Βars oats with prunes “Despina”

Ingredients: 

• 2 large, very ripe bananas
• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1/4 cup pitted, chopped dried prunes (could also use dates)
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (I used walnuts but could use hazelnuts or pecans)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (optional)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon or nutmeg (optional)
• handful of dark chocolate chips (optional)

Directions:

•  Heat oven to 180°C and lightly grease a 23x23cm baking dish.
• Peel bananas and mash until no large chunks remain. Stir in vanilla, if using, and oats. Next stir in salt, dates and nuts.
• Pat the mixture evenly into the baking pan. Sprinkle with nutmeg/cinnamon, chocolate chips, coconut or whatever else you desire. Bake for 30 minutes or until edges begin to crisp.
• Place the baking pan on a rack to cool. Once cool, cut into bars and enjoy with a glass of milk or tea.                                                                                                                                                                                                    

Ideal snack for children