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Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Oatmeal Muffins: The Ultimate Hiking Snack!

Lauren Gastineau

September 4, 2024

I'm Lauren

Hi friend, I’m Lauren! I am an adventure blogger based in Bend, OR. Welcome to your ultimate destination for discovering your next hiking trail, beginner backpacking tips, exploring destination guides, embracing clean girl beauty, and uncovering game changing gear.

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Wholesome and delicious, these soft-baked oatmeal muffins are packed with peanut butter, banana, and honey—perfect for a quick, healthy snack on the go. They’re ideal for hiking, backpacking, or just enjoying a healthy treat at home! Studded with chocolate chips, these cookies combine the best of both worlds: the indulgent taste of banana bread and the chewy texture of oatmeal.

These oatmeal muffins make a fantastic portable snack for any adventure—whether you’re hitting the trails, heading out on the water, or just looking for an easy, nutritious bite during your busy workday. They also make a great choice for a wholesome dessert!

Serving Size: 12 muffins

Prep
10 minutes
Cook:
25 minutes
Total:
35 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 1 cup whole wheat flour
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1.5 cups milk (I use 2% cow’s milk)
  • 3 tablespoons honey (add more if you like it sweeter)
  • 2 tablespoons peanut butter (I prefer natural crunchy)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
  • 3 medium-large bananas, mashed
  • 1/3 cup chocolate chips or chunks (I like chopping up a chocolate bar—add more for extra chocolatey goodness)

Optional Mix-Ins: Toasted pecans, walnuts, chopped chocolate peanut butter cups, date pieces, shredded coconut

Baking Equipment:

Instructions:

1. Preparation: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place a rack in the center. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with liners and set aside.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the oats, flour, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

3. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas (leave some lumps for texture if you like!). Add the milk, honey, peanut butter, egg, and vanilla. Stir until all wet ingredients are well blended.

4. Combine the Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, folding in 1/3 at a time, until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep the muffins tender.

5. Add the Chocolate and Mix-Ins: Fold in the chocolate chips or chunks, along with any additional mix-ins you like.

6. Assemble and Bake: Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. Cool and Store: Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack for another 10 minutes.
Store in an airtight container or reusable bag. Keep refrigerated for up to a week or at room temperature for 2-3 days.

Storage Tips:

For longer shelf life, freeze the muffins in a sealed container or bag for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven before enjoying!

Hiking Snack Ideas

Fueling your adventures doesn’t stop at mealtime. Discover a selection of easy, tasty, and packable snack ideas that will keep your energy levels high on the trail. From protein-packed bites to satisfy your hunger between hikes to lightweight treats for a quick energy boost, these snacks are perfect for any backpacking trip. Whether you’re trekking through the mountains or enjoying a leisurely day hike, these snack ideas will ensure you’re ready for whatever the trail throws your way.

Whether you’re fueling up for a day of adventure or just need a tasty, healthy snack, these oatmeal muffins have you covered. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, they’re sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Give them a try and enjoy the satisfying blend of flavors and wholesome ingredients—your taste buds and body will thank you!

Leaving Notes

Thank you for joining me on this journey! I’m excited for you to experience all the adventures ahead. I hope you’re doing well, and I appreciate your support more than you know.

Here’s your reminder to get outside this weekend!

If you’re enjoying this blog and want to support me for free, you can:

  • Like this post 💕
  • Comment or DM me with your questions about planning your next trip to Bend, OR.
  • Share this blog post with your friends and family who might also love to visit Bend.
  • Shop through my REI link for all your outdoor adventure needs!

See you in the next adventure!

Happiest Outside,

Lauren (@laurensbigadventure)

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Hi, I'm Lauren

My mission is to ignite your adventurous spirit, encouraging you to step outside, discover the wonders of the world, and uncover happiness in the great outdoors...

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