Ingredients

2 cups rolled oats (certified gluten-free if necessary)

2 tablespoons ground flax

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup very ripe mashed bananas

1/4 cup honey (substitute with brown rice syrup if vegan)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup chopped dates (or other add-ins of your choice)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350F and prepare an 8 inch x8 inch baking pan by lining it with a sheet of aluminum foil, leaving a few inches of overhang on the sides to allow for easy removal. Grease the foil with cooking spray or oil and set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, flax, cinnamon, and salt. Add mashed bananas, honey, and vanilla, mixing until fully combined.
3. Fold in dates.
4. Pour mixture into prepared baking pan. Using a greased spatula or your hands, spread the mixture evenly in the pan, pressing down firmly.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until top sets and edges begin to turn golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool in pan for 10 minutes before cutting into bars with a sharp knife.