This Banana Cocoa Oatmeal Cake is a rich and wholesome dessert that combines the goodness of oatmeal, the sweetness of bananas, and the indulgence of cocoa and chocolate. The addition of walnuts gives the cake a delightful crunch, while the dark chocolate drizzle adds a layer of decadence. Perfect for a cozy afternoon tea or as a light dessert, this cake is not only easy to make but also offers a satisfying and nutritious treat that’s full of flavor.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Ingredients
-
For the Cake:
- 150g oatmeal
- 150ml milk
- 2 eggs
- 2 ripe bananas (mashed)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- Vegetable oil (for greasing the pan)
-
For the Topping:
- 50g walnuts (chopped)
- 100g dark chocolate
- 3 tablespoons hot milk (for melting the chocolate)
Directions
-
Prepare Oatmeal Mixture:
- Combine Oatmeal and Milk: In a bowl, combine 150g of oatmeal with 150ml of milk. Let it soak for 10 minutes to soften the oats.
-
Mix Wet Ingredients:
- Add Eggs and Bananas: Once the oatmeal has soaked, add 2 eggs, 2 mashed bananas, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the mixture. Mix well until fully combined.
-
Add Dry Ingredients:
- Add Cocoa and Baking Powder: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt to the mixture. Mix thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.
-
Prepare Baking Pan:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 180°C (360°F).
- Grease Pan: Grease a baking pan with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
-
Pour Batter:
- Pour the Batter: Pour the prepared batter into the greased baking pan and level the top for an even bake.
-
Bake Cake:
- Bake in the Preheated Oven: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
-
Prepare Walnuts and Chocolate:
- Chop Walnuts: While the cake is baking, chop 50g of walnuts and set them aside.
- Melt Chocolate: In a small saucepan, melt 100g of dark chocolate with 3 tablespoons of hot milk, stirring until smooth and glossy.
-
Decorate the Cake:
- Once the cake is baked and slightly cooled, drizzle the melted chocolate over the top of the cake.
- Sprinkle the chopped walnuts over the chocolate drizzle.
- For an added touch, decorate again with a drizzle of melted chocolate.
-
Serve:
- Serve the cake warm or at room temperature for a delicious dessert or snack.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy this cake with a warm cup of tea, especially one flavored with orange slices, black tea, boiling water, and honey for a comforting pairing.
- It also makes a great addition to a brunch or a picnic spread, offering a delicious and nutritious option for guests.
- For an extra indulgence, serve the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Cooking Tips
- Soaking Oats: Allowing the oatmeal to soak for a few minutes softens the oats, ensuring the cake has a pleasant texture. Don’t skip this step!
- Banana Ripeness: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful the cake will be. Overripe bananas are perfect for this recipe.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Feel free to use milk chocolate or dark chocolate, depending on your preference for sweetness. You can also add a pinch of cinnamon to the melted chocolate for extra warmth.
Nutritional Benefits
- High in Fiber: Oatmeal and bananas provide a good source of dietary fiber, which promotes healthy digestion and keeps you feeling full.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals.
- Natural Sweeteners: Bananas provide natural sweetness, reducing the need for added sugar in the recipe.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: Yes, this recipe is vegetarian.
- Gluten-Free Option: Ensure the oats are certified gluten-free to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Low in Sugar: The natural sugars from bananas help keep the cake low in added sugar.
Storage Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate it for up to a week. Reheat slices in the microwave for a warm treat, or enjoy cold.
Conclusion This Banana Cocoa Oatmeal Cake with Walnuts and Chocolate Drizzle is a delightful, wholesome dessert that combines the richness of cocoa with the natural sweetness of bananas and the nuttiness of walnuts. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, this cake is perfect for any occasion, from a cozy afternoon snack to a special gathering. With its light yet satisfying texture and decadent topping, it’s sure to be a hit with friends and family alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use a different type of milk for this recipe? Yes, you can use any type of milk you prefer, such as almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
-
Can I add other nuts to this cake? Absolutely! You can use chopped pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts in place of or in addition to walnuts.
-
Can I make this cake without eggs? Yes, you can substitute the eggs with flaxseed or chia seed eggs. Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed or chia seeds with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg.
-
Can I make the cake without cocoa powder? If you don’t have cocoa powder, you can leave it out for a lighter flavor, or substitute it with a little cinnamon for a warm spice profile.
-
Can I freeze this cake? Yes, this cake freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
-
Can I make this cake vegan? Yes, you can easily make this cake vegan by using plant-based milk, a flax or chia egg, and vegan chocolate.
-
What other fruits can I add to the cake? You can add other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or diced apples to enhance the flavor and texture of the cake.
-
How do I know when the cake is done? The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
-
Can I add a layer of frosting to this cake? Yes, if you prefer a richer dessert, you can top the cake with cream cheese frosting or whipped cream.
-
Can I serve this cake as a breakfast? Yes, this cake can be served as a wholesome breakfast, especially when paired with a cup of coffee or tea. It’s light yet filling, providing a good balance of nutrients to start the day.