Oat and Banana Bites are the perfect fusion of wholesome oats, ripe bananas, and crunchy nuts, creating a delightful and healthy snack that’s perfect for breakfast, an on-the-go snack, or even as a light dessert. This recipe is not only nutritious but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite fruits and nuts. Packed with fiber from the oats and the natural sweetness of bananas and cranberries, these bites offer a balanced combination of nutrients to keep you energized throughout the day.
Bananas, rich in potassium and natural sugars, bring a sweet creaminess that balances well with the crunch of oats and nuts. Meanwhile, the addition of yogurt adds moisture and a subtle tang that enhances the overall flavor. Whether you’re looking for a simple snack for your family or a healthy treat to take to work, these Oat and Banana Bites are sure to become a household favorite.
Ingredients
- 100 g oat flakes (about 1 cup)
- 30 g oat flakes (about 1/4 cup)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 apple, grated
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- 25 g nuts (pecans or walnuts), chopped
- A pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 banana, mashed
- 120 g yogurt (about 1/2 cup)
- 40 ml vegetable oil (about 3 tablespoons)
- 30 g dried cranberries (about 1/4 cup)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
First, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Proper oven temperature is crucial to ensure that the bites bake evenly. Meanwhile, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly with a neutral oil to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 100 g of oat flakes and 30 g of oat flakes, the cinnamon, salt, and baking powder. Stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed. The combination of oats and cinnamon adds depth and warmth to the flavor, while baking powder ensures the bites will rise slightly, providing a light texture.
3. Prepare the Fruit
In a separate bowl, grate the apple and mash the bananas until smooth. The ripe bananas act as a natural sweetener, replacing the need for additional sugar, while the grated apple provides moisture and a slight tartness. Add the grated apple and mashed bananas to the dry ingredients, and stir until they are fully incorporated.
4. Combine Wet Ingredients
Next, fold in the yogurt, vegetable oil, and dried cranberries. The yogurt brings creaminess and a slight tang, while the oil helps bind the ingredients together, creating a tender bite. Stir everything together until the mixture becomes thick and sticky. At this point, it should hold together but still be soft enough to shape into small rounds.
5. Add the Nuts
Now, it’s time to fold in the chopped nuts. You can use either pecans or walnuts, depending on your preference. The nuts provide a satisfying crunch and contribute healthy fats to the recipe. Be sure to mix them in well so that each bite gets a bit of that nutty texture.
6. Form the Bites
Using a tablespoon, scoop out portions of the mixture and gently shape them into small rounds or cookie shapes with your hands. If you find the mixture sticking to your hands, lightly dampen them with water. Place the rounds onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a small space between each one. They won’t spread much during baking, so you don’t need too much room.
7. Bake to Perfection
Place the tray into the preheated oven and bake the oat and banana bites for 20-30 minutes, depending on your desired texture. If you prefer a softer, chewier bite, 20 minutes will be enough. For a crispier texture, especially around the edges, leave them in closer to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on them towards the end to prevent over-baking.
8. Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the bites from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. This allows them to firm up slightly before you transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, they are ready to be enjoyed.
Tips for Best Results
- Toppings: For an added touch, top each bite with a thin banana slice or a pecan half before baking. This not only enhances the appearance but also adds a bit of extra flavor.
- Storage: These Oat and Banana Bites can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to a month.
- Customizations: Feel free to swap out the cranberries for other dried fruits like raisins or chopped dates, or use different nuts like almonds or hazelnuts for variety.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Servings: Makes approximately 15-18 bites
- Calories: 130 kcal
- Protein: 3 g
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Sugars: 7 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sodium: 50 mg
Conclusion
These Oat and Banana Bites are a delightful blend of wholesome ingredients, offering a nutritious snack that satisfies both your sweet cravings and your need for energy. They are packed with fiber, healthy fats, and natural sugars, making them a great choice for busy mornings, post-workout snacks, or even a guilt-free dessert.
We hope this recipe becomes a staple in your kitchen, providing a delicious, healthy option that everyone will love. Enjoy!
