Banana Oatmeal Bars (Gluten Free)

Need a speedy treat? My banana oatmeal bars (gluten free) are an easy one-bowl recipe that comes together in 30 minutes, with 5 main ingredients.

I love the comforting, soft, and chewy texture of these chocolate chip banana bars. Made with simple ingredients that are gluten-free! I reach for these banana oatmeal bars as a sweet treat, healthy snack or healthy dessert.

If you love these gluten free oatmeal bars, check out my easy strawberry oatmeal recipe and this chocolate peanut butter oatmeal (gluten free) recipe. For more inspiration, I’ve put together a bank of 20 easy weeknight gluten free dinner recipes.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS GLUTEN FREE RECIPE

• I hate doing dishes: Banana oatmeal bars take you a quick 5 minutes to wash up after since they are a recipe that only uses one single bowl and a baking dish. I like to line my baking dish with parchment paper for easy clean up.
• Anytime wholesome treat: A delicious, gluten-free snack that’s an easy snack, sweet breakfast, or good-for-you dessert.
• Easy to make: These chocolate chip oatmeal bars are a mix-and-go kind of recipe.
• You’ll love how easy they are to customize! You get to add your favorite spices, dried fruits, nuts, and seasonal flavors to the base of simple ingredients. No batch needs to be the same!

INGREDIENTS AND SUBSTITUTIONS

• Gluten free flour: I like to sift out any lumps first but its not critical.
• Ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter your bars will be. Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots.
• Gluten-free oats: Check your oats are certified gluten-free. Old-fashioned rolled oats work best for a chewy texture in your gluten free oatmeal bars.
• Peanut butter: A creamy, natural nut butter, like almond or peanut butter, adds richness and helps bind the banana oatmeal bars.
• Chocolate chips: You can use dark or milk chocolate chips. Chopped chocolate bars work well, too.
• Peanut butter cups: For extra peanut flavor in the gluten free oatmeal bars. Use peanut butter chips instead.

OPTIONAL MIX-INS

• Chopped nuts: Add crunch and extra protein with walnuts, pecans, or almonds.
• Dried fruit: Raisins, cranberries, or chopped dates can bring a pop of natural sweetness.

DIRECTIONS (STEP BY STEP)

In a large bowl, combine the flour, gluten-free oats, nut butter, mashed bananas and chocolate chips. Mix until well combined.

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake.

Remove the loaf pan from the oven and top with peanut butter cups. Return to the oven for 5 more minutes, or until the peanut butter cups are melted.

Let the banana oatmeal bars cool completely in the pan before slicing and serving.

EXPERT TIPS & TRICKS 

• Don’t forget to line the pan: Use parchment paper to line the baking dish for easy clean-up.
• Spread in an even layer: Press the batter into the pan evenly to ensure consistent baking and even thickness across all the banana oatmeal bars.
• Pick super ripe bananas: You know the ones with the brown spots? Those are the ones you need for great results .

STORAGE AND MEAL PREPPING

Store the banana oatmeal bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This works best if your kitchen is cool and dry.

To keep the chocolate chip banana bars fresh longer, store the bars in the fridge for up to a week. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

For long-term storage, freeze the gluten free oatmeal bars in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or microwave for 15-20 seconds when ready to eat.

MEAL PREP NOTES

• Batch bake: Double the recipe and bake two pans at once. Freeze the extras for quick snacks or breakfasts throughout the week.
• Pre-portion: Slice the banana oatmeal bars into individual portions and wrap each in parchment paper or foil for an easy grab-and-go option.
• Add variety: Customize each batch with different mix-ins (e.g., nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit) to keep things exciting.
• Reheat as needed: Warm up refrigerated or frozen chocolate chip banana bars in the microwave for a fresh-from-the-oven taste anytime.

FAQS

HOW CAN I MAKE THESE BANANA OATMEAL BARS VEGAN?

For vegan chocolate chip banana bars, use dairy-free vegan chocolate chips in your banana oatmeal bars.

CAN I MAKE A LOW SUGAR VERSION?

For a lower sugar chocolate chip banana bars, omit the chocolate chips, or use sugar-free chocolate chips.

HOW DO YOU KNOW WHEN THE GLUTEN FREE OATMEAL BARS ARE DONE BAKING?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the banana oatmeal bars. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, they’re ready!

CAN I ADD PROTEIN POWDER TO THIS RECIPE?

Yes, you can add a scoop of protein powder to the gluten free oatmeal bars. Adjust the consistency with a little water or almond milk if the batter becomes too thick.

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