Almond Butter Banana Oat Squares

Almond Butter Banana Oat Squares are not just a delicious treat; they’re also packed with nutrients! These squares are perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. They combine the creamy goodness of almond butter with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and the wholesome texture of oats. Plus, they’re easy to make and require minimal ingredients. What’s not to love?

What You’ll Need for Almond Butter Banana Oat Squares

To whip up these delightful squares, gather the following ingredients:

Complete Ingredients List

• 2 ripe bananas
• 1/2 cup almond butter
• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup almond milk
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional, for topping)

Ingredient Substitutions & Alternatives

If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, here are some substitutions you can consider:

• For a nut-free version, use sunflower seed butter instead of almond butter.
• Maple syrup can be replaced with agave syrup for a vegan option.
• Use gluten-free oats if you need a gluten-free recipe.
• For added flavor, consider mixing in chocolate chips or dried fruits.

How to Make Almond Butter Banana Oat Squares

Now that you have your ingredients, let’s dive into the steps to create these tasty squares:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), and almond milk. Stir until well combined and smooth.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt together until evenly distributed.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. The mixture should be thick but moist. If desired, fold in half of the chopped nuts at this stage.

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Press down gently to ensure it holds together.

Step 6: Add Toppings

Drizzle a little extra almond butter on top and sprinkle the remaining chopped nuts over the mixture. You can also add a light dusting of cinnamon for extra flavor.

Step 7: Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Cut

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Use the parchment overhang to lift the squares out of the pan and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, cut into neat rectangles.

Serving Suggestions for Almond Butter Banana Oat Squares

How to Serve Almond Butter Banana Oat Squares

Enjoy the Almond Butter Banana Oat Squares warm or at room temperature. They can be served as a healthy snack or a quick breakfast option. For presentation, cut them into neat squares and arrange them on a platter.

Perfect Pairings & Toppings

These squares pair wonderfully with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of extra almond butter. You can also serve them alongside fresh fruit or a smoothie for a complete meal. For a special touch, consider adding a sprinkle of chia seeds or a drizzle of honey on top before serving.

Storing & Preserving Almond Butter Banana Oat Squares

Best Storage Methods

Store the Almond Butter Banana Oat Squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Reheating or Freezing Tips

To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds until warm. If you want to freeze them, wrap each square individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying.

Tips for Perfect Almond Butter Banana Oat Squares Every Time

Avoid These Common Mistakes

To ensure your Almond Butter Banana Oat Squares turn out perfectly, avoid overmixing the batter, as this can lead to dense squares. Also, make sure your bananas are ripe for the best flavor and sweetness.

Helpful Tricks for Success

For a chewier texture, let the squares cool completely before cutting. You can also experiment with different nut butters or add-ins like dried fruits or seeds for a unique twist.

Fun Variations of Almond Butter Banana Oat Squares

Flavor Variations or Recipe Twists

Consider adding chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or shredded coconut to the mixture for a fun twist. You can also try different spices like nutmeg or cardamom for added flavor.

Dietary-Friendly Adjustments

To make these squares vegan, ensure you use maple syrup instead of honey. For a gluten-free option, simply use certified gluten-free oats. You can also substitute almond milk with any plant-based milk of your choice.

FAQs

What If My Almond Butter Banana Oat Squares Doesn’t Turn Out Right?

If your squares are too dry, it may be due to overbaking. Make sure to check them a few minutes before the suggested baking time. If they are too wet, try adding a bit more oats next time.

Can I Prepare This in Advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it fresh when you’re ready to enjoy.

What Ingredients Can I Swap?

You can swap almond butter for any nut or seed butter, and honey can be replaced with agave syrup or brown rice syrup for a vegan option. Feel free to get creative with the add-ins!

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