Do you like dessert? What about dessert for breakfast?

These oatcakes are so decadent, they taste like a rich chocolate dessert. But these oatcakes are for breakfast and guilt-free!! Woo hoo! I admit, they aren’t too pretty. But don’t judge a book by its cover. These are wonderful!

This is the first of many recipes I will post this week in honor of National Oatmeal Month. Oatmeal is a powerfood, packing tons of fiber and lots of other nutrients like magnesium, iron, zinc and Vitamin E. Eating oatmeal may even reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol.

However, all oatmeal isn’t created equal. Those instant packets of oatmeal can contain tons of added sugar. A package of cinnamon roll oatmeal probably isn’t a great choice. I do keep instant oatmeal in my desk drawer for mornings that I’m running late and don’t have time for breakfast. I make sure to buy reduced-sugar varieties or plain instant oatmeal.

Using old fashioned oats or quick oats are even better options. The amazing thing about using these two options is that you can create any flavor you wish!

I made oatcakes for the first time last summer. These Cinnamon Oatcakes with Applesauce have become a regular breakfast for me. I LOVE these! I change them up sometimes by adding blueberries.  http://sweet-success.tumblr.com/post/8042876519/lets-eat-cinnamon-oatcakes-with-applesauce 

Chocolate Banana Oatcakes

1/2 uncooked oats

1 tsp. vanilla extract

1/2 tsp. cinnamon

1/2 tbsp. raw sugar

1 tbsp. dark unsweetened cocoa

1 tsp. ground flax seeds

1 banana, mashed

Combine all ingredients. Form two pancakes with the oatmeal mixture. Place the oatcakes on a nonstick pan and cook over medium heat until firm.

Enjoy.

*Recipe adapted from a recipe from Fitness Magazine