Healthy Oatmeal Cookie Bars

Why You’ll Love Healthy Oatmeal Cookie Bars Recipe

• Naturally sweetened with maple syrup and banana
• Soft and chewy texture with melty chocolate chips
• Easy one-blender recipe with minimal cleanup
• Great for meal prep and grab-and-go snacks
• Packed with fiber and protein
• Kid-friendly and customizable

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2.5 cups oats
• 1/4 cup unflavored collagen powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 medium ripe banana, mashed
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil, softened
• 1 egg
• 1/2 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup chocolate chips, plus extra for topping
• 1/3 cup crushed Oreo crumbs, optional

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a 9×9-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a high-powered blender or food processor, combine oats, collagen powder, baking soda, salt, maple syrup, milk, mashed banana, coconut oil, egg, and vanilla extract.
3. Blend until a smooth batter forms.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
5. Sprinkle in the chocolate chips and crushed Oreo crumbs, then gently fold them into the batter using a spatula.
6. Top with additional chocolate chips if desired.
7. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing into 12 to 16 equal-sized bars.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 16 bars
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Replace chocolate chips with chopped nuts or dried fruit.
• Use peanut butter chips for a richer flavor.
• Add cinnamon for a warm oatmeal-cookie taste.
• Swap Oreos for crushed graham crackers or leave them out entirely.
• Use dark chocolate chips for a less sweet version.
• Add shredded coconut for extra texture.

Storage/Reheating

Store the oatmeal cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

To freeze, wrap individual bars tightly and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

For reheating, microwave a bar for 10 to 15 seconds to make it soft and warm again.

FAQs

Can I make these oatmeal cookie bars vegan?

Yes, replace the egg with a flax egg and use a plant-based milk and vegan chocolate chips.

What can I use instead of collagen powder?

You can substitute protein powder, almond flour, or additional oats.

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, quick oats work well, though the texture may be slightly softer.

Are these bars gluten-free?

They can be if you use certified gluten-free oats and gluten-free cookie crumbs.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

A toothpick inserted into the center should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.

Can I make these without a blender?

Yes, oat flour can be used instead of whole oats, and the batter can be mixed by hand.

Why are my bars too soft?

They may need a few extra minutes of baking or more cooling time to fully set.

Can I add extra protein to this recipe?

Yes, adding protein powder or extra collagen powder works well.

Do the Oreo crumbs make the bars very sweet?

They add extra sweetness and crunch, but the bars are still balanced overall.

Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?

Yes, honey can be used as a substitute for maple syrup in equal amounts.

Conclusion

These Healthy Oatmeal Cookie Bars are the perfect balance of wholesome and indulgent. With simple ingredients, easy preparation, and plenty of customization options, they make a satisfying snack or dessert you’ll want to keep on hand all week long.