Banana Honey Oat Bars

1Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

2In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas (2) thoroughly until smooth.

3Add the honey (¼ cup), banana milk (¼ cup), and vanilla extract (½ teaspoon) to the mashed bananas. Stir well to combine.

4In a separate bowl, mix the rolled oats (2 cups), ground cinnamon (¼ teaspoon), and salt (¼ teaspoon).

5Gradually add the dry oat mixture to the wet banana mixture, stirring until fully combined. If using, fold in chopped nuts or dried fruit at this stage.

6Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly, pressing down gently to compact the mixture.

7Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and the center is set but still chewy.

8Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan and cut into 9 equal squares.

9Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. These bars make a perfect on-the-go snack or breakfast option.