Indulge in a healthy yet decadent treat with these Oatmeal, Banana, and Cocoa Bars. Combining the natural sweetness of bananas with the rich flavor of cocoa and the hearty goodness of oats, this dessert is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without the guilt. Easy to prepare and bake, these bars make a great snack or dessert for any occasion. Whether you are looking for a wholesome treat for your family or a quick dessert to impress your guests, these bars are sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
- 135 g oat flakes
- 1 banana (200g), crushed
- 10 g cocoa powder (3 teaspoons)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- A pinch of salt
- 60 ml sunflower oil
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F) to ensure it’s ready for baking.
- Prepare the Oats: Grind the oat flakes in a food processor until they reach a flour-like consistency.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground oats, crushed banana, cocoa powder, sugar, salt, sunflower oil, and baking powder. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Rest the Mixture: Allow the mixture to rest for 5-10 minutes. This step helps the oats absorb the moisture from the banana and oil, making the bars more cohesive.
- Prepare the Baking Pan: Line a 16 cm baking pan with parchment paper to prevent the bars from sticking and ensure easy removal after baking.
- Pour and Rest Again: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and let it rest for another 5-10 minutes. This second rest period ensures even distribution and absorption.
- Bake the Bars: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Dust: Once baked, allow the bars to cool in the pan. After cooling, dust the top with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Serve and Enjoy: Slice into bars and enjoy this healthy, chocolatey treat!
More Information
These bars are a versatile treat that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. They are perfect for breakfast on-the-go, a mid-afternoon snack, or a post-dinner dessert. The combination of oats, banana, and cocoa creates a texture that is both chewy and satisfying, while the natural sweetness from the banana means you can use less added sugar. Plus, these bars are easy to customize. Feel free to add nuts, dried fruits, or even a handful of chocolate chips to the mix for extra flavor and texture.
These Oatmeal, Banana, and Cocoa Bars are more than just a tasty treat—they’re a smart choice for anyone seeking a healthier lifestyle. Made with simple, wholesome ingredients, they offer a balanced mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins to keep you energized throughout the day.
Storage Tips: Once baked, these bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to prepare a larger batch, they freeze exceptionally well. Simply wrap each bar in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature or give them a quick zap in the microwave.
Serving Suggestions: These bars are incredibly versatile. Enjoy them as they are, or pair them with a dollop of Greek yogurt and fresh berries for a hearty breakfast. They also make a fantastic addition to lunchboxes, offering a nutritious alternative to store-bought snacks. For a more indulgent treat, serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of chocolate syrup.
Customization Ideas: The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. You can personalize these bars to suit your taste. Consider adding chopped nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans for a crunchy texture. Dried fruits such as cranberries, raisins, or chopped apricots can introduce a hint of natural sweetness. If you’re a chocolate lover, mix in some dark chocolate chips or chunks for an extra cocoa kick.
Dietary Adaptations: These bars are naturally vegan and can easily be made gluten-free by using certified gluten-free oats. If you’re looking to reduce the sugar content, you can substitute the tablespoon of sugar with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, adjusting the quantity to your taste. For those following a low-oil diet, try replacing the sunflower oil with unsweetened applesauce or mashed avocado to maintain moisture without adding extra fat.
Occasions and Uses: These bars are perfect for a variety of occasions. Pack them as a quick snack for a hiking trip, bring them to a potluck, or simply keep them on hand for a healthy dessert option after dinner. They’re also great for meal prep, allowing you to have a nutritious snack ready whenever you need it.
Texture and Flavor: The combination of oats and banana creates a bar that is both chewy and satisfying. The banana adds natural sweetness and moisture, while the cocoa powder imparts a rich, chocolatey flavor. The pinch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances the overall taste, making these bars a delightful treat that feels indulgent but is actually good for you.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy and Delicious: These bars are made with wholesome ingredients that provide both nutrition and flavor. The oats offer fiber, the banana provides natural sweetness and potassium, and the cocoa adds a rich chocolate taste.
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require any special equipment or advanced cooking skills. It’s perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
- Versatile: Whether you’re serving them as a snack, dessert, or even a quick breakfast, these bars are a versatile addition to your recipe collection. They can be easily packed for lunchboxes or picnics.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your preferences. Add your favorite nuts, seeds, dried fruits, or even a sprinkle of chocolate chips for added indulgence.
Nutritional Benefits
These Oatmeal, Banana, and Cocoa Bars are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The oats provide a good source of dietary fiber, which helps in maintaining a healthy digestive system and keeps you feeling full for longer. Bananas are rich in potassium, an essential mineral for heart health and muscle function. Cocoa powder adds a boost of antioxidants, which are beneficial for reducing inflammation and protecting against chronic diseases. Moreover, using sunflower oil ensures you get healthy fats, which are crucial for overall health.
Conclusion
In summary, these Oatmeal, Banana, and Cocoa Bars are a perfect blend of taste and nutrition. They are easy to make, healthy, and incredibly delicious. Whether you are looking for a guilt-free dessert, a nutritious snack, or a quick breakfast option, these bars are an excellent choice. Enjoy the rich chocolate flavor combined with the natural sweetness of bananas and the hearty texture of oats. Give this recipe a try and surprise your family with a treat that is both wholesome and delightful.