Chocolate Banana Brownie Oatmeal Bake Recipe

If you’re craving something cozy, chocolatey, and a little bit different for breakfast or brunch, I’ve got just the thing for you. This Chocolate Banana Brownie Oatmeal Bake Recipe is basically dessert disguised as a wholesome morning meal—trust me, it’s fan-freaking-tastic. I love that it’s easy to make, naturally sweetened, and a total crowd-pleaser whether you’re feeding just yourself or a hungry family.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together to create that perfect balance of chocolatey richness, creamy texture, and wholesome oats. Plus, you’ll often find most of these staples right in your pantry or fridge, making last-minute breakfast decisions so much easier.

• Ripe Bananas: The riper, the better! They naturally sweeten and add moisture.
• Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: Gives just the right amount of chew and heartiness.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: For that deep chocolate flavor without extra sugar.
• Chia Seeds: A little nutritional boost and helps bind the bake.
• Espresso Powder (optional): Enhances the chocolate flavor—trust me, it’s magic.
• Baking Powder: Gives a slight puff and fluffiness.
• Kosher Salt: Balances flavors perfectly.
• Unsweetened Almond Milk: I prefer almond milk for its lightness but any milk works.
• Creamy Peanut Butter: Adds richness and a nutty twist.
• Pure Maple Syrup: Natural sweetness with a hint of caramel.
• Vanilla Extract: Just a touch to amplify all those flavors.
• Vegan Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips or Chopped Vegan Chocolate: Melts on top to create chocolate pockets.

Variations

I love experimenting with this Chocolate Banana Brownie Oatmeal Bake Recipe! It’s so flexible—you can amp it up or tone it down depending on your mood or dietary needs. Here are some of my favorite twists I’ve tried.

• Add Nuts or Seeds: I sometimes toss in walnuts or pumpkin seeds for crunch; the texture contrast is fantastic.
• Swap Peanut Butter for Almond or Sunflower Seed Butter: If you’re nut-free or want a milder flavor, this switch works like a charm.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free oats, and it’ll be safe for gluten-sensitive friends.
• Boost Protein: Stir in a scoop of your favorite plant-based protein powder to fuel your day.
• Extra Chocolate: Because why not? Feel free to sprinkle more chocolate chips on top before baking for extra melty goodness.

How to Make Chocolate Banana Brownie Oatmeal Bake Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Give your 8×8-inch baking pan a generous spray of non-stick cooking spray or lightly grease it with oil or vegan butter so your oatmeal bake slides out easily later. While the oven warms up, you can get moving on the batter—no rush!

Step 2: Mash Those Bananas Till Smooth

I find that ripe bananas mash best with a fork, turning into a creamy almost pudding-like base. You want about 1 cup of mashed banana, so aim for two very ripe medium ones. This step is key: ripe bananas give natural sweetness and moisture, so skip any that aren’t super ripe or you’ll lose that lusciousness.

Step 3: Combine All the Dry Ingredients

Next, add your rolled oats, unsweetened cocoa powder, chia seeds, espresso powder if using, baking powder, and kosher salt on top of your bananas. Gently stir everything together with a rubber spatula until all the oats are coated and the cocoa is evenly distributed. You’ll notice the chia seeds help everything stick just right without clumping.

Step 4: Stir in the Wet Ingredients and Half of the Chocolate

Pour in the almond milk, add the creamy peanut butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract, then stir everything together until fully combined. The batter will be thick but scoopable—perfect consistency for baking! Fold in half of your chocolate chips or chopped chocolate so the chocolate melts throughout the oatmeal.

Step 5: Bake and Enjoy the Chocolate Banana Brownie Oatmeal Bake Recipe!

Scrape the mixture into your prepared pan and spread evenly. Top with the remaining chocolate so it creates delightful melty pockets during baking. Pop it into the oven for about 30 to 35 minutes until the edges pull away slightly and the oatmeal looks puffed and set. When done, let it cool for 10 minutes to set—even though I’ll admit, waiting is the hardest part!

How to Serve Chocolate Banana Brownie Oatmeal Bake Recipe

Garnishes

I love sprinkling a little flaky sea salt on top right after baking—it brings out the chocolate’s richness and balances the sweetness perfectly. Sometimes, I add sliced fresh bananas or a dollop of coconut yogurt for extra creaminess and a fresh contrast.

Side Dishes

This bake is pretty hearty by itself, but I sometimes serve it alongside a simple mixed berry salad or a scoop of vanilla vegan ice cream for a special breakfast treat. For a brunch party, a plate of fresh fruit or a light green salad balances well.

Creative Ways to Present

For birthdays, I’ve turned this oatmeal bake into mini muffin tins for individual brownies—that surprise factor always wins big smiles. You can also drizzle melted chocolate or peanut butter on top for a beautiful, glossy finish if you’re aiming to impress guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store any leftover Chocolate Banana Brownie Oatmeal Bake Recipe in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps beautifully for up to 4 days. Just cover tightly so it doesn’t dry out, and it tastes even better the next day once the flavors settle.

Freezing

If I want to prep in advance, I slice the bake into portions and freeze them individually. Wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer-safe bag, they keep well for up to 3 months. This way, I can grab a slice for a quick breakfast anytime.

Reheating

I usually reheat slices by popping them in the microwave for about 30 to 45 seconds or reheating gently in a toaster oven. A warm slice tastes just like freshly baked, so don’t worry if you’re enjoying leftovers—it’s just as comforting!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Banana Brownie Oatmeal Bake Recipe has become my go-to when I want a breakfast that feels like a treat but gives me real energy. I remember the first time I made it, my whole family gathered in the kitchen, excited and impressed by how something so simple could be so rich and satisfying. I promise, once you try it, you’ll be hooked. So next time you want that chocolatey comfort food without the afternoon crash, whip this up and savor every last warm, gooey bite.

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