This Sugar-Free Banana Oat Loaf with Cocoa is a guilt-free indulgence made with wholesome ingredients and sweetened naturally with ripe bananas. Perfect as a snack, breakfast, or dessert, this loaf is moist, chocolatey, and packed with goodness.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Soaking Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Ingredients
- 120 g (1 ½ cups) oat flakes (gluten-free)
- 250 ml (1 cup) hot milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 2 medium ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 eggs
- 4 tablespoons cocoa or carob powder (45 g)
- A pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 40 g (⅓ cup) nuts (e.g., walnuts, almonds, or pecans), chopped
- Sugar-free dark chocolate, melted (for decoration)
Directions
1. Prepare the Oats:
- Place oat flakes in a bowl and pour hot milk over them.
- Let the oats soak for 10 minutes until they soften and absorb the milk.
2. Prepare the Banana Mixture:
- In a separate bowl, mash the bananas until smooth.
- Add the eggs and whisk until fully combined.
3. Combine Ingredients:
- Add the soaked oats to the banana mixture and stir well.
- Mix in the cocoa or carob powder, a pinch of salt, and baking powder until the batter is smooth.
- Gently fold in the chopped nuts.
4. Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Pour the batter into the pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
5. Decorate:
- Let the loaf cool completely before removing it from the pan.
- Drizzle melted sugar-free dark chocolate over the top for decoration.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve slices with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of honey for added creaminess.
- Pair with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of almond milk.
Cooking Tips
- Ensure bananas are ripe for maximum natural sweetness.
- Add a handful of sugar-free chocolate chips for extra indulgence.
- Use plant-based milk for a dairy-free version.
Nutritional Benefits
- Oats: High in fiber and heart-healthy nutrients.
- Bananas: Natural sweetness and a source of potassium.
- Cocoa: Rich in antioxidants and magnesium.
- Nuts: Provide healthy fats and protein.
Dietary Information
- Gluten-free (if using certified gluten-free oats).
- Sugar-free and naturally sweetened with bananas.
- Can be made dairy-free by using plant-based milk.
Nutritional Facts (per slice, based on 10 servings)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Protein: 5 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fat: 8 g
- Fiber: 4 g
Storage
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Freeze slices individually wrapped for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat as needed.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Naturally sweetened with bananas, making it sugar-free.
- Rich in fiber, protein, and antioxidants.
- Simple to prepare and perfect for meal prep.
- A healthier alternative to traditional chocolate loaves.
Conclusion
This Sugar-Free Banana Oat Loaf with Cocoa is an easy-to-make, healthy treat that satisfies your sweet tooth without added sugars. Its moist texture, chocolatey flavor, and wholesome ingredients make it a must-try recipe for anyone looking for a nutritious indulgence.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I substitute cocoa powder with carob powder?
Yes, carob powder works as a great alternative and is naturally sweeter. - Can I make this loaf egg-free?
Yes, use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg). - Can I add dried fruits to the batter?
Absolutely! Dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped dates make great additions. - Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, quick oats can be used but may result in a slightly different texture. - What nuts work best in this recipe?
Walnuts, almonds, or pecans are ideal, but any nut of your choice will work. - Can I skip the nuts?
Yes, you can omit nuts or replace them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds. - Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, thaw and mash the bananas before using them in the recipe. - What can I substitute for dark chocolate?
Use sugar-free white chocolate or drizzle with nut butter instead. - How do I prevent the loaf from sticking to the pan?
Grease the pan well or use parchment paper to ensure easy removal. - Can I double the recipe?
Yes, double the ingredients and use two loaf pans or a larger baking dish.