These Almond Butter Banana Oat Blondies are a delicious and healthy twist on a classic treat. You’ll love this easy-to-make recipe that’s perfect for a wholesome snack or a guilt-free dessert, fitting right into your collection of healthy banana oat baked goods.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Ripe Bananas: Essential for sweetness and moisture. Use very ripe, spotty bananas for best results.
- Almond Butter: Provides rich flavor and healthy fats. You can substitute with peanut butter or cashew butter.
- Rolled Oats: Adds texture and fiber. Quick oats can be used, but rolled oats provide a chewier blondie.
- Maple Syrup: Natural sweetener. Honey or agave nectar are good alternatives.
- Chocolate Chips: Optional, but highly recommended! Use dark chocolate chips for a less sweet option.
Ingredients:
- 2 large, very ripe bananas, mashed
- ½ cup creamy almond butter
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup chocolate chips (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 12 blondies
- Tools Needed: 8×8 inch baking pan, mixing bowls, whisk, spatula.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup simple.
2. Mash the Bananas
In a large bowl, thoroughly mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Aim for no large lumps, as this creates a consistent texture in your healthy banana oat baked goods.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients
Add the almond butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well combined and smooth.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir these dry ingredients together evenly.
5. Combine Wet and Dry
Pour the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients bowl. Use a spatula to gently fold everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter.
6. Fold in Chocolate Chips
If using, gently fold in the chocolate chips. Distribute them evenly throughout the batter to ensure every bite has some chocolatey goodness.
7. Bake the Blondies
Pour the batter into your prepared 8×8 inch baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and Serve
Allow the blondies to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment paper. This allows them to firm up, making them easier to cut and enjoy.
Variation Ideas:
- Nut-Free: Substitute almond butter with a seed butter like sunflower seed butter.
- Extra Spiced: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for more warmth.
- Fruity Twist: Fold in dried cranberries or chopped dates along with the chocolate chips.
- Protein Boost: Add a scoop of your favorite unflavored protein powder to the dry ingredients.
Storage Instructions:
Store your Almond Butter Banana Oat Blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Blondies also freeze well for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
A: Yes, you can use quick oats, but the texture of your healthy banana oat baked goods will be slightly less chewy.
Q: My bananas aren’t very ripe. Can I still use them?
A: For the best flavor and sweetness, it’s recommended to use very ripe, spotty bananas. Less ripe bananas will result in a less sweet blondie.
Q: Can I make these gluten-free?
A: This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you ensure your rolled oats are certified gluten-free.
Q: How do I know when the blondies are fully baked?
A: The edges will be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
Q: Can I reduce the amount of maple syrup?
A: You can try reducing it slightly, but be aware that it might affect the sweetness and moisture of your blondies. The ripe bananas contribute a lot of natural sweetness.
Q: Are these blondies suitable for meal prepping?
A: Absolutely! These healthy banana oat baked goods are perfect for meal prepping and make a great grab-and-go snack throughout the week.
