Chunky Monkey Protein Baked Oat Bars (Print Version)

Hearty baked oat bars with banana, chocolate, and walnuts for energy-boosting breakfasts and snacks.

# Components:

→ Wet Ingredients

01 - 2 large ripe bananas, mashed
02 - 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
03 - 1/4 cup pure maple syrup or honey
04 - 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
05 - 1 large egg
06 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

→ Dry Ingredients

07 - 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
08 - 1/2 cup vanilla or chocolate protein powder
09 - 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
10 - 1/3 cup dark chocolate chips
11 - 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut, optional
12 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
13 - 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
14 - 1 teaspoon baking powder

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
02 - In a large bowl, mash bananas thoroughly. Whisk in applesauce, maple syrup, almond milk, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and well incorporated.
03 - In a separate bowl, combine oats, protein powder, walnuts, chocolate chips, coconut if using, cinnamon, salt, and baking powder.
04 - Add dry ingredients to wet mixture. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
05 - Pour batter into prepared pan and spread evenly. Top with extra chocolate chips and walnuts if desired.
06 - Bake for 25 to 28 minutes, or until golden and set. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out mostly clean.
07 - Cool completely in pan. Lift out using parchment paper, then slice into 12 equal bars.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • They taste like a treat but pack enough protein and whole grains to actually keep you full until lunch.
  • The texture is that perfect chewy-crispy combo, and you can customize the mix-ins based on whatever's in your pantry.
02 -
  • Don't skip the cooling step no matter how hungry you are because warm bars fall apart, but room temperature ones hold together beautifully.
  • The texture will be slightly softer than traditional granola bars, which is exactly what makes them special and chewy in the best way.
03 -
  • If your banana is slightly underripe, your bars might be denser, so always use bananas with brown spots for maximum sweetness and moisture.
  • Press the batter firmly into corners as you spread it into the pan, which prevents air pockets and ensures even baking throughout.
Return