April 26, 2012

Nutty Banana Oatmeal Squares

I just LOVE bananas and cinnamon together. The smell of bananas, vanilla and cinnamon baking in the oven is so heavenly and weirdly relaxing and comforting for me. This recipe was sent to me from my friend Jenna (Thanks Jenna!!). I finished a study guide yesterday between classes so I felt that I deserved to take a break, makes these deliciously amazing bars and share them with my class.

Also, if you have ever seen this….

…on the shelves at the grocery store and walk passed it, Stop! Turn around and put it in your cart. Jenna suggested that I spread this all over the bars and eat so of course I did. AND IT IS AMAZING! Just do it!

Nutty Banana Oatmeal Squares

(Revised from Gingerbread Bagels)

Ingredients:

1 1/2 cups quick cooking oats
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (if your nut butter has salt, you might want to omit)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup skim milk
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1 large banana, mashed
1/4 cup creamy almond butter (or your favorite nut butter)
nonstick cooking spray

Method:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Spray an 8x8 inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray; set aside. Mix together the oats, brown sugar, baking powder, salt and cinnamon.

Add in the vanilla, milk and egg. Mix all the ingredients together.

Add the mashed banana and nut butter. Combine all ingredients.

Pour into the prepared baking pan. Spread the mixture evenly. I lightly dropped my pan on the counter a few times to even it. Bake for 20 minutes or until the top is set and is lightly browned.