Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 120 grams (4.5 ounces) oatmeal
- 250 milliliters (1 cup) hot milk
- 2 ripe bananas, about 200 grams (7 ounces) without peel
- 2 eggs
- 30 grams (2.5 tablespoons) cocoa powder
- 5 grams (1 teaspoon) baking powder
Optional Decorations
- Nuts
- 100 grams (3.5 ounces) melted dark chocolate
Equipment
- Baking Dish
Make sure to use a non-stick baking dish or line it with parchment paper. This will help you remove the bars easily after baking. A standard 8x8 inch dish works perfectly!
- Mixing Bowls
Use a couple of medium to large mixing bowls to combine your ingredients. Separate bowls for wet and dry ingredients will make the process smoother.
- Spatula
A flexible spatula is great for mixing and scraping down the sides of your bowls to ensure everything gets incorporated.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurements are crucial in baking. Invest in a good set of measuring cups and spoons for consistent results.
Instructions
Step 1
Preparation
Step 2
Baking
Step 3
Serving
Servings
Here's where the fun really begins! 🥳 After your Banana Cocoa Oat Bars have baked to perfection, the sky's the limit on how you can serve them. While they are delicious straight out of the oven, here are some serving suggestions to make them even more special:🤗
Top it Off: Once the bars are cool, drizzle them with some melted dark chocolate for that extra indulgence. 🌟 Add a sprinkle of crushed nuts like walnuts or almonds for added texture and flavor.
Power Breakfast: Start your day right by pairing a bar with a cup of Greek yogurt and some fresh berries. It's a balanced breakfast that will keep you full and happy. 🥣🍓
Snack Attack: These bars are perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up. Enjoy one with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful snack. 🍵☕
Healthy Dessert: Warm up a bar in the microwave for a few seconds and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You won’t believe how decadent a healthy dessert can taste! 🍨✨
Variations
Let's make this recipe even more inclusive! Whether you're on a gluten-free diet or embracing a vegan lifestyle, these Banana Cocoa Oat Bars can easily be adapted to suit your needs. 🌱🌟
Gluten-Free: Simply use gluten-free oats in place of regular oats. Oats are naturally gluten-free but often processed in facilities with gluten-containing grains, so look for certified gluten-free. 🌾🚫
Vegan: Swap out the eggs for flax eggs by mixing 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed with 6 tablespoons of water and letting it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. Use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk instead of dairy milk. 🥛🌰
Faq
- Q: Can I use instant oatmeal?
While it's best to use rolled oats for texture, you can use instant oatmeal in a pinch. Just be mindful that the texture may be slightly different.
- Q: How can I make the bars sweeter?
You can add a bit of honey, maple syrup, or even some chocolate chips to the mixture before baking. Adjust according to your sweet tooth!
- Q: Can I add other ingredients like dried fruits or nuts?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in dried fruits like raisins or cranberries and nuts like almonds or pecans to make the bars your own.
- Q: How should I store the bars?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
- Q: Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can easily double the recipe. Just make sure to use a larger baking dish or bake in two separate batches to ensure even baking.
- Q: Why did my bars come out too dry?
Overbaking or not enough banana can cause dryness. Make sure to check them at the minimum baking time and add an extra banana if your mixture seems too dry.
