Imagine waking up to a breakfast that combines the rich, decadent flavors of dark chocolate with the comforting warmth of banana bread - all packed into a nutritious, one-pan baked oatmeal! This isn't just another boring breakfast; it's a morning game-changer that will transform your entire day. Perfect for meal preppers, health enthusiasts, and anyone craving a deliciously satisfying morning treat that feels like dessert but nourishes your body from the inside out.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 2 ripe bananas
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
- 2 cups almond milk
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x9 inch baking dish or a 10-inch cast iron skillet with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth and creamy using a fork or potato masher. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful the baked oatmeal will be.
- Add almond milk, vanilla extract, and mix the wet ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, combine rolled oats, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. Whisk these dry ingredients together to ensure even distribution.
- Pour the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients and stir until everything is completely incorporated and no dry spots remain.
- Gently fold in most of the dark chocolate chips, reserving a small handful for topping.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the oatmeal is set in the center. A toothpick inserted should come out mostly clean.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the baked oatmeal to set and makes it easier to slice.
- Serve warm, optionally topped with additional sliced bananas, a drizzle of honey, or a scoop of yogurt.
Tips
- Choose Overripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your baked oatmeal will be. Look for bananas with dark spots and soft texture.
- Use High-Quality Dark Chocolate: Opt for dark chocolate chips with at least 70% cocoa for deeper flavor and potential health benefits.
- Don't Overmix: Gently fold ingredients to keep the texture light and prevent a dense, tough oatmeal.
- Check for Doneness: The top should be golden brown, and a toothpick should come out mostly clean.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the baked oatmeal to cool for 5-10 minutes helps it set and makes slicing easier.
- Customize Your Toppings: Experiment with additional toppings like nuts, seeds, or a drizzle of honey to make it your own.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 0mg
