Banana-Chocolate Chip Baked Oatmeal

Think breakfast is overrated? Think again! It’s not just about avoiding being hangry – studies show that fueling up in the morning can boost your metabolism, improve focus, and even benefit your overall health. From better cholesterol levels to reduced risk of diabetes and heart disease, breakfast packs a powerful punch.

Oats and oatmeal are good sources of carbohydrates and fiber. They are also a good source of high-quality protein with a good balance of amino acids. Oats are also loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidant plant compounds.

This easy banana-chocolate chip baked oatmeal is perfect for a hearty breakfast and healthy snacks throughout the week. Chocolate chips and bananas add a touch of sweetness.

Makes 8 servings

Ingredients

2 cups (162 grams) oats

2 cups (480 milliliters) boiling water

2 large overripe bananas, reserve ½ banana, sliced, to garnish

¼ cup (60 milliliters) maple syrup

¼ cup (57 grams) protein powder

¼ cup (40 grams) hempseeds

½ cup (120 grams) dairy-free chocolate chips

¼ cup (56 grams) sliced almonds

2 teaspoons cinnamon

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1½ cups (360 milliliters) almond milk, or milk of choice

Flax Egg

1 tablespoon flaxseed meal

3 tablespoons water

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F/180°C. Line a 9-inch-by-13-inch (23-centimeter-by-33-centimeter) baking pan with parchment paper and set aside.
2. Combine oats and water in a large mixing bowl and let sit 10 to 15 minutes.
3. Prepare flax “egg”: Combine flaxseed meal and water in a small dish and refrigerate for 15 to 30 minutes or until thick.
4. Meanwhile, mash bananas in a medium bowl until smooth. Stir in flax egg, maple syrup, and protein powder. Pour the banana mixture over the oats and stir to combine. Add the remaining ingredients and stir until combined.
5. Pour oat batter into baking pan and top with remaining sliced banana.
6. Bake 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool about 5 minutes before slicing into 8 squares. Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
7. Note: You can add blueberries, apples or other fruit in place of chocolate chips if desired.

Per serving: 331 calories | 14 grams protein | 41 grams carbs | 13 grams fat