Ingredients
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- 120 g (1 1/4 cups) oat flakes (gluten-free)
- 250 ml (1 cup) hot milk (use your favorite milk)
- 2 medium ripe bananas
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- 2 eggs
- 4 tablespoons (45 g) cocoa or carob powder
- A pinch of salt
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- 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:
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- In a separate bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Add the eggs and mix well until fully combined.
- Combine Ingredients:
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- 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.
- Bake:
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- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
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- 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:
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- Let the loaf cool completely.
- Melt the sugar-free dark chocolate and drizzle it over the top of the loaf for decoration.
Serving Suggestions
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- 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
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- 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
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- 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
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- 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):
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- Calories: 150
- Protein: 4g
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- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 3g
Storage Tips
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- 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
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- 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!