Healthy Banana Cocoa Oatmeal Bake

Ingredients

• • 1 cup (90g) oatmeal

 

• • 240 ml (1 cup) water
  • 2 eggs
  • A pinch of salt

 

• • 1 tablespoon stevia sweetener (or your preferred sweetener)
  • 2 ripe bananas, mashed
  • 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder

 

• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• Avocado oil (for greasing)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:

 

• Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
• Grease a baking dish (approximately 20×20 cm or 8×8 inches) with avocado oil.

2. Prepare the Mixture:

 

• • Soak the Oats: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of oatmeal with 240 ml of water. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the oats to absorb the water and soften.
  • Mash the Bananas: Mash the 2 bananas until smooth and add them to the oatmeal mixture.
  • Mix Ingredients: Add 2 eggs, a pinch of salt, 1 tablespoon of stevia sweetener, 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder, and 1 teaspoon of baking powder to the oatmeal and banana mixture. Stir well until all ingredients are fully combined and the mixture is smooth.

3. Bake:

• • Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the top is firm and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

4. Serve:

• • Allow the bake to cool slightly in the dish before cutting into squares.
  • Serve warm or at room temperature.

 

Serving Suggestions:

• • With Greek Yogurt: Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt for added creaminess and protein.
  • With Fresh Berries: Pair with fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of flavor.
  • With a Drizzle: Add a drizzle of honey, maple syrup, or nut butter for extra richness.

 

• With Almond Milk: Enjoy with a glass of almond milk or your favorite plant-based milk.

Cooking Tips:

• • Bananas: Use ripe bananas for the best natural sweetness and smooth texture.
  • Sweetener Substitutes: If you prefer, you can substitute stevia with honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar for a different type of sweetness.

 

• Add-Ins: For extra texture and flavor, consider adding a handful of chopped nuts, seeds, or chocolate chips to the batter.
• Oats: Ensure you use rolled oats for a chewy texture, or quick oats for a smoother texture. If using steel-cut oats, you may need to adjust the soaking time and baking duration.

Nutritional Benefits:

• • Oatmeal: High in fiber, which aids digestion and provides sustained energy throughout the day.

 

• • Bananas: Naturally sweet and rich in potassium, vitamin B6, and fiber.
  • Eggs: A source of high-quality protein, essential vitamins, and minerals.
  • Cocoa Powder: Contains antioxidants, which are beneficial for heart health, and adds a rich chocolate flavor without the need for added sugars.

 

Dietary Information:

• • Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for a vegetarian diet.
  • Gluten-Free: Ensure the oats are certified gluten-free to make this recipe gluten-free.
  • Dairy-Free: This recipe does not contain any dairy products.

 

• No Added Sugar: The bake is naturally sweetened with bananas and stevia, making it a healthier alternative to traditional baked goods.

Storage Tips:

• • Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Freezing: This bake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• • Healthy & Satisfying: A guilt-free treat that’s both nutritious and filling, making it perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert.
  • Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and easy steps make this recipe accessible for any level of baker.
  • Naturally Sweetened: Bananas and stevia provide natural sweetness, avoiding the need for refined sugars.

 

• Meal Prep-Friendly: Great for making ahead and enjoying throughout the week.