This Sugar-Free Banana Oat Loaf with Cocoa is a perfect treat for those looking to indulge without the guilt. Made with natural ingredients and sweetened only with ripe bananas, this loaf is not only delicious but also healthy. Enjoy this moist and chocolatey loaf as a dessert or a snack!
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Soaking Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Ingredients
- 120 g (1 1/4 cups) oat flakes (gluten-free)
- 250 ml (1 cup) hot milk (use your favorite milk)
- 2 medium ripe bananas
- 2 eggs
- 4 tablespoons (45 g) cocoa or carob powder
- A pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 40 g (1/4 cup) nuts (your choice)
- Dark chocolate (sugar-free) for decoration
Directions
- Prepare the Oats:
- Place the oat flakes in a bowl and pour the hot milk over them. Let them soak for 10 minutes until they become soft and absorb the milk.
- Prepare the Banana Mixture:
- In a separate bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Add the eggs and mix well until fully combined.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Add the soaked oats to the banana mixture and mix thoroughly.
- Add the cocoa or carob powder, a pinch of salt, and baking powder to the mixture. Stir until everything is well incorporated.
- Fold in the nuts.
- Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Grease a loaf pan with a little oil or line it with parchment paper.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Decorate:
- Let the loaf cool completely.
- Melt the sugar-free dark chocolate and drizzle it over the top of the loaf for decoration.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve a slice of this loaf with a cup of tea or coffee.
- Pair with a dollop of Greek yogurt for a protein-packed snack.
- Enjoy as a healthy dessert after a meal.
Cooking Tips
- Make sure the bananas are very ripe to ensure maximum sweetness.
- You can add a teaspoon of vanilla extract for an extra layer of flavor.
- If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts or replace them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
Nutritional Benefits
- Oats are a great source of dietary fiber and help keep you full longer.
- Bananas provide natural sweetness and are rich in potassium and vitamins.
- Cocoa powder is a good source of antioxidants.
Dietary Information
- Gluten-free: Ensure the oat flakes are certified gluten-free.
- Nut-free: Can be made nut-free by omitting nuts or substituting with seeds.
- Dairy-free: Use a plant-based milk alternative.
Nutritional Facts (per slice, approximate):
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Refrigeration: Refrigerate for up to a week.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s naturally sweetened with bananas, making it a healthier choice.
- The combination of oats and cocoa provides a satisfying texture and rich flavor.
- It’s versatile and can be enjoyed at any time of the day.
Conclusion
This Sugar-Free Banana Oat Loaf with Cocoa is a delightful and healthy treat that you can enjoy guilt-free. Its rich chocolate flavor and moist texture make it a favorite for both adults and kids. Try this recipe for a nutritious snack or a delicious dessert that everyone will love!
Enjoy baking and savoring this delicious loaf! 😊
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use a different type of flour instead of oats?
- Yes, you can use almond flour or whole wheat flour, but it may slightly change the texture.
- Can I add other mix-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruit?
- Absolutely! Feel free to add chocolate chips, dried fruit, or even seeds for extra texture and flavor.
- Is it okay to use frozen bananas?
- Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before mashing.
- Can I make this loaf vegan?
- Yes, substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use plant-based milk.
- How do I know when the loaf is fully baked?
- Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the loaf is done.
- Can I use a sweetener if I want it sweeter?
- Yes, you can add a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup, but the bananas usually provide enough sweetness.
- What kind of nuts work best in this recipe?
- Walnuts, pecans, or almonds work great, but you can use any nuts you prefer.
- Can I skip the chocolate decoration?
- Of course! The loaf is delicious on its own, but the chocolate adds an extra touch of indulgence.
- Can this loaf be made into muffins?
- Yes, just adjust the baking time to about 20-25 minutes for muffins.
- How should I store the loaf to keep it moist?
- Store it in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge to maintain moisture.