Brownie Baked Oatmeal

01Method

1. 1

   Heat the oven to 375°F. Lightly grease an 8x8-inch baking pan with cooking spray and set aside.

2. 2

   Using a fork, mash the bananas thoroughly in a large mixing bowl until smooth — you should end up with roughly 1 cup of mashed banana.

3. 3

   Add the oats, cocoa powder, chia seeds, espresso powder (if using), baking powder, and salt to the bowl. Fold everything together with a rubber spatula until evenly combined.

4. 4

   Pour in the almond milk, peanut butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract, stirring until fully incorporated. Fold in half of the chocolate.

5. 5

   Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan, spreading it into an even layer. Scatter the remaining chocolate over the top. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until the oatmeal is puffed, set, and pulling slightly away from the sides of the pan.

6. 6

   Allow the oatmeal to rest on the counter for 10 minutes. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired, then serve warm or at room temperature. When warm it will be creamy and scoopable; once cooled it firms up and can be sliced.