If you’re looking for a quick, healthy dessert that is both satisfying and nutritious, this oatmeal and banana recipe is a must-try. It’s simple to prepare, requires no fancy ingredients, and can be ready in just 5 minutes of prep time. Whether you’re looking for a dessert or a wholesome breakfast option, this recipe is ideal, and it has the added bonus of being a great support for weight loss—I personally lost 10 kg in a month while incorporating this into my diet!
This dessert is also a fantastic alternative to sugary treats, as it contains natural sweetness from the bananas and apples, and it’s packed with fiber from the oatmeal. It’s filling, nutritious, and it won’t leave you feeling guilty after enjoying a delicious slice. Ready to dive into a healthy treat that everyone will love?
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (100g) of oatmeal
- 200ml milk
- 2 eggs
- A pinch of salt
- Vanilla extract (to taste)
- 2 bananas, mashed
- 1 apple, chopped
- ½ cup cranberries (optional)
- ½ cup walnuts, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup (100g) of oatmeal, 200ml milk, 2 eggs, a pinch of salt, and a few drops of vanilla extract (if using).** Stir until the ingredients are well mixed and smooth.
2. Mash the Bananas & Prepare the Apples
- Peel and mash 2 ripe bananas in a separate bowl. The riper the bananas, the sweeter your dessert will be, so you may want to use overripe bananas. Chop 1 apple into small cubes and add both the mashed bananas and apple chunks to the batter. Stir well to incorporate.
3. Prepare the Baking Pan
- To ensure the dessert doesn’t stick, dampen a sheet of parchment paper with water, and use it to line your baking pan (18 cm or 7 inches in diameter). The water will help the parchment paper fit snugly into the pan and make it easier to shape.
4. Add Cranberries and Walnuts
- If you’d like, now’s the time to stir in your optional ingredients. Mix ½ cup cranberries and ½ cup chopped walnuts into the batter. They will add a delightful texture, flavor, and a boost of antioxidants and healthy fats.
5. Bake
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F). Pour the prepared batter into the lined baking pan, making sure it’s spread out evenly. Bake the dessert in the oven for 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Cool & Serve
- Once the dessert is fully baked, allow it to cool completely in the baking pan. Cooling is essential as it allows the dessert to set, making it easier to slice and giving it a firmer texture. After it has cooled, slice into portions and enjoy your healthy treat!
Cooking Tips:
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you’d like the dessert to be sweeter, you can add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the batter.
- Add Flavor: If you prefer more flavor, feel free to add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, comforting taste.
- Fruit Substitutes: Don’t have apples or cranberries? You can replace them with other fruits like blueberries, raisins, or chopped pears.
Storage Tips:
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can enjoy it cold or reheat it in the microwave for a few seconds.
- Freezer: You can also freeze this dessert! Slice it into portions and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge or microwave before serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Protein: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 80mg
(Values may vary depending on specific ingredients.)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Can I use non-dairy milk?
Yes, you can substitute regular milk with almond, oat, or soy milk to make this recipe dairy-free.
2. Can I skip the eggs?
If you’d prefer an egg-free option, you can replace the eggs with 2 tablespoons of flaxseeds mixed with 6 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken, then use it as your egg substitute.
3. Can I make this dessert gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just ensure you’re using certified gluten-free oatmeal, and you’ll have a gluten-free treat.
4. What if I don’t have cranberries?
No problem! You can substitute cranberries with raisins, dried apricots, or any other dried fruits you enjoy.
5. How do I know when the dessert is fully baked?
The dessert is done when it’s golden brown on top and feels firm when touched. You can also insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, the dessert is fully baked.
Conclusion:
This oatmeal and banana dessert is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it’s also a nutritious and satisfying option for anyone looking for a healthy sweet treat. With a mix of wholesome ingredients like oats, bananas, and apples, this dessert is perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even post-workout fuel. It’s naturally sweet, packed with fiber, and provides long-lasting energy. So, give it a try—you won’t regret it!