
Cocoa Banana Oatmeal Bake
Directions
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F) to ensure itās 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 theĀ preheated ovenĀ 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 GreekĀ yogurtĀ 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:Ā Provides fiber, vitamins, and minerals, promoting digestive health and sustained energy.
- Banana:Ā Adds natural sweetness and is rich in potassium and vitamins B6 and C.
- Walnuts:Ā Offer healthy fats, protein, and essential nutrients for heart health and brain function.
- Cocoa Powder:Ā Contains antioxidants and can boost mood and cognitive function.
- Ground Almonds:Ā Provide protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients like vitamin E and magnesium.
Dietary Information
-
- Gluten-Free:Ā Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free if you are sensitive to gluten.
-
- No Refined Sugar:Ā Sweetened naturally with banana and a small amount of vanilla sugar.
- Vegetarian:Ā Contains no meat or fish products.
- High in Fiber:Ā Oats and bananas provide a good amount of dietary fiber.
Storage Tips
- Store any leftovers in anĀ airtight containerĀ at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- For longer storage, keep it in theĀ refrigeratorĀ for up to a week.
- The bake can also be frozen for up to a month. Thaw at room temperature before serving.