Name: Banana Walnut Bars Vegan
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 3 medium Ripe Bananas (mashed); 2 cups Rolled Oats; 1 cup Whole Wheat Flour (or gluten-free flour); 1 cup Walnuts (chopped); 1/3 cup Maple Syrup; 1/2 cup Almond Milk (or any plant-based milk); 1 tbsp Baking Powder; 1 tsp Cinnamon; 1/4 tsp Salt

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There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, chewy bar packed with the rich flavors of banana and walnut. These Banana Walnut Bars Vegan are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert, they are a wholesome treat that everyone can enjoy. The combination of ripe bananas and crunchy walnuts creates a satisfying texture and flavor, making these bars a must-try for any plant-based diet.

Why Cooks Rave About It

Banana Walnut Bars Vegan have been a favorite among home cooks for several reasons. First, they are incredibly simple to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and effort. The bars are naturally sweetened with ripe bananas, eliminating the need for refined sugars. The addition of walnuts not only provides a delightful crunch but also adds healthy fats and protein. Plus, they are versatile; you can enjoy them as they are or customize them with your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruits. These bars are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to grab a nutritious snack on the go.

Ingredient Rundown

To make these delicious Banana Walnut Bars Vegan, you will need the following ingredients:

Ripe Bananas: The star of the show! Use overripe bananas for maximum sweetness and flavor.
Rolled Oats: A great base that adds fiber and heartiness to the bars.
Whole Wheat Flour: Provides structure; you can substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.
Walnuts: Chopped for added crunch and healthy fats. Feel free to replace with pecans or almonds if desired.
Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener that enhances the banana flavor without overpowering it.
Almond Milk: A dairy-free liquid to moisten the mixture; any plant-based milk works.
Baking Powder: For a little lift and fluffiness in the bars.
Cinnamon: A warm spice that complements the bananas beautifully.
Salt: To balance the flavors.

Prep & Cook Tools

To whip up these Banana Walnut Bars Vegan, gather the following tools:

Mixing Bowl: For combining all your ingredients.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure the right quantities.
Fork or Potato Masher: For mashing bananas to a smooth consistency.
Spatula: To mix and spread the batter evenly in the baking pan.
Baking Pan (9×9 inch): The perfect size for these bars.
Parchment Paper: For lining the baking pan to prevent sticking.

Cooking Banana Walnut Bars Vegan: The Process

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the bars cook evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.

Step 3: Mash the Bananas

In a mixing bowl, use a fork or potato masher to mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Aim for a consistency similar to applesauce.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

Add the almond milk and maple syrup to the mashed bananas, mixing until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the dry ingredients into the bowl with the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bars tender.

Step 7: Fold in Walnuts

Gently fold in the chopped walnuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 8: Bake

Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool and Slice

Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Let them cool completely on a wire rack before slicing into squares or bars.

Fit It to Your Goals

These Banana Walnut Bars Vegan can easily be adapted to suit various dietary preferences and goals:

Gluten-Free: Substitute whole wheat flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
Nut-Free: Omit walnuts and use seeds, such as sunflower seeds, for added crunch.
Lower Sugar: Reduce the amount of maple syrup if you prefer a less sweet bar.
Protein Boost: Add a scoop of your favorite plant-based protein powder to the dry ingredients.

Watch Outs & How to Fix

While making these Banana Walnut Bars Vegan, keep these common pitfalls in mind:

Overripe Bananas: While overripe bananas work best, avoid using bananas that are too far gone as they may affect the texture.
Baking Time: Every oven is different; check the bars a few minutes early to prevent overbaking.
Too Moist: If the bars feel too moist after baking, return them to the oven for a few more minutes.
Sticking to the Pan: Ensure you line the pan well with parchment paper and also lightly grease it for easy removal.

Storing Tips & Timelines

To keep your Banana Walnut Bars Vegan fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:

Room Temperature: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigerator: For longer storage, keep the bars in the fridge for up to a week.
Freezing: These bars freeze well! Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Common Questions

Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute walnuts with any nuts you prefer, such as pecans, almonds, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.

Can I add chocolate chips to the recipe?

Definitely! Adding vegan chocolate chips can enhance the flavor and make these bars even more indulgent. Just fold them in along with the walnuts.

What can I use instead of maple syrup?

If you don’t have maple syrup on hand, agave syrup or brown rice syrup are great alternatives to achieve a similar sweetness.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free.

Healthy-ish Favorites

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Make It Tonight

With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up these delightful Banana Walnut Bars Vegan tonight. They offer a nutritious option for breakfast or a satisfying snack that will keep you energized throughout the day. Plus, the aroma of baked bananas and walnuts will fill your kitchen, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that everyone will love. So gather your ingredients, and let’s bake a batch of these delicious bars that are sure to become a family favorite!

Banana Walnut Bars Vegan are a fantastic way to enjoy a wholesome treat that doesn’t skimp on flavor or nutrition. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or keeping them all to yourself, these bars are a delicious addition to your recipe repertoire. Happy baking!