The Bomb Baked Banana Oatmeal (with protein)

You've probably noticed that a lot of my favorite recipes here feature oats. I absolutely love them! I've been a fan since I was a kid. As I got older, I discovered all the awesome health benefits oats offer. They're packed with nutrients like manganese, iron, minerals, and vitamin B. Plus, they're loaded with antioxidants and fiber, can help lower cholesterol, improve blood sugar levels, and they're super filling, tasty, and versatile. What's not to love?

This baked oats recipe is a perfect example of that versatility. It's great for meal prep for the week and can even be frozen, so you can easily make it a regular part of your routine and switch it up based on your mood. This is soul-satisfying, belly-warming, bowls of goodness - the bomb!

RECIPE: (makes 6-8 servings)

3 ripe bananas (about 1 1/4 c. mashed) (*1 1/2 c. if using whey protein powder)

2 eggs (or flax eggs)

1 tsp. vanilla

1 3/4 c. milk or alternate milk (coconut milk is sweet option) (*2 c. if using whey protein powder)

2 tbsp. maple syrup or less (opt.)

2 1/4 c. large flake oats

2 tsp. baking powder

1 tsp. cinnamon

1/4 tsp. salt

MIX-INS:

1/2 c. unsweetened shredded coconut

1/2 c. chopped walnuts (or other nut)

1/3 c. raisins or cranberries (optional) (can use chocolate chips if you like it sweet)

1-2 scoops of protein powder of choice (optional) (*if you use whey it will dry things out so look to modifications)

1. Preheat oven to 350 F and grease a 9x9 pan with coconut oil.

2. Whisk all wet ingredients together in large bowl.

3. Add dry ingredients to the bowl adn stir well to combine . (not mix-ins yet...be patient)

4. Fold in mix-ins! (Yay! We've been waiting for this part)

5. Pour into prepared pan and smooth the top.

6. Bake for 35-45 minutes until edges are slightly golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool 10 minutes.

7. Slice into 6-8 servings. Top with sliced banana, nut butter, milk, maple syrup or any options you fancy!

   
   
   
   

Store in fridge for 3-4 days. To freeze- wrap each slice in plastic wrap and then tin foil. Place in freezer bag. Warm upwrapped oatmeal in microwave for 30-90 seconds or eat cold.