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To truly appreciate the magic behind these Decadent Healthy Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Bars, let’s take a closer look at the key ingredients that make them not only delicious but also nutritious.

Healthy Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Bars

Discover the perfect balance of indulgence and nutrition with Decadent Healthy Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Bars! These delicious bars combine rolled oats, ripe bananas, almond butter, and dark chocolate for a guilt-free treat that satisfies your sweet tooth. Ideal for busy individuals and families, they provide sustained energy and essential nutrients. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, they're versatile and easy to customize. Enjoy a wholesome snack that supports your health goals while tasting amazing!

Ingredients
  

2 cups rolled oats

1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 large)

1/2 cup natural almond butter (or any nut/seed butter)

1/4 cup honey or pure maple syrup

1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce

1 tsp vanilla extract

1/2 tsp baking powder

1/4 tsp baking soda

1/2 tsp cinnamon

1/4 tsp salt

1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (preferably 70% cocoa or higher)

Optional: 1/4 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans) for added crunch

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a square 9x9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later.

    Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), applesauce, and vanilla extract. Mix well until you have a smooth and creamy consistency.

      Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, stir together the rolled oats, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt until they are evenly mixed.

        Combine Both Mixtures: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir until fully combined, ensuring the oats are well-coated.

          Add Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the dark chocolate chips and any optional chopped nuts until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

            Transfer to Baking Pan: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Press the mixture down firmly to ensure that it holds together during baking.

              Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

                Cool and Cut: Once baked, remove the bars from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the bars out and place them on a wire rack to cool completely before cutting them into squares.

                  Store: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

                    Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 12 bars