Cocoa Banana Oatmeal Bake
Ingredients
- 1 cup oatmeal
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
- 30g walnuts, chopped
- 1 teaspoon vanilla sugar
- 30g ground almonds
- 30g oat flakes
- 1 banana, mashed
- 160ml water
Directions
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F) to ensure it’s 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 the preheated oven 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 Greek yogurt 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: Provides fiber, vitamins, and minerals, promoting digestive health and sustained energy.
- Banana: Adds natural sweetness and is rich in potassium and vitamins B6 and C.
- Walnuts: Offer healthy fats, protein, and essential nutrients for heart health and brain function.
- Cocoa Powder: Contains antioxidants and can boost mood and cognitive function.
- Ground Almonds: Provide protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients like vitamin E and magnesium.
Dietary Information
- Gluten-Free: Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free if you are sensitive to gluten.
- No Refined Sugar: Sweetened naturally with banana and a small amount of vanilla sugar.
- Vegetarian: Contains no meat or fish products.
- High in Fiber: Oats and bananas provide a good amount of dietary fiber.
Storage Tips
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- The bake can also be frozen for up to a month. Thaw at room temperature before serving.