Looking for a nutritious, easy, and delicious breakfast? This Cocoa Banana Oatmeal Bake is a perfect make-ahead meal that is naturally sweetened, gluten-free, and packed with fiber.
With the combination of bananas, cocoa, oats, and warm spices, this breakfast bake tastes like chocolate banana bread, but it’s much healthier!
Whether you eat it warm or cold, with yogurt or peanut butter, this baked oatmeal will keep you full and energized throughout the morning.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in just one bowl and 35 minutes!
✔ Nutritious – Packed with fiber, protein, and healthy fats.
✔ Naturally Sweetened – Uses ripe bananas and a touch of honey instead of refined sugar.
✔ Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free Options – Can be customized for any diet!
✔ Meal-Prep Friendly – Make it once and enjoy all week.
Ingredients for Cocoa Banana Oatmeal Bake
Dry Ingredients:
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2 cups old-fashioned oats (gluten-free if needed)
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¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (for a rich chocolate flavor)
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1 teaspoon baking powder (helps with texture)
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½ teaspoon cinnamon (adds warmth and depth)
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¼ teaspoon salt (enhances the flavor)
Wet Ingredients:
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2 large ripe bananas, mashed (adds natural sweetness)
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1 cup milk of choice (dairy or non-dairy)
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2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
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1 large egg (or flax egg for vegan option)
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract (adds a delicious aroma)
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2 tablespoons melted coconut oil or butter (for moisture)
Optional Mix-Ins:
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¼ cup dark chocolate chips (for extra chocolatey goodness)
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¼ cup chopped nuts (walnuts, almonds, or pecans) (for crunch)
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1 tablespoon chia seeds or flaxseeds (for extra fiber)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
✔ Oats
✔ Cocoa powder
✔ Baking powder
✔ Cinnamon
✔ Salt
Whisk them together to evenly distribute the cocoa powder and baking powder.
Step 3: Mash the Bananas & Mix the Wet Ingredients
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In a separate bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth.
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Add the milk, honey (or maple syrup), egg, vanilla extract, and melted coconut oil.
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Whisk until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients
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Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients.
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Stir until everything is well combined.
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Gently fold in chocolate chips, nuts, or any other mix-ins.
Step 5: Bake the Oatmeal
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Pour the batter into the greased baking dish.
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Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
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Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, it’s ready!
Step 6: Cool & Serve
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Let the baked oatmeal cool for 10 minutes before slicing.
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Serve warm with Greek yogurt, fresh fruit, or a drizzle of peanut butter.
Serving Suggestions
🍌 With Yogurt & Fruit – Top with Greek yogurt, sliced bananas, and berries.
🥜 With Nut Butter – Drizzle almond or peanut butter on top for extra protein.
☕ With Coffee or Tea – Enjoy as a healthy breakfast or snack with a hot drink.
🍫 As a Dessert – Warm it up and serve with a dollop of whipped cream.
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
Refrigerator:
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Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer:
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Cut into squares and store in a ziplock bag for up to 3 months.
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Reheat in the microwave for 30 seconds before serving.
Make-Ahead Tip:
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Mix all ingredients the night before, cover, and refrigerate.
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Bake fresh in the morning!
Health Benefits of Cocoa Banana Oatmeal Bake
🔥 High in Fiber – Oats keep you full longer and support digestion.
🔥 Naturally Sweetened – Uses bananas and honey instead of refined sugar.
🔥 Rich in Antioxidants – Cocoa powder contains powerful antioxidants that support heart health.
🔥 Protein-Packed – Eggs and milk add protein for muscle repair and energy.
🔥 Great for Weight Management – Keeps you satisfied and curbs sugar cravings.
Flavor Variations & Twists
🍎 Apple Cinnamon Version – Swap bananas for applesauce and add extra cinnamon.
🥥 Coconut Chocolate Bake – Add shredded coconut and use coconut milk.
🥕 Carrot Cake Style – Mix in grated carrots and chopped walnuts.
💪 Protein Boost – Stir in 1 scoop of chocolate protein powder.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this oatmeal bake vegan?
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Yes! Use a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) and non-dairy milk.
2. Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
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Yes, but the texture will be softer. Rolled oats give the best chewy texture.
3. How do I make this oatmeal bake sweeter?
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Add extra honey, maple syrup, or stevia to taste.
4. Can I bake this in muffin tins?
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Absolutely! Bake in a muffin tin for 18-20 minutes for easy grab-and-go portions.
5. Is this oatmeal bake good for kids?
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Yes! It’s naturally sweetened, healthy, and kid-friendly.
Final Thoughts
This Cocoa Banana Oatmeal Bake is a delicious, healthy, and filling breakfast that’s perfect for meal prep.
✔ It’s naturally sweet, chocolatey, and packed with nutritious ingredients!
✔ Make a batch today and enjoy a wholesome breakfast all week long!
🔥 Try this recipe and let me know how you like it! 🔥
