Begin by finely chopping the walnuts and dried apricots. This ensures that they mix evenly throughout the bars and that each bite is packed with flavor.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the oatmeal, raisins, chopped walnuts, and dried apricots. Stir them together so that all the dry ingredients are well mixed.
Prepare the Banana Mixture:
Peel the banana and mash it thoroughly until it becomes a smooth puree. This will act as the binding agent for the bars and add natural sweetness.
Add the mashed banana to the dry ingredients. Mix well, ensuring that all the ingredients are fully incorporated and the banana is evenly distributed. The mixture should be somewhat sticky but manageable.
Transfer to Baking Pan:
Line a 25×15 cm (10×6 inch) baking pan with parchment paper. This prevents the bars from sticking and makes it easier to remove them once they’re baked.
Press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to compact it firmly, ensuring an even surface. This helps the bars hold their shape after baking.
Bake the Bars:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. The bars should become golden brown and firm to the touch. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking, as you want them to stay chewy.
Prepare the Chocolate Coating:
While the bars are baking, melt the dark chocolate. You can do this using a double boiler, microwave, or any other convenient method. If using a microwave, heat in short bursts of 20 seconds, stirring in between until fully melted.
Add 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil to the melted chocolate. This helps to smooth the chocolate and make it easier to spread.
Finish the Bars:
Once the bars are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
Pour the melted chocolate over the bars, spreading it evenly with a spatula. The chocolate adds a delicious finishing touch and makes the bars even more indulgent.
Transfer the pan to the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 40 minutes. This allows the chocolate to set and the bars to firm up.
Cut and Serve:
After chilling, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper and transfer them to a cutting board.
Cut into pieces of your desired size. These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, or you can freeze them for longer storage.
Cooking Tips
Banana Ripeness: Ensure your banana is ripe for the best flavor and sweetness. Overripe bananas work best as they are softer and sweeter.
Mix Thoroughly: Mix the ingredients thoroughly to ensure the banana evenly coats the dry ingredients, which helps in binding the bars together.
Compact the Mixture: Press the mixture firmly into the pan to ensure the bars hold their shape and don’t crumble when cut.
Even Baking: Check the bars towards the end of the baking time to ensure they are evenly cooked. They should be golden brown and firm, not soft.
Nutritional Benefits
Oatmeal: Provides a great source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps to maintain steady blood sugar levels. Oats are also rich in antioxidants and vitamins.
Raisins: Packed with iron, potassium, and antioxidants, raisins add natural sweetness and energy to the bars.
Walnuts: High in omega-3 fatty acids, walnuts support heart health and provide a good source of protein and essential vitamins.
Dried Apricots: Rich in vitamin A and iron, dried apricots support eye health and help in maintaining healthy red blood cells.
Banana: Offers a quick energy boost and is high in potassium, which is essential for heart health and muscle function.
Dark Chocolate: Contains antioxidants and has less sugar than milk chocolate, making it a healthier option that can also boost mood and brain function.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and Easy: This recipe is straightforward and can be prepared in just a few minutes. The baking time is relatively short, making it a convenient option for busy schedules.
No Added Sugar: Utilizing the natural sweetness of bananas and raisins, this recipe avoids added sugars, making it a healthier choice.
Customizable: Feel free to adjust the ingredients to your liking. Add other nuts, seeds, or dried fruits to make the bars unique to your taste.
Versatile Snack: These bars are perfect for a quick breakfast, an on-the-go snack, or a pre-workout boost. They are also great for kids and adults alike.
