Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking pan (preferably 9×9 inches) with parchment paper to ensure the bars do not stick.
2. Mash the Bananas:
In a large mixing bowl, peel and mash the 2 ripe bananas until smooth. This will be the base of your oat mixture. The natural sweetness of the bananas will help bind the ingredients together and provide moisture to the bars.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, mix the oats, cinnamon, and cocoa powder together. Stir until well combined. The cocoa powder will give the bars a rich chocolate flavor, while the cinnamon adds warmth and depth.
4. Mix Wet Ingredients:
Add the vegetable oil to the mashed bananas and mix well. This will provide the necessary fat to help bind the ingredients together while adding richness to the bars.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry oat mixture into the mashed banana mixture, stirring until fully combined. The oats should absorb the moisture from the bananas, and the dough will begin to form. You want a thick batter consistency.
6. Add Peanuts:
Gently fold in the chopped peanuts into the oat mixture. The peanuts will add a delicious crunch and a savory contrast to the sweetness of the banana and cocoa.
7. Transfer to the Baking Pan:
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. Press the mixture down gently to compact it and ensure the bars bake evenly.
8. Bake the Bars:
Bake the bars in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until they are firm to the touch and golden brown on the edges. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
9. Prepare the Chocolate Drizzle:
While the bars are baking, chop the dark chocolate into small pieces. Place it in a heatproof bowl and melt it over a double boiler or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently.
10. Finish the Bars:
Once the bars have baked and cooled slightly, drizzle the melted dark chocolate over the top. Allow the chocolate to set for about 10 minutes before slicing the bars into squares or rectangles.
11. Cool and Serve:
Let the bars cool completely before cutting them into pieces. This will ensure the chocolate hardens and the bars hold their shape.
Prep Time:
10 minutes (for mashing the bananas and preparing the ingredients)
Cooking Time:
20-25 minutes (baking time)
Total Time:
30-35 minutes (including cooling time)
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
Calories: 200-250 kcal (depending on size)
Protein: 5-7 g
Carbohydrates: 30-35 g
Fat: 8-10 g
Fiber: 4-5 g
Sugar: 12-15 g (natural sugars from bananas)
Servings:
This recipe makes about 12-16 bars, depending on how large you cut them.
Explanation of the Recipe: Why It’s Timeless:
The timeless appeal of these Banana and Cocoa Oat Bars lies in their simplicity, nutritional benefits, and the balance of flavors. By combining familiar ingredients like bananas, oats, and peanuts, this recipe allows you to make a delicious and healthy snack that’s both satisfying and filling. The addition of dark chocolate takes these bars to a more indulgent level, making them perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth who still wants to enjoy a wholesome treat.

The oats and bananas provide slow-burning energy, while the peanuts give you a dose of healthy fats and protein. The dark chocolate offers an antioxidant boost, and the cinnamon and cocoa bring rich, comforting flavors. These bars are not only great for a mid-afternoon snack but also work as a post-workout refuel or a breakfast on the go.