Banana oat granola bars: Fuel your ride with natural energy

These homemade banana oat granola bars are a delightful combination of wholesome ingredients designed to provide sustained energy for your cycling adventures.

Packed with nutritious oats and the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, these bars are not only delicious but also incredibly simple to make. Prepare them in less than 30 minutes and enjoy the perfect pre-ride or on-the-bike snack.

Ingredients

• 2 ripe bananas

• 2 cups rolled oats

• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (e.g., almonds, walnuts, or your preferred variety)

• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (for a vegan option)

• 1/4 cup nut butter (e.g., almond butter, peanut butter)

• 1/4 cup dried fruits (e.g., raisins, cranberries, or chopped dates)

• 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a rectangular baking dish or line it with parchment paper.

2. In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth and creamy. Add the honey (or maple syrup) and nut butter, then mix well until the ingredients are thoroughly combined.

3. Stir in the rolled oats, chopped nuts, dried fruits, shredded coconut, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Continue mixing until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.

4. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, and using a spatula or your hands, press it down firmly to create an even layer.

5. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown.

6. Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. This allows the bars to set before cutting.

7. Once cooled, carefully slice the mixture into rectangular bars or squares, depending on your preference. If you desire smaller portions, cut them into bite-sized pieces.

8. For easy storage and convenience during your cycling trips, individually wrap the bars in wax paper or place them in an airtight container.

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Enjoy these delicious homemade bars as a pre-ride snack to fuel your body or as a delicious on-the-bike treat during longer rides. Embrace the natural goodness of whole ingredients and savour the wholesome flavours they offer.

Note: Feel free to customise this recipe by adding your favourite ingredients such as chia seeds, dark chocolate chips, or a sprinkle of your preferred spices for an extra kick of flavour.