Mila’s No-Sugar Banana + Blueberry Oat Bars

Does anyone else find it hard to think of creative but simple recipes to give your little one? I know I do. This period of self-isolation has really brought to my attention that I give my 9 month-old daughter pretty much the same breakfast almost every day… So, if you also feel this way, you’re not alone!

Oats are something that I try to incorporate into Mila’s weekly diet. They are easy, babies tend to love them, they are high in fiber and overall just very nutritious. These oat bars are perfect for anyone who is giving baby-led weaning a go, because they are firm enough for babies to hold in their hand, but completely soft enough for them to take a bite and chew easily. You can introduce rolled oats to babies who are at least 6 months old, however they could also be enjoyed by toddlers/older children as well.

These oat bars are vegan, have no added sugar, only require 4 ingredients, and literally take 5 minutes to rustle up - perfect for the working mum, on-the-go, or if you just have a stage 5 clinger (like me) LOL. You can make a batch, store them in the fridge and there you have it - breakfast and/or healthy snacks for the week!

Ingredients

• 1 ripe banana

• 1 cup rolled/old fashioned oats

• Handful of chopped blueberries and/or raisons

• Sprinkle of cinnamon

Directions

• Preheat oven to 350F (175C)

• In a medium bowl, mash the banana first, then add the rest of the ingredients. Mix together well.

• Line a baking tray with parchment paper. Use a tablespoon to scoop the mixture into bar-like shapes onto the baking tray. I used my hands to shape them how I wanted them once they were on the tray, before putting them in the oven.

• Bake for 10-15 minutes, until firm and lightly golden.

• Make sure to let them cool before giving them to your child.

*You can store these oat bars in an air-tight container for 3-5 days.