/4 tsp. cinnamon, if desired

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. I put everything into a Kitchen-Aid bowl and stir ‘til blended and smooth. Press dough in a 9x9 baking pan. It works best if it’s been sprayed first or lightly oiled. Bake for 30 min. When cool, slice into squares or bars and serve. Great travel bars or to have handy for a quick meal or snack.