Banana Oat Bread with Dried Fruits

Banana Oat Bread with Dried Fruits

Ingredients:

• 2 cups rolled oats
• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1/2 cup dried fruits (e.g., raisins, cranberries, or chopped apricots)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for flavor)
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
• 1/4 cup milk (dairy or plant-based, as needed)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Line a loaf pan with parchment paper or grease it lightly.
2. Prepare the Oats:
   • In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, baking powder, and cinnamon (if using).
3. Mash the Bananas:
   • In another bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
4. Mix the Ingredients:
   • Add the mashed bananas to the oats mixture.
   • Stir in the dried fruits and honey or maple syrup (if using).
   • Add milk gradually until the mixture forms a thick batter.
5. Pour into Pan:
   • Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 30–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and Serve:
   • Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing.
   • Serve as is, or with a spread of your choice for a wholesome snack.