Imagine a snack that's not just delicious, but also incredibly easy to make and packed with wholesome goodness. These Baked Banana Granola Bites are about to revolutionize your snacking game! Perfect for health-conscious foodies, busy parents, and anyone craving a quick, nutritious treat that satisfies those sweet cravings without the guilt. With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you'll be whipping up these irresistible bites faster than you can say "healthy snack"!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 bites
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas thoroughly with a fork until they become a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Add rolled oats, honey (or maple syrup), and ground cinnamon to the mashed bananas. Mix all ingredients together until well combined and evenly distributed.
- If using chocolate chips, gently fold them into the mixture, ensuring they are evenly spread throughout the batter.
- Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, drop rounded portions of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Slightly flatten each portion with the back of a spoon to create uniform bite-sized shapes.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the bites are firm to the touch.
- Remove from the oven and let the granola bites cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to help them set.
- Transfer the bites to a wire cooling rack and allow them to cool completely before serving.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days, or refrigerate for extended freshness.
Tips
- Choose ultra-ripe bananas for maximum natural sweetness and easier mashing.
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- For extra crunch, slightly toast your rolled oats before mixing them into the batter.
- Experiment with mix-ins like dried fruit, coconut flakes, or seeds for variety.
- Make sure to flatten the bites slightly for even baking and a uniform texture.
- Let the bites cool completely to achieve the perfect chewy-crisp consistency.
- For a protein boost, consider adding a scoop of protein powder to the mixture.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent them from becoming soggy.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 90kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
