This oat and banana chocolate bake transforms simple, wholesome ingredients into a rich and decadent treat that's surprisingly healthy. Featuring a blend of oats and oat flour for a hearty texture, mashed ripe bananas for natural sweetness, and cacao powder for a deep chocolatey flavor, this bake is a delightful alternative to traditional desserts. The addition of peanut butter swirls and optional chocolate chips on top adds layers of gooey goodness, making each bite irresistibly luscious.
Why You'll Love This
If you're a fan of guilt-free indulgences, this recipe is for you. It's not only packed with nutritious ingredients like oats and bananas, which offer fiber and essential vitamins, but also boasts the rich flavors of chocolate and peanut butter—a classic combination loved by many. This bake is easy to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and can be customized to your liking, such as adding nuts or using almond milk for a dairy-free option. It's perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings without the added guilt.
Perfect Occasion
This oat and banana chocolate bake is perfect for a variety of occasions. It makes a fantastic brunch item, a comforting snack for movie nights, or a hearty dessert at potlucks. Serve it at children's parties for a healthier dessert option that still feels indulgent. It's also an excellent choice for bake sales or casual gatherings where you want to offer something sweet yet substantial.
Decoration Tips
- Enhanced Toppings: After adding peanut butter and chocolate chips, consider sprinkling a pinch of sea salt or a dash of cinnamon for an extra flavor boost.
- Serve with Ice Cream: For an indulgent dessert, serve warm slices of this bake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Drizzle More Chocolate: For a more decadent presentation, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top of the baked dish once it's slightly cooled.
- Fresh Berries: Add a colorful touch and a hint of tartness by garnishing with fresh raspberries or sliced strawberries.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup oats
- 1 cup oat flour (simply blend 1 cup of oats until fine)
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/4 cup cacao or cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 3/4 cup milk
- Optional: chocolate chips for batter and topping
Topping:
- Peanut butter
- Chocolate chips
Instructions:
- Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Prepare an ovenproof dish by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper.
- In the prepared dish, combine the oats, oat flour, mashed bananas, cacao powder, baking powder, milk, and chocolate chips (if using). Stir everything together until well mixed and evenly spread the mixture in the dish.
- Drop dollops of peanut butter over the top of the mixture. Using a knife, gently swirl the peanut butter into the batter to create a marbled effect. Sprinkle additional chocolate chips on top if desired.
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bake to cool slightly before serving. This dish is best enjoyed warm, with extra peanut butter or chocolate chips if preferred.
Enjoy this wholesome and delicious oat and banana chocolate bake, perfect for any time you desire a sweet treat without the guilt!