Banana Bran Bars
Chewy, nutritious banana bran bars combine the sweetness of ripe banana with warm cinnamon and crunchy walnuts, perfect for a healthy snack or breakfast on the go.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Spray an 8 x 8 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a medium bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and crushed bran cereal. Mix well.
- In a small bowl, combine skim milk, egg substitute, shredded carrot, mashed banana, and chopped walnuts.
- Add the milk mixture to the dry ingredients and mix well until combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Bake for 25-35 minutes or until lightly browned.
- Remove from oven and let cool slightly before cutting into 6 bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For added moisture and flavor, consider using mashed sweet potatoes in place of the banana. You can also substitute the egg substitute with unsweetened applesauce for a vegan version. If you prefer a bit of texture, try adding some raisins or dried cranberries to the mix. Adjust the cinnamon to your taste for a more pronounced flavor. These bars can also be made with whole wheat flour for a healthier twist.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are delicious enjoyed on their own or served with a dollop of yogurt on the side for a nutritious breakfast. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a delightful snack, try them alongside a fruit salad. You can also serve them as a healthy dessert option, perhaps with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup on top.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Banana Bran Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Banana Bran Bars contains roughly 558 calories, with 16g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (56% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (54% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2068mg per serving (90% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular milk instead of skim milk?
Yes, you can use any type of milk you prefer. Whole milk or almond milk works well in this recipe, just keep in mind that using whole milk may result in a richer texture.
Can I freeze Banana Bran Bars?
Absolutely! You can freeze these bars for up to 3 months. Wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.
What can I substitute for the walnuts?
If you have nut allergies or prefer not to use walnuts, you can substitute them with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free option. You can also omit them altogether if desired.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).