Banana Cocoa Oats Dessert — simple, healthy dessert | Ready in 30–35 minutes
Short introduction
Banana Cocoa Oats Dessert is a small baked oat bar made from mashed bananas, oats, and cocoa powder. It is a no-fuss, lightly sweet dessert or snack. You can make it with just a few ingredients and a single bowl. It is warm, chocolatey, and soft. This recipe works well for a quick treat or a healthy breakfast option.
introduction
why make this recipe
how to make Banana Cocoa Oats Dessert
Ingredients :
oats, cocoa powder, bananas
Directions :
- In a mixing bowl, mash the bananas until smooth., 2. Stir in the oats and cocoa powder until well combined., 3. Pour the mixture into a baking dish or mold., 4. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until set., 5. Allow to cool before slicing. Enjoy your dessert!
how to serve Banana Cocoa Oats Dessert
how to store Banana Cocoa Oats Dessert
tips to make Banana Cocoa Oats Dessert
variation (if any)
FAQs (minimum three FAQ)
Why you’ll love it
- Very easy: mix and bake in one dish.
- Few ingredients: uses oats, banana, and cocoa.
- Healthy-ish: whole oats and fruit add fiber and natural sweetness.
- Versatile: serve warm for dessert or cold for a snack.
- Kid-friendly: soft texture and chocolate taste please many kids.
Ingredients
- 2–3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats (old-fashioned oats)
- 2–3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
Optional (simple add-ins): - 1–2 tablespoons honey, maple syrup, or sugar (if you want it sweeter)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup milk or plant milk (if mixture seems dry)
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips or chopped nuts (optional)
Substitutions & key variations
- Oats: use quick oats if you prefer a softer texture. Steel-cut oats are not recommended.
- Cocoa powder: you can use raw cacao powder for a richer flavor.
- Bananas: very ripe bananas give more sweetness and moisture. If bananas are firm, add a little sweetener.
- Add-ins: mix in peanut butter, cinnamon, or shredded coconut for new flavors.
- Make it vegan: use maple syrup and plant milk instead of honey and dairy.
Step-by-step
Step 1 — Prep
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly oil or line a small baking dish or loaf pan.
Step 2 — Mix wet and dry
In a bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. Add oats and cocoa powder. Stir until the oats are fully coated and the mix looks even. If the mix feels very thick, add up to 1/4 cup milk.
Step 3 — Add flavor (optional)
Stir in vanilla, a pinch of salt, or sweetener if you want. Fold in chocolate chips or nuts if using.
Step 4 — Bake
Pour the mixture into the prepared dish. Smooth the top. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until set and slightly firm on top.
Step 5 — Cool & slice
Let it cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes. Then slice and serve warm or let it cool fully and cut into bars.
Success tips
- Use ripe bananas for natural sweetness and moisture.
- Do not overbake. The center should be set but still soft. Overbaking makes it dry.
- If the mixture is too dry, add a splash of milk. If too wet, add a few more tablespoons of oats.
- Press the mixture evenly in the pan to bake uniformly.
- Check doneness with a toothpick in the center — it should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.
How to serve
- Serve warm with a spoonful of yogurt, whipped cream, or a drizzle of honey.
- Top with fresh banana slices, berries, or a few chocolate chips.
- Cut into bars for a grab-and-go snack.
- Serve with a cup of coffee or milk for a simple breakfast.
Storage & reheating
- Room temp: store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: keep in an airtight container for 4–5 days.
- Freezer: wrap bars individually and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
- Reheat: warm in a toaster oven or microwave for 20–40 seconds until soft. If reheating from frozen, add extra 30–60 seconds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
A: Yes. Quick oats work fine and make a softer texture. Use the same amount.
Q: Do I need to add sugar?
A: Not if your bananas are ripe. Add a little honey or maple syrup if you want it sweeter.
Q: Can I bake this in a muffin tin?
A: Yes. Bake for about 12–15 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Check with a toothpick.
Q: Is this gluten-free?
A: Use certified gluten-free oats to make it gluten-free.
Q: Can I add protein powder?
A: Yes, reduce oats slightly and add 1–2 tablespoons protein powder. You may need a splash of milk.
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Nutrition notes / equivalents
- One small bar (about 1/8 of recipe) is roughly: 120–160 calories depending on add-ins.
- Oats add fiber and slow-release energy. Bananas add potassium and natural sugar. Cocoa powder adds flavor with little fat.
Conclusion + CTA
Try this easy Banana Cocoa Oats Dessert when you want a quick, lower-effort sweet. If you like baked banana-oat treats, you may also enjoy this similar recipe: Chocolate Banana Baked Oatmeal. Give the recipe a try and tell someone about it.
Links to related recipes
- Baked Apple Oat Bars
- Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Cups
- Simple Chocolate Oat Cookies