This Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal is a comforting twist on classic oatmeal! It’s packed with ripe bananas, warm spices, and a touch of sweetness—perfect for breakfast or a snack.
It’s easy to whip up, and your kitchen will smell amazing as it bakes! I love serving it warm with a splash of milk or a drizzle of honey. Give it a try—you’ll be hooked! 🍌
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bananas: Ripe bananas are the star here! They add natural sweetness and moisture. If you’re fresh out, you can use applesauce as a substitute—1/4 cup equals one banana.
Oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats lend a hearty texture. If you have quick oats, those will work too, but the texture will be softer.
Maple Syrup or Honey: I love using maple syrup for its rich flavor. If you prefer, agave nectar or brown sugar can also be good options.
Milk: Any kind of milk works! I often use almond milk for a lighter touch, but you could also use oat milk, soy milk, or even dairy milk if you prefer.
Coconut Oil or Butter: Melted coconut oil gives a subtle flavor. However, unsalted butter is a great alternative for a richer taste.
How Do I Ensure My Oatmeal Cooks Evenly?
To get the right texture, it’s crucial to mix your dry and wet ingredients well. Start by getting those oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt combined in one bowl. In another bowl, thoroughly mix those mashed bananas with the syrup, milk, egg, and melted oil or butter. This ensures your oatmeal bakes evenly and doesn’t have clumps.
- Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking—it helps everything cook evenly.
- Keep an eye on the time! You want a lightly golden color on top and a firm texture. If it looks jiggly, give it a few more minutes.
Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
- 1 1/2 cups milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil or butter
- Optional toppings: sliced bananas, nut butter, or drizzle of caramel sauce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal takes about 10 minutes to prep and 35-40 minutes to bake, making it a quick and wholesome breakfast option. Enjoy it warm and fresh from the oven!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Baking Dish:
First things first—preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with a little oil or butter or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup later. This will ensure your oatmeal doesn’t stick!
2. Mixing the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix together the rolled oats, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. This dry mixture sets the base for all the delicious flavors to come!
3. Combining the Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, maple syrup (or honey), milk, egg, vanilla extract, and melted coconut oil (or butter). Make sure everything is well-combined—you want a nice, smooth mixture!
4. Bringing It All Together:
Now, pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently stir together until everything is well mixed. Don’t over-stir—just combine until you see no dry oats!
5. Baking Your Oatmeal:
Pour the combined mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Pop it in the oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is lightly golden and it has set up nicely.
6. Serving the Oatmeal:
Once baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Cut into squares and serve warm, topped with additional banana slices, a dollop of nut butter, or a drizzle of caramel sauce if you’re feeling extra indulgent!
Enjoy this cozy and hearty Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal for a nutritious and delicious breakfast that’s sure to keep you satisfied for hours!
Can I Use Other Fruits Besides Bananas?
Absolutely! You can switch out bananas for other fruits like apples or berries. If using apples, you might want to add a bit more sweetness since they’re not as naturally sweet as bananas.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! To make it vegan, simply substitute the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water), and use plant-based milk and maple syrup, which is already vegan!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm them in the oven for a few minutes.
Can I Freeze This Baked Oatmeal?
Yes, you can freeze portions of the baked oatmeal! Cut it into squares, place them in freezer-safe containers, and they’ll keep well for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.