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Oats are a staple in many baked goods, and for a good reason. They provide essential structure and chewiness to your Pumpkin Banana Snack Bars. In this recipe, rolled oats are key to achieving the right texture, ensuring that the bars hold together well without becoming too dense. Oats absorb moisture, which helps to keep the bars from drying out, and they also contribute to the overall nutritional profile by adding fiber and heart-healthy whole grains. When selecting oats, choose old-fashioned rolled oats for the best results, as they will lend the perfect balance of texture and chewiness.

Pumpkin Banana Snack Bars

Discover the joy of making Delicious Pumpkin Banana Snack Bars, a perfect blend of flavor and nutrition. These easy-to-prepare bars are moist and packed with health benefits from pumpkin and bananas. Suitable for both kids and adults, they make a great snack or breakfast option. This article provides step-by-step instructions, highlights key ingredients, and shares tips for storing your treats. Elevate your snacking game while enjoying a wholesome treat that doesn't compromise on taste!

Ingredients
  

1 cup ripe bananas (approximately 2 medium), mashed

1 cup canned pumpkin puree

1/2 cup natural almond butter (or substitute with any nut butter of your choice)

1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (for sweetness)

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract (pure for best flavor)

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

1 ½ cups rolled oats (old-fashioned for texture)

1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, for crunch)

1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (optional, for a sweet touch)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8x8-inch baking dish by lining it with parchment paper, ensuring there is some overhang for easy removal later.

    Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, pumpkin puree, almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), eggs, and vanilla extract. Use a whisk or a fork to thoroughly blend these ingredients until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

      Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, baking soda, baking powder, and sea salt. Mix until all the dry ingredients are evenly incorporated.

        Bring It Together: Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture. Use a spatula to gently combine until just incorporated, being careful not to overmix as this will keep the bars moist and tender.

          Add Flavor-Full Add-Ins: If desired, gently fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans and dark chocolate chips for added texture and sweetness.

            Pour and Level the Batter: Carefully pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Utilize a spatula to spread the mixture evenly across the dish for uniform baking.

              Bake to Perfection: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The bars are ready when the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

                Cool and Slice: Once baked, take the dish out of the oven and allow it to cool in the baking dish for about 10 minutes. Use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

                  Serve and Savor: Once completely cooled, cut the bars into squares or rectangles. These tasty snack bars are perfect for on-the-go nibbling throughout the week. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to one week.

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes | Serves 16 bars.