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Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease or line a baking dish (around 8×8 inches or similar) with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Add the milk, Greek yogurt, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract, and mix until combined.
3. Add Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, cocoa powder, ground cinnamon, salt, and baking powder. Stir the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until fully incorporated. If you’re adding chocolate chips or nuts, fold them in at this stage for extra flavor and texture.
4. Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. If desired, sprinkle a few additional chocolate chips or nuts on top for a finishing touch.
5. Bake
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is slightly golden, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool and Serve
Let the Banana Oatmeal Cocoa Bake cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. You can enjoy it warm or let it cool completely. It also keeps well in the fridge for a few days, so feel free to make it ahead of time for busy mornings.
Tips for the Best Banana Oatmeal Cocoa Bake
- Banana Ripeness: Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and natural sweetness. The riper the banana, the sweeter your bake will be.
- Add-ins: Customize the bake by adding raisins, dried cranberries, or coconut flakes. You can also switch up the nuts for pecans, cashews, or even sunflower seeds for a different twist.
- Make It Vegan: For a vegan version, substitute the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt and use maple syrup or agave instead of honey.
- Serve with Toppings: Top your bake with a dollop of Greek yogurt, a drizzle of nut butter, or a sprinkle of extra cinnamon for even more flavor.
Health Benefits of the Banana Oatmeal Cocoa Bake
- Rich in Fiber: Oats and bananas are both excellent sources of dietary fiber, which aids digestion and helps keep you feeling full longer.
- Loaded with Antioxidants: Cocoa powder and dark chocolate chips (if added) are rich in antioxidants, which are great for heart health and reducing inflammation.
- Protein Boost: The addition of Greek yogurt and oats provides a good amount of protein, helping to keep your muscles nourished.
- Natural Energy: The combination of carbs, protein, and healthy fats provides a balanced energy boost that will sustain you through the day.
Conclusion
The Banana Oatmeal Cocoa Bake is a delightful, nutritious, and easy-to-make treat that checks all the boxes—delicious, filling, and healthy. Whether you’re enjoying it as a cozy breakfast, a midday snack, or even a post-workout treat, this baked dish is guaranteed to become a favorite in your recipe collection. The best part? It’s naturally sweetened and packed with wholesome ingredients that will leave you feeling good about your choice.
So, grab your bananas, oats, and cocoa, and start baking your way to a warm, comforting treat today!
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