Ingredients:

• 2 ripe bananas, mashed

• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup

• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce

• 1 large egg

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats

• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (or your preferred chocolate chips)

• 1/4 cup chopped nuts or seeds (e.g., walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds), optional

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8x8-inch baking pan.

1. Mash Bananas:

• In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork or potato masher until smooth.

1. Add Wet Ingredients:

• To the mashed bananas, add honey (or maple syrup), applesauce, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix well until the wet ingredients are thoroughly combined.

1. Combine Dry Ingredients:

• In a separate bowl, mix together the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.

1. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:

• Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until well combined.

1. Fold in Chocolate Chips and Nuts:

• Gently fold in the chocolate chips and chopped nuts or seeds, if using.

1. Spread in Pan:

• Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan.

1. Bake:

• Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

1. Cool and Cut:

• Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut into squares or bars.

1. Store:

• Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days or refrigerate for longer freshness.