Method
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8-inch round or square baking pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mash the Bananas
In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Ensure there are no large lumps for a uniform texture.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
Add the egg (or flax egg), milk, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Whisk until well combined.
Step 4: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
Add the rolled oats (or oat flour), cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt to the wet mixture. Stir until everything is just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light and moist.
Step 5: Add the Chocolate Chips
Fold in the dark chocolate chips. These will melt into the cake for bursts of gooey chocolate in every bite.
Step 6: Pour and Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle a few extra chocolate chips on top for decoration. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Serve warm for a molten chocolate effect, or let it cool completely for a firmer texture.
Tips for the Perfect Cake
- Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your cake will be.
- Oat Texture Options: For a smoother cake, blend your oats into a fine flour. For a heartier texture, use them whole or lightly pulsed.
- Vegan Option: Substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water).
- Custom Toppings: Add crushed nuts, shredded coconut, or a drizzle of peanut butter on top for extra flair.
- Make It Gluten-Free: Ensure your oats are certified gluten-free if you're catering to dietary restrictions.
