Banana Oatmeal Cocoa Bake Recipe

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Mash the Bananas:
   • In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. The riper the bananas, the easier they will mash and the sweeter your bake will be.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
   • To the mashed bananas, add the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract. If you’re using maple syrup or honey for added sweetness, you can stir it in at this point as well. Mix until fully combined.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients:
   • In another bowl, combine the rolled oats, cocoa powder, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir the dry ingredients together until well mixed.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until fully incorporated. If you’re adding any optional ingredients like chopped nuts or chocolate chips, fold them in now.
6. Pour and Bake:
   • Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and Serve:
   • Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing into squares. Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Banana Oatmeal Cocoa Bake

• Use Overripe Bananas: For the best flavor and natural sweetness, opt for bananas that are very ripe, as they’re easier to mash and provide a richer taste.
• Customize Your Add-ins: Experiment with your favorite mix-ins like nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit for added texture and flavor.
• Make It Vegan: To make this recipe vegan, swap out the eggs for flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) and use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk.
• Meal Prep: This recipe can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutrient-Packed: The combination of oats, bananas, and cocoa offers fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants in each bite. It’s a great way to start your day or fuel up for an afternoon snack.
• Balanced: With the oats providing complex carbs, bananas offering natural sugars and potassium, and the eggs contributing protein, this bake is both filling and nutritious.
• Easy to Make: Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this simple recipe requires minimal effort and ingredients, making it perfect for busy mornings.

Conclusion

The Banana Oatmeal Cocoa Bake is a fantastic way to enjoy a sweet, indulgent treat without compromising on health. It’s packed with wholesome ingredients that will keep you full, energized, and satisfied, while the cocoa and banana combo provides a rich, comforting flavor. Whether you’re preparing breakfast for the week or looking for a wholesome dessert, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your household.

So, preheat that oven and get ready to enjoy a warm, delicious, and healthy treat that everyone in the family will love!