Chocolate Oatmeal Banana Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Naturally Sweetened: Uses ripe bananas for natural sweetness and moisture.

• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with oats and bananas for fiber and energy.

• Moist and Flavorful: Rich chocolate taste with a soft, tender crumb.

• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 1/2 cups rolled oats

• 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2-3 bananas)

• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 2 large eggs

• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup

• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or dairy-free yogurt

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)

• 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8-inch cake pan.

2. Prepare Oats: Pulse rolled oats in a food processor or blender until they reach a flour-like consistency.

3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, combine oat flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

4. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together mashed bananas, eggs, honey, yogurt, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth.

5. Mix Batter: Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips if using.

6. Bake: Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. Cool and Serve: Let cake cool for 10 minutes in the pan before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes

• Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes

• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Add Nuts: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for extra texture.

• Frosting: Top with Greek yogurt frosting or a drizzle of melted chocolate.

• Vegan Option: Use flax eggs and dairy-free yogurt and milk.

• Fruit Add-Ins: Add blueberries or chopped strawberries for more fruit flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

• Freezing: Freeze cake wrapped tightly for up to 3 months.

• Reheating: Warm slices gently in the microwave before serving.

FAQs

Can I use quick oats instead?

Yes, but the texture will be slightly different.

How ripe should the bananas be?

Very ripe bananas with brown spots yield the best flavor and sweetness.

Can I use all-purpose flour?

Yes, but oats add a nutritious boost and unique texture.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Use certified gluten-free oats and ensure other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I add protein powder?

Yes, add a scoop to the dry ingredients.

How do I store leftovers?

Keep in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge.

Is this cake suitable for kids?

Yes, it’s a wholesome and tasty option for children.

Can I make muffins instead?

Yes, bake in a muffin tin for 18-20 minutes.

How sweet is this cake?

Moderately sweet; adjust honey or maple syrup to taste.

Can I add spices?

Cinnamon or nutmeg pairs nicely with banana and chocolate.

Conclusion

Chocolate Oatmeal Banana Cake is a delicious and healthy dessert that combines the best of bananas, oats, and chocolate into a moist, flavorful cake. Easy to make and packed with wholesome ingredients, it’s perfect for any time you want a nourishing treat.