Banana Oatmeal Bars with Dark Chocolate and Peanuts

Ingredients

• • 2 ripe bananas
  • 2g cinnamon
  • 35g cocoa powder

• • 500g oat flakes
  • 1 cake tray (22 cm)
  • 1 more banana (for topping)

• • 150g dark chocolate
  • 15ml vegetable oil
  • 70g peanuts

Directions

1. 1. Mash the Bananas: Mash the two bananas in a large bowl until smooth.
   2. Add Dry Ingredients: Stir in the cinnamon, cocoa powder, and oat flakes until well combined.

1. 1. Prepare the Cake Tray: Line the 22 cm cake tray with parchment paper and press the banana-oat mixture evenly into the tray.
   2. Chill the Mixture: Place the tray in the fridge for 1 hour to set.
   3. Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate and vegetable oil together for about 2 minutes in the microwave. Stir until smooth.

1. 1. Add Peanuts: Chop the peanuts and stir them into the melted chocolate.
   2. Top the Bars: Slice the remaining banana and place the slices on top of the set oat mixture. Pour the chocolate and peanut mixture over the top.
   3. Chill Again: Return the tray to the fridge for 30 more minutes to allow everything to set.

1. Slice and Serve: Once firm, cut into bars and serve!

Serving Suggestions

• • Enjoy as a breakfast bar with a cup of tea or coffee.

• • Serve as a mid-afternoon snack to curb your sweet tooth.
  • Pack them in lunchboxes for a healthy snack on the go.
  • Top with Greek yogurt for added protein and creaminess.

• Pair with a fresh fruit salad for a balanced meal.

Cooking Tips

• • Make sure the bananas are ripe for natural sweetness.

• • If you prefer a sweeter taste, add honey or maple syrup to the mixture.
  • For an extra crunch, you can add some seeds or dried fruits.
  • Store the bars in an airtight container in the fridge to keep them fresh.

• You can also freeze these bars for up to a month for later enjoyment.

Nutritional Benefits

• • High in fiber and antioxidants from the oats and bananas.

• • Packed with healthy fats and protein from peanuts and dark chocolate.
  • Offers natural sweetness without added sugar.
  • Provides sustained energy, perfect for fueling your day.

Dietary Information

• • Vegan (if using dairy-free chocolate).
  • Nut-free option (if you skip the peanuts).

• Dairy-free (if using dairy-free chocolate).
• Can be made gluten-free by using certified gluten-free oats.

Nutritional Facts (per serving)

• • Calories: 180
  • Protein: 4g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g

• • Fat: 7g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugar: 9g

Storage

• • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
  • For longer storage, freeze the bars for up to 1 month.