These Healthy Slimming Banana Cocoa Oat Bars are a guilt-free dessert or snack option that’s perfect for those who want to indulge in a sweet treat without added sugars. Made with wholesome ingredients like oats, bananas, and walnuts, these bars are both satisfying and nutritious. The rich cocoa flavor combined with the natural sweetness of bananas creates a delicious, moist texture that everyone will love. Top them with dark chocolate for an extra layer of indulgence that’s still healthy!
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Ingredients
- Oat Flakes: 1 ½ cups (120 g)
- Hot Milk: 1 cup (250 ml)
- Bananas: 2, medium-sized, ripe
- Eggs: 2
- Cocoa Powder: 4 tablespoons (45 g)
- Baking Powder: 1 tablespoon
- Walnuts: ⅓ cup (40 g), chopped
- Dark Chocolate (for topping): ½ cup (75 g), melted
Directions
- Prepare the Oats:
- Place 1 ½ cups (120 g) of oat flakes in a bowl.
- Pour 1 cup (250 ml) of hot milk over the oats and let them soak for 10 minutes to soften.
- Prepare the Batter:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
- In a separate bowl, mash 2 ripe bananas until smooth.
- Add 2 eggs to the mashed bananas and mix well until combined.
- Stir in the soaked oats, 4 tablespoons (45 g) of cocoa powder, and 1 tablespoon of baking powder.
- Chop ⅓ cup (40 g) of walnuts and fold them into the batter.
- Bake the Bars:
- Grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Add the Chocolate Topping:
- While the bars are baking, melt ½ cup (75 g) of dark chocolate.
- Once the bars are baked, remove them from the oven and immediately pour the melted dark chocolate over the top, spreading it evenly.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the baking dish.
- Once cooled, cut into squares or bars.
- Serve and enjoy your delicious, healthy, and slimming dessert!
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy these bars with a cup of herbal tea or coffee for a delightful snack.
- Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a spoonful of nut butter for added protein.
- Pair with fresh berries for a refreshing and nutritious dessert option.
Cooking Tips
- For a crunchier texture, lightly toast the walnuts before adding them to the batter.
- Use very ripe bananas for maximum natural sweetness.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to ensure clean, neat slices.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract to enhance the flavor profile.
Nutritional Benefits
- Oats: High in fiber, they help with digestion and keep you feeling full longer.
- Bananas: Provide natural sweetness and are rich in potassium and vitamins.
- Cocoa: Packed with antioxidants, it supports heart health and can improve mood.
- Walnuts: A good source of healthy fats, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Dark Chocolate: Contains antioxidants and has less sugar compared to milk chocolate.
Dietary Information
- Gluten-Free (if using certified gluten-free oats)
- Contains dairy and eggs
- Free of added sugars
- Vegetarian
- Can be made vegan with suitable substitutions
Nutritional Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 10g
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: Keep in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Freezer: Freeze individually wrapped bars for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love these Healthy Slimming Banana Cocoa Oat Bars because they are incredibly easy to make and packed with wholesome ingredients. The natural sweetness from bananas and the rich cocoa flavor create a deliciously satisfying dessert that’s perfect for any time of day. With no added sugars and a gluten-free option, these bars fit well into a healthy lifestyle. They’re a great way to enjoy a sweet treat without any guilt!
Conclusion
These Healthy Slimming Banana Cocoa Oat Bars are a perfect blend of taste and nutrition. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack or a guilt-free dessert, these bars deliver on both flavor and health benefits. Made with simple ingredients and minimal effort, they are ideal for any occasion. Make a batch today and enjoy the deliciousness of a healthy dessert that loves you back!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, substitute the milk with a plant-based alternative (such as almond, oat, or soy milk) and use flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) in place of the eggs. - Can I use instant oats instead of oat flakes?
Yes, instant oats can be used, but they may result in a slightly different texture. Instant oats are more finely processed and might make the bars softer. - How do I store these Banana Cocoa Oat Bars?
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze them for up to 3 months. - Can I add other ingredients like dried fruits or seeds?
Absolutely! You can add dried fruits (such as raisins or cranberries), seeds (like chia or flaxseeds), or other nuts to the batter for added flavor and nutrition. - Can I omit the dark chocolate topping?
Yes, the dark chocolate topping is optional. If you prefer a lighter version or want to reduce the sugar content further, you can skip this step. - How can I make the bars sweeter without adding sugar?
If you prefer a sweeter taste, consider adding a tablespoon of honey, maple syrup, or more ripe bananas to the batter. - What can I use instead of walnuts?
You can use any other nuts like almonds, pecans, or hazelnuts. For a nut-free version, consider using sunflower or pumpkin seeds. - Can I make this recipe without cocoa powder?
Yes, if you prefer a non-chocolate version, you can omit the cocoa powder. You can also add a bit of cinnamon or vanilla extract for extra flavor. - Is it possible to use a different type of chocolate for the topping?
Yes, you can use milk chocolate, white chocolate, or even a vegan chocolate alternative depending on your preference and dietary needs. - Can I enjoy these bars for breakfast?
Absolutely! These bars are not only a great dessert but also a healthy and filling option for breakfast or a midday snack due to their high fiber and protein content.