Cocoa Banana Oatmeal Bake

Cocoa Banana Oatmeal Bake

Ingredients

• • 1 cup oatmeal
  • 1 tablespoon cocoa powder

• • 30g walnuts, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla sugar
  • 30g ground almonds

• • 30g oat flakes
  • 1 banana, mashed
  • 160ml water

Directions

Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F) to ensure it’s ready for baking.

Mix Dry Ingredients:

• In a large bowl, combine the oatmeal, cocoa powder, chopped walnuts, vanilla sugar, ground almonds, and oat flakes. Mix well to evenly distribute the ingredients.

Add Wet Ingredients:

• • Add the mashed banana and water to the dry mixture. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.

Prepare the Baking Dish:

• Lightly grease a baking dish with oil to prevent sticking. Pour the oatmeal mixture into the prepared dish and spread it evenly.

Bake:

• Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the top is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve:

• • Allow the bake to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm for a comforting dessert or at room temperature for a quick snack.

Serving Suggestions

• • Serve warm with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
  • Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a satisfying snack.
  • Enjoy with fresh berries or a drizzle of honey for added sweetness.

Cooking Tips

• • For a richer flavor, add a handful of dark chocolate chips to the mixture.
  • Substitute the walnuts with pecans or hazelnuts for a different nutty flavor.
  • Use almond milk instead of water for a creamier texture.

Nutritional Benefits

• • Oatmeal: Provides fiber, vitamins, and minerals, promoting digestive health and sustained energy.
  • Banana: Adds natural sweetness and is rich in potassium and vitamins B6 and C.
  • Walnuts: Offer healthy fats, protein, and essential nutrients for heart health and brain function.

• Cocoa Powder: Contains antioxidants and can boost mood and cognitive function.
• Ground Almonds: Provide protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients like vitamin E and magnesium.

Dietary Information

• • Gluten-Free: Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free if you are sensitive to gluten.

• • No Refined Sugar: Sweetened naturally with banana and a small amount of vanilla sugar.
  • Vegetarian: Contains no meat or fish products.
  • High in Fiber: Oats and bananas provide a good amount of dietary fiber.

Storage Tips

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• The bake can also be frozen for up to a month. Thaw at room temperature before serving.