This Banana Oatmeal Cocoa Bake is a nutritious and delicious treat, perfect for breakfast, a snack, or a light dessert. The natural sweetness of banana pairs beautifully with the rich cocoa powder, while the oatmeal adds a hearty texture. It’s easy to make, filled with wholesome ingredients, and great for satisfying your sweet cravings without any guilt. Whether you enjoy it warm straight from the oven or at room temperature, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Bake:
- 40g (about ½ cup) oatmeal
- 120 ml (½ cup) milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 banana, mashed
- 8g (1 tablespoon) cocoa powder
- 5g (1 teaspoon) baking powder
Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (360°F). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent the bake from sticking.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, and mashed banana until smooth. The banana adds natural sweetness and moisture to the bake.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
Add the oatmeal, cocoa powder, and baking powder to the wet ingredients. Stir until the mixture is well combined and there are no lumps.
Step 4: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be set and firm to the touch.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Allow the bake to cool slightly before serving. You can enjoy it warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
This Banana Oatmeal Cocoa Bake is delicious on its own, but here are a few ways to elevate it:
- Greek Yogurt or Whipped Cream: Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt or whipped cream for added richness.
- Nuts or Seeds: Add a sprinkle of chopped nuts or seeds for extra crunch.
- Fresh Fruit: Serve with fresh fruit, such as strawberries or raspberries, for a refreshing contrast.
Cooking Tips
- Make it Sweeter: If you have a sweet tooth, consider adding a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the batter for extra sweetness.
- Cocoa Substitutes: For a more decadent flavor, you can add a handful of chocolate chips to the batter for a melty chocolate experience.
- Gluten-Free Option: If you need a gluten-free version, ensure that the oats are certified gluten-free.
Nutritional Benefits
This bake is a great way to start your day or enjoy as a snack, offering several nutritional benefits:
- Oats: A great source of fiber, which supports digestive health and keeps you feeling full longer.
- Banana: Packed with potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and supports heart health.
- Egg: Provides protein and essential amino acids for muscle repair and overall health.
Dietary Information
You can easily modify this recipe to fit various dietary preferences:
- Dairy-Free: To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute the milk with almond milk or any other plant-based milk of your choice.
- Nut-Free: Skip the nuts or seeds if you have a nut allergy, or use sunflower seeds for a crunchy topping.
- Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free oats for a completely gluten-free bake.
Nutritional Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
Storage
This bake is great for making ahead or storing for later:
- Room Temperature: Store the bake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Refrigeration: If you’d like to keep it longer, refrigerate the bake for up to 4 days. Warm it up before serving for the best taste.
- Freezing: You can freeze individual portions for up to 1 month. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap or foil and store in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of milk?
Yes, feel free to use any type of milk, including almond milk, soy milk, or coconut milk. Make sure the milk you choose complements the flavor of the bake.
Can I add extra fruits to the bake?
Absolutely! You can add blueberries, raisins, or even a handful of chopped apple for extra flavor and texture.
Can I make this in advance?
Yes, you can prepare this bake ahead of time. Simply store it in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Conclusion
This Banana Oatmeal Cocoa Bake is a delicious and nutritious treat that is easy to make and full of wholesome ingredients. With the perfect balance of sweetness from the banana, richness from the cocoa powder, and heartiness from the oatmeal, it makes for a satisfying snack or breakfast. Whether served with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of nuts, this bake is sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Enjoy!