Even though I tend to wake up around 6:00 AM, I’ve never really been a huge coffee drinker. I feel pretty buzzed after a cup of green tea, so I’m a little nervous about what upping my caffeine dose might do. While I won’t drink a whole mug, I actually do really like the taste of coffee. I remember when I was younger So Delicious used to have this dairy free mocha fudge ice cream. It was amazing. Sadly, they discontinued the flavor and I’ve never been the same since. I guess that ice cream is what inspired my love for the coffee chocolate combo… and maybe because I feel a little left out among the morning coffee drinkers. Whether your a coffee addict or not, this Dark Chocolate Mocha oatmeal is the ultimate breakfast combination. Decadent, I know, but it’s actually a pretty healthy option. All naturally sweetened and loaded with plant based protein, complex carbohydrates and healthy fats, so you can’t feel bad about having chocolate for breakfast!
Just 5 simple ingredients, everything comes together in less than 10 min. The caramelized bananas may seem a little over the top, but it’s such an easy way to take your morning oatmeal to the next level. The key is to use bananas that are not too brown, a few speckles are ok, but you don’t want them falling apart in the pan. If you want a little extra sweetness, you can put a tbsp of brown sugar in with the coconut oil before frying.
Ingredients:
1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup black coffee
1 1/2 cup plantbased milk (or water)
2 tbsp cocoa powder (I like Droste)
1 tbsp maple syrup, or more to taste
Pinch of salt
1 just ripe banana
1 tsp coconut oil
1 tbsp brown sugar (optional)
For serving: dark chocolate, raspberries, dairy free vanilla yogurt, more milk
Instructions:
1. To make the caramelized bananas heat coconut oil in a skillet over medium heat under melted then place bananas flat side down in the oil. Cook for 3-4 minutes over medium heat or until bananas are bubbling and golden.
2. To make the oatmeal, bring oats, coffee, milk, maple syrup and salt to boil over medium heat. Reduce to low, cover and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. When all the liquid is absorbed, stir in cocoa powder and divide among bowls. Top with caramelized bananas and desired toppings.
