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 oat flakes (gluten-free)
- 250 ml hot milk (use your favorite milk)
- 2 medium ripe bananas
- 2 eggs
- 4 tablespoons cocoa/carob powder (45 g)
- A pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 40 g 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.
Storage Tips
- Store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerate for up to a week or 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!