These Oatmeal Cookie Bars are soft, fudgy, and naturally sweetened for a wholesome take on a classic treat. With mashed bananas, honey, and rolled oats, they make a satisfying option for breakfast meal prep or a quick snack. Loaded with chocolate chips and subtly spiced with cinnamon, these gluten-free bars are both nourishing and delicious — no flour required.

Oatmeal Cookie Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Naturally sweetened: Bananas and honey provide natural sweetness without refined sugar.
Gluten-free: Made entirely with rolled oats, no flour needed.
Soft and fudgy texture: Moist from bananas and melted butter with the chewy texture of oats.
Great for meal prep: Make a batch and enjoy throughout the week.
Easy to make: Simple ingredients and one bowl mixing means less mess and less time.
Kid-friendly: Mildly sweet and chocolate-studded — a guaranteed hit with little ones.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

3 medium bananas (about ¾ cup mashed)
2 medium eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
7 oz lightly salted butter (about 1 cup melted)
¼ cup honey
½ teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon baking soda
4 cups + 2 tablespoons rolled oats
½ cup chocolate chips

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8”x8” baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal.
In a large bowl, mash the bananas with a fork until smooth.
Add the eggs and vanilla extract, and mix well.
Melt the butter and pour it into the bowl (if using unsalted butter, add 1 teaspoon of salt).
Stir in the honey, cinnamon, and baking soda until fully incorporated.
Add 2 cups of rolled oats and mix. Then add the remaining 2 cups + 2 tablespoons of oats and mix again until well combined.
Fold in the chocolate chips.
Transfer the dough to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Press extra chocolate chips on top if desired.
Bake for 30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
Let the bars cool in the pan for 30 minutes before lifting them out using the parchment paper and slicing into 16 bars.

Servings and timing

Servings: 16 cookie bars
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Calories: Approximately 249 kcal per bar

Variations

Add nuts: Stir in chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds for added crunch.
Use different chips: Try white chocolate, dark chocolate, or butterscotch chips.
Make them vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water per egg).
Add dried fruit: Mix in raisins, chopped dates, or dried cranberries for a fruity twist.
Boost with seeds: Add chia seeds, hemp hearts, or sunflower seeds for extra nutrients.

Storage/Reheating

Storage:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 7 days.

Freezing:
Freeze sliced bars in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Place parchment between layers to prevent sticking.

Reheating:
Microwave for 10–15 seconds for a warm, gooey texture or enjoy cold straight from the fridge.

FAQs

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Rolled oats provide a chewier texture, but quick oats can be used in a pinch. Avoid using steel-cut oats.

Are these bars gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free oats.

Can I make these dairy-free?

Yes, use a dairy-free butter substitute like coconut oil or vegan butter.

What can I use instead of bananas?

Mashed sweet potato or applesauce can be used, but the flavor and sweetness may vary.

Do these bars taste like banana?

Yes, the banana flavor is noticeable but balanced with chocolate and cinnamon.

Can I reduce the fat?

You can try replacing half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce, though the texture will be softer.

What if I don’t have honey?

Maple syrup or agave can be used as a 1:1 substitute.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Adjust bake time as needed, likely around 35–40 minutes.

Are these bars good for breakfast?

Yes, they’re packed with oats and natural ingredients, making them a great grab-and-go breakfast option.

How firm are these bars?

They are soft and slightly chewy, especially when warm. Chilling helps them set firmly for cleaner slicing.

Conclusion

Oatmeal Cookie Bars are the perfect combination of healthy and indulgent. Naturally sweetened, chocolate-studded, and full of hearty oats, they’re great for breakfast, snacking, or dessert. Whether you’re prepping for the week or just want a cozy, homemade treat, these bars are sure to satisfy — all with just one bowl and simple ingredients.