Caramelized Banana Chocolate Oats (Printable Version)

Hearty steel-cut oats with caramelized banana and chocolate, sweetened naturally for a nourishing morning start.

# Everything You’ll Need:

→ Liquids

01 - 1 cup soy milk or other milk of choice
02 - 2 cups water, divided

→ Dry Ingredients

03 - ½ cup steel-cut oats (gluten-free if needed)
04 - Pinch of salt
05 - 2 scoops vanilla protein powder (plant-based or whey)

→ Sweetener

06 - 2 tablespoons maple syrup or preferred sweetener

# Steps to Cook:

01 - Combine 1 cup water and 1 cup soy milk in a saucepan and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
02 - Add steel-cut oats and a pinch of salt to the simmering liquid. Cook for 20 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, adding additional milk or water if needed to maintain desired consistency.
03 - While oats are cooking, mix protein powder with the remaining 1 cup water until a smooth paste forms.
04 - Stir the protein mixture and maple syrup into the cooked oats until fully incorporated. Serve immediately with preferred toppings.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - Select a protein powder you enjoy, as its flavor will influence the oats. Adjust milk or water quantity to reach preferred texture. Salt enhances overall flavor and should not be omitted. Cooking time affects consistency: 20 minutes yields chewier oats, 30 minutes yields creamier results. Store leftovers refrigerated up to 5 days or frozen up to 3 months.