This Healthy Banana Cocoa Oatmeal Bake is a delightful and nutritious treat that’s perfect for breakfast or as a snack. Packed with wholesome ingredients like oatmeal, bananas, and cocoa, it’s easy to make and sure to satisfy your sweet tooth without any added sugar.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 6-8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup (90g) oatmeal
- 240 ml (1 cup) water
- 2 eggs
- A pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon stevia sweetener (or your preferred sweetener)
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Avocado oil (for greasing)
Directions
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Grease a baking dish (approximately 20×20 cm or 8×8 inches) with avocado oil.
2. Prepare the Mixture:
- Soak the Oats: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of oatmeal with 240 ml of water. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the oats to absorb the water and soften.
- Mash the Bananas: Mash the 2 bananas until smooth and add them to the oatmeal mixture.
- Mix Ingredients: Add 2 eggs, a pinch of salt, 1 tablespoon of stevia sweetener, 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder, and 1 teaspoon of baking powder to the oatmeal and banana mixture. Stir well until all ingredients are fully combined and the mixture is smooth.
3. Bake:
- Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the top is firm and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
4. Serve:
- Allow the bake to cool slightly in the dish before cutting into squares.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions:
- With Greek Yogurt: Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt for added creaminess and protein.
- With Fresh Berries: Pair with fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of flavor.
- With a Drizzle: Add a drizzle of honey, maple syrup, or nut butter for extra richness.
- With Almond Milk: Enjoy with a glass of almond milk or your favorite plant-based milk.
Cooking Tips:
- Bananas: Use ripe bananas for the best natural sweetness and smooth texture.
- Sweetener Substitutes: If you prefer, you can substitute stevia with honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar for a different type of sweetness.
- Add-Ins: For extra texture and flavor, consider adding a handful of chopped nuts, seeds, or chocolate chips to the batter.
- Oats: Ensure you use rolled oats for a chewy texture, or quick oats for a smoother texture. If using steel-cut oats, you may need to adjust the soaking time and baking duration.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Oatmeal: High in fiber, which aids digestion and provides sustained energy throughout the day.
- Bananas: Naturally sweet and rich in potassium, vitamin B6, and fiber.
- Eggs: A source of high-quality protein, essential vitamins, and minerals.
- Cocoa Powder: Contains antioxidants, which are beneficial for heart health, and adds a rich chocolate flavor without the need for added sugars.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for a vegetarian diet.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure the oats are certified gluten-free to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: This recipe does not contain any dairy products.
- No Added Sugar: The bake is naturally sweetened with bananas and stevia, making it a healthier alternative to traditional baked goods.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: This bake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Healthy & Satisfying: A guilt-free treat that’s both nutritious and filling, making it perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and easy steps make this recipe accessible for any level of baker.
- Naturally Sweetened: Bananas and stevia provide natural sweetness, avoiding the need for refined sugars.
- Meal Prep-Friendly: Great for making ahead and enjoying throughout the week.
Conclusion:
This Healthy Banana Cocoa Oatmeal Bake is a perfect blend of taste and nutrition. It’s easy to prepare, delicious, and ideal for a healthy start to your day or a quick snack. Enjoy the rich flavors and wholesome ingredients that make this recipe a go-to favorite for any time of the day. Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use a different type of sweetener?
- Yes, you can use honey, maple syrup, agave nectar, or any sweetener of your choice.
- Can I make this bake vegan?
- To make it vegan, substitute the eggs with flax eggs or a plant-based egg replacer.
- Can I add other fruits to this recipe?
- Absolutely! You can add berries, chopped apples, or even dried fruits for additional flavor and texture.
- Is it okay to use instant oats?
- You can use instant oats, but the texture will be slightly different. Rolled oats are recommended for a chewier texture.
- How can I make this bake more protein-rich?
- Add a scoop of protein powder to the mixture or serve with Greek yogurt for a protein boost.