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Naturally Sweetened Banana Tahini Breakfast Bars

These soft and chewy breakfast bars are naturally sweetened with ripe bananas and feature a nutty tahini swirl, making them a wholesome choice for a satisfying start to your day.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Course: Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine: American
Keyword: banana bars, Breakfast Bars, Healthy Snacks, Naturally Sweetened, tahini recipes
Servings: 12 bars
Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

Main ingredients

  • 3 medium ripe bananas The browner, the better for sweetness.
  • 1 cup rolled oats Old fashioned oats give the best chewy texture.
  • 1/2 cup tahini Use smooth, pourable tahini.
  • 2 large eggs For egg free, use two flax eggs.
  • 1 cup grated zucchini Lightly squeeze to remove excess moisture.
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon Adds warmth to the flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract For added flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder For leavening.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt Enhances flavor.

Optional add-ins

  • 1/3 cup chopped walnuts For added texture.
  • 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips For a touch of sweetness.

Instructions

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  • Mash bananas in a large bowl until mostly smooth, leaving a few lumps.
  • Stir in tahini, eggs, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until creamy.
  • Add grated zucchini, oats, baking powder, and salt. Mix until there are no dry pockets of oats.
  • Fold in any optional add-ins, such as walnuts and mini chocolate chips.

Baking

  • For bars: Press the mixture into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 22 to 28 minutes until the middle is set and edges are lightly golden.
  • For cookies: Scoop tablespoons of the mixture onto a sheet pan, gently flatten, and bake for 12 to 15 minutes.

Cooling and serving

  • Allow the bars or cookies to cool before slicing to avoid crumbling.

Notes

These bars can be frosted with a mixture of tahini, maple syrup, a tiny pinch of salt, and vanilla for added sweetness. Store in an airtight container to keep fresh.