Banana Oat Bars

This recipe is for 9 month old baby & up These are one of my favorite go to snack recipes for the kids! They are so easy and simple to make, made with just 3 ingredients! A healthy, and delicious snack for babies, toddlers and older kids, that is vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free and egg-free. All it is, is ripe bananas, rolled oats, and a small amount of peanut butter to enhance flavor. These bars are easy to make, packed with essential nutrients, and versatile enough to suit picky eaters. Parents love them because they require minimal ingredients, no refined sugar, and can be made in under 30 minutes. Plus, they are a great way to use up overripe bananas that might otherwise go to waste. Not only are they easy to make with just three ingredients, but they also come together quickly, making them a perfect go-to snack or meal prep food for busy families. My favorite thing about these bars is that they are very versatile. You can add on whatever toppings you and your little one's prefer. For my 1 year old I added some strawberries and wild blueberries and for my 6 year old I added some dark chocolate chips with festive sprinkles, both equally delicious and both kids loved it!   Banana oat bars are a fantastic snack for kids because they combine two powerhouse ingredients—bananas and oats—that provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. This makes them not only filling but also nutritious, supporting your child’s growth and development. They are also naturally sweetened with ripe bananas, so there’s no need for added sugars, making them a healthier alternative to many store-bought granola bars or processed snacks.  

Nutritional Benefits of Banana Oat Bars

Each ingredient in these bars brings its own set of health benefits, making this snack a nutrient-packed option for kids.

1. Bananas: Bananas are rich in potassium, an important mineral that supports muscle function and heart health in growing children. They also contain vitamin C, which boosts the immune system, and vitamin B6, which helps with brain development and function. The natural sugars in bananas, like fructose and glucose, provide a quick energy boost, making these bars a great snack for active kids.
2. Oats: Rolled oats are an excellent source of fiber, particularly soluble fiber, which aids digestion and keeps kids feeling full for longer. They are also a great source of complex carbohydrates, providing a slow and steady release of energy, perfect for keeping kids fueled throughout the day. Oats also contain important nutrients like iron, zinc, and magnesium, all of which play crucial roles in supporting growth and immune function.
3. Optional Add-ins: You can enhance the flavor and nutritional value of these bars by adding fruit or dark chocolate chips for a bit of indulgence. Other great options include chia seeds for added omega-3 fatty acids or raisins for extra fiber and sweetness.

 

Substitutions:

Bananas: You can substitute with mashed, steamed apple or applesauce, but they wont be as sweet. Oats: I don't recommend swapping the oats for this recipe. I like to use instant oats, since they are thinner in texture and easier for babies and toddlers to eat. Peanut butter: You can substitute with any nut or seed butter of your choice.  

What you need:

A 8x8 or 9x9 square baking pan   If you enjoyed this recipe, you should check these out: ABC Oat Bars  Peanut Butter Banana Blondies  Blueberry Banana Baked Oat Bites