Here’s a recipe for a delicious and healthy Banana Oats Chocolate Dessert that is gluten-free, sugar-free, and butter-free:
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe bananas
- 1 cup rolled oats (gluten-free if necessary)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup chopped dark chocolate or sugar-free chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any milk of your choice)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- Optional toppings: sliced bananas, chopped nuts, coconut flakes
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
- Add the rolled oats, cocoa powder, almond milk, vanilla extract, baking powder, and a pinch of salt to the mashed bananas. Mix until well combined.
- Fold in the chopped dark chocolate or sugar-free chocolate chips.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- If desired, top the mixture with sliced bananas, chopped nuts, or coconut flakes.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the dessert to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
- Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Health Benefits:
Bananas:
- Rich in potassium, which is essential for heart health and muscle function.
- High in fiber, promoting digestion and gut health.
- Contains vitamins C and B6, important for immune function and brain health.
Oats:
- Gluten-free whole grain, providing a good source of fiber and complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.
- Contains beta-glucan, a type of soluble fiber that helps lower cholesterol levels and improve heart health.
- Rich in antioxidants, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
Dark Chocolate:
- Rich in antioxidants called flavonoids, which have been linked to various health benefits including improved heart health and brain function.
- Contains minerals such as iron, magnesium, and zinc.
- May help lower blood pressure and improve blood flow.
This dessert is a healthier alternative to traditional baked goods, providing sweetness from natural sources like bananas and dark chocolate without the need for added sugar or butter. Enjoy it guilt-free as a satisfying treat!