Name: Banana Blueberry Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 cup dates (pitted and halved); 1.5 cups apple juice; 1 cup oat flour; 2 cups rolled oats; 0.75 teaspoon cinnamon; 0.25 teaspoon nutmeg; 3 pieces ripe bananas (peeled); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 0.5 cup frozen blueberries; 0.5 cup walnuts (chopped)

If you’re searching for a delicious and nutritious snack that the whole family will love, look no further than these Banana Blueberry Bars. With the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and the burst of flavor from juicy blueberries, these bars are not only a delightful treat but also packed with wholesome ingredients. They make for an excellent breakfast option, a midday snack, or even a guilt-free dessert. Plus, they are super easy to whip up, making them a perfect choice for busy days!

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

These Banana Blueberry Bars are a fantastic way to use up overripe bananas that may otherwise go to waste. The combination of oats and fruit creates a hearty, satisfying snack that holds together beautifully. With no refined sugars and a host of nutrients, you can feel good about indulging. Furthermore, they are versatile—feel free to switch out the blueberries for your favorite fruit or add in some chocolate chips for an extra treat.

What You’ll Need

1 cup dates, pitted and halved
1 ½ cups apple juice
1 cup oat flour
2 cups rolled oats
¾ teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon nutmeg
3 ripe bananas, peeled
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup frozen blueberries
½ cup walnuts, chopped

Equipment & Tools

Mixing bowl – for combining ingredients.
Baking pan (9×9 inches) – to bake the bars.
Parchment paper – for easy removal of the bars.
Wooden spoon or spatula – to mix the batter.
Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient measurements.

Make Banana Blueberry Bars: A Simple Method

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later.

Step 2: Blend the Base

In a mixing bowl, combine the pitted and halved dates with the apple juice. Use a fork or a potato masher to mash the dates until they form a paste. This will act as a natural sweetener for your Banana Blueberry Bars.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the oat flour, rolled oats, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This blend will give your bars a warm and comforting flavor.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

To the date-apple juice mixture, add the mashed bananas and vanilla extract. Mix well until everything is combined. Gradually fold in the dry ingredients until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Add the Good Stuff

Gently fold in the frozen blueberries and chopped walnuts. This step adds texture and a burst of flavor to your Banana Blueberry Bars.

Step 6: Bake

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Slice

Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan and place them on a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, slice into squares or bars and enjoy!

If You’re Out Of…

Oat flour: You can blend rolled oats in a blender or food processor until they reach a flour-like consistency.
Walnuts: Substitute with pecans, almonds, or even sunflower seeds if you want a nut-free version.
Frozen blueberries: Fresh blueberries can be used instead, or you can substitute with chopped strawberries or raspberries.
Apple juice: Unsweetened applesauce can be a good alternative, or use another fruit juice of your choice.

Problems & Prevention

When making Banana Blueberry Bars, there are a few common issues you might encounter:

Bars are too crumbly: Ensure that you’ve mashed the dates well to form a cohesive mixture.
Bars are too dense: Avoid overmixing the batter, as this can lead to tough bars.
Burnt edges: Keep an eye on the baking time and check for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time.
Uneven cooking: Make sure to spread the mixture evenly in the baking pan before placing it in the oven.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

To keep your Banana Blueberry Bars fresh:

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months.
To freeze, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.

Troubleshooting Q&A

Why are my bars too dry?

If your bars turn out dry, it could be due to overbaking. Make sure to check for doneness a few minutes before the suggested baking time, as ovens can vary.

Can I substitute the bananas with something else?

Yes! You can use applesauce as a substitute for bananas, although it will alter the flavor slightly. You can also experiment with other mashed fruits like pumpkin or sweet potato.

What can I add for extra flavor?

Feel free to add in spices like ginger or cardamom, or even a handful of dark chocolate chips for a sweet twist. Dried fruits like cranberries or raisins also work wonderfully.

Are these bars suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! These Banana Blueberry Bars are perfect for meal prep. Make a batch at the beginning of the week for a quick grab-and-go snack or breakfast option.

Final Bite

These Banana Blueberry Bars are not just a treat; they’re a wholesome and satisfying option for any time of the day. Packed with nutrients and flavor, they are a perfect way to use up ripe bananas while indulging your sweet tooth without the guilt. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven, or pack them for a mid-afternoon snack.

With this easy recipe, you’ll have a delicious batch of bars that are sure to become a family favorite. So, what are you waiting for? Get baking and treat yourself to this delightful snack today!