This oatmeal, cocoa, and banana dessert is a delightful treat that combines wholesome ingredients with rich flavors. Packed with fiber, antioxidants, and natural sweetness, this dessert is not only delicious but also nutritious. The combination of cocoa and bananas creates a luscious chocolatey taste, while oats add a comforting texture. Perfect for breakfast, a midday snack, or an after-dinner treat, this recipe is easy to prepare and requires minimal ingredients. Whether you are craving something sweet or looking for a healthy dessert option, this recipe will satisfy your taste buds without the guilt.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 2 ripe bananas (mashed)
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- A pinch of salt
- ¼ cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
- ¼ cup dark chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Mash the bananas in a bowl until smooth. Measure out the oats, cocoa powder, and other ingredients.
- Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, add rolled oats, unsweetened cocoa powder, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to combine.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together mashed bananas, milk, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract until well incorporated.
- Combine Everything: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and mix thoroughly until the oats are evenly coated with the chocolatey banana mixture.
- Let It Soak: Cover the mixture and let it sit for 10–15 minutes to allow the oats to absorb the flavors and soften.
- Preheat the Oven: If you prefer a baked version, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the oats soak.
- Cook the Dessert:
- Stovetop Method: Transfer the mixture to a saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring continuously for about 5–7 minutes until thick and creamy.
- Baked Method: Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, sprinkle chopped nuts and chocolate chips on top, and bake for 20–25 minutes until set.
- Cool and Serve: Let the dessert cool for a few minutes before serving. It can be enjoyed warm or chilled, depending on your preference.
- Garnish and Enjoy: For extra indulgence, top with sliced bananas, a drizzle of honey, or a dusting of cocoa powder. Serve as-is or with a scoop of Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
This healthy oatmeal, cocoa, and banana dessert is a perfect balance of sweetness and nutrition. The natural sweetness of ripe bananas complements the deep, rich flavor of cocoa, while oats provide a satisfying texture. Whether eaten warm or chilled, this dessert is versatile and can be customized with different toppings like shredded coconut, fresh berries, or a dollop of nut butter. Enjoy this wholesome treat guilt-free, knowing that it’s packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.