This Banana Oat Bread with Chocolate Topping is a perfect combination of natural sweetness from ripe bananas and the wholesome goodness of oats, topped off with a rich, melty chocolate glaze. It’s a healthy and indulgent bread that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. The oat flakes provide a hearty, satisfying texture, while the cocoa and chocolate chips add a decadent touch. Whether you’re looking for a breakfast treat, an afternoon snack, or a dessert, this banana oat bread is sure to delight with every bite. The optional walnuts give it an extra crunch, but feel free to customize it to your preference. It’s also a great way to use up overripe bananas!
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Ingredients
For the Bread:
- 120g oat flakes (3/4 cup + 1 tbsp)
- 200ml hot milk (5/6 cup)
- 2 eggs (optional, can be substituted with corn or cassava starch)
- 2 ripe bananas
- Vanillin (optional)
- 40g bitter cocoa (1/2 cup)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Walnuts (optional)
- Chocolate chips (optional)
For the Topping:
- 100g chocolate (1/2 cup + 2 tbsp)
- 40ml boiling milk (3 tbsp)
Directions
1. Prepare the Bread:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the oat flakes and hot milk. Let the oats soak for about 5 minutes to soften.
- Mash the two ripe bananas in a separate bowl until smooth.
- If using eggs, beat them in a small bowl and add them to the banana mixture. Alternatively, if you’re substituting eggs with corn or cassava starch, mix the starch with water according to package instructions and add it to the bananas.
- Stir in the vanillin (if using), cocoa powder, and baking powder into the banana mixture.
- Add the soaked oats to the banana mixture and mix until everything is well combined. If you want to add walnuts or chocolate chips, fold them into the batter at this stage.
2. Bake the Bread:
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Prepare the Topping:
- While the bread is cooling, prepare the chocolate topping. In a heatproof bowl, break the chocolate into small pieces.
- Add 40ml of boiling milk to the chocolate and stir until the chocolate melts and becomes smooth.
- Once the bread has cooled, pour the melted chocolate over the top, allowing it to drizzle down the sides.
4. Serve:
- Slice the bread once the chocolate has set, and serve! Enjoy it as a snack, breakfast, or dessert.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a cup of coffee or tea for a perfect morning or afternoon treat.
- Pair with fresh fruit or yogurt for a light and balanced meal.
- Top with extra chocolate chips for a more indulgent version of this bread.
Cooking Tips
- Soaking the oats: Soaking the oats in hot milk helps them soften and absorb the liquid, giving the bread a soft texture.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter bread, feel free to add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the banana mixture.
- Make it dairy-free: Use plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk) and dairy-free chocolate if you’re following a dairy-free diet.
- Test doneness with a toothpick: Ensure the bread is fully baked by inserting a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Variations to Try
- Add berries: Mix in some fresh or frozen berries (such as blueberries or raspberries) for a fruity twist.
- Use different nuts: Try adding chopped almonds, pecans, or hazelnuts instead of walnuts for a different flavor.
- Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Vegan version: Omit the eggs and use flax or chia seeds mixed with water to replace the eggs for a vegan version.
Nutritional Benefits
This Banana Oat Bread with Chocolate Topping is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Oats are a good source of fiber, which helps with digestion and keeps you feeling full longer. Bananas provide potassium, vitamin B6, and vitamin C, making them a healthy addition to the bread. The addition of walnuts adds healthy fats and protein, while the chocolate topping offers a rich, antioxidant boost. Overall, this bread provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and protein, making it a satisfying and nutritious choice.
Conclusion
This Banana Oat Bread with Chocolate Topping is a delightful and indulgent treat that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the richness of chocolate. It’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert, and the optional walnuts and chocolate chips make it customizable to suit your taste. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy, flavorful treat while satisfying your sweet tooth.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I make this bread without eggs? Yes, you can substitute the eggs with corn or cassava starch mixed with water to help bind the ingredients together.
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Can I freeze this bread? Yes, this bread freezes well. Just slice it and store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for a warm, fresh taste.
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Can I use regular sugar instead of vanilla sugar? Yes, you can substitute vanilla sugar with regular sugar, or use a tablespoon of vanilla extract for added flavor.
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How can I make this bread sweeter? If you prefer a sweeter bread, you can add honey, maple syrup, or an extra ripe banana for added sweetness.
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Can I use other types of flour? Yes, you can substitute part or all of the oat flakes with whole wheat flour or almond flour if you prefer a different type of flour.