Step 1: Preheat Your Oven. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your baked oatmeal cooks evenly and becomes perfectly fluffy.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine the old-fashioned oats, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, and kosher salt. Stir these dry ingredients together until well mixed.
Step 3: Prepare the Wet Ingredients. In another bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Then add the almond milk, creamy peanut butter, eggs, pure maple syrup, and pure vanilla extract. Whisk together until everything is combined and the mixture is creamy.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay!
Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips. Gently fold in about 1/3 cup of the chocolate chips, reserving the rest for the top of the oatmeal.
Step 6: Transfer to Baking Dish. Grease your baking dish lightly, then pour the oatmeal mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips on top for an extra chocolaty finish.
Step 7: Bake. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool and Serve. Once baked, allow the oatmeal to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm, drizzled with extra peanut butter and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt if desired.