This Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal is a yummy way to start your day! With ripe bananas, oats, and a sprinkle of cinnamon, it tastes just like banana bread—warm and comforting.
Honestly, it’s like having dessert for breakfast! I love enjoying it topped with a little peanut butter or yogurt. It’s so easy to make, and my kitchen smells amazing while it bakes!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ripe Bananas: Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness. If you’re short on bananas, you can substitute with applesauce or mashed pumpkin. They add moisture and sweetness, too!
Oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats are ideal because they hold their shape well. Quick oats work, but the texture will be softer. If you’re gluten-free, ensure you use certified gluten-free oats.
Milk: Any type of milk works! I like almond milk for a nutty taste, but oat milk or regular dairy milk is perfectly fine. For a creamier texture, use full-fat options.
Maple Syrup or Honey: Both sweeteners give a lovely flavor. You can use agave syrup or even brown sugar if you’re out of maple syrup or honey.
Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch and flavor. If you prefer nut-free, just leave them out or swap in seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
How Do I Get the Perfect Bake on My Oatmeal?
Baking it just right is key to getting a soft, firm texture. Make sure to preheat your oven so the oatmeal bakes evenly. Here are some tips for success:
- Grease or line your baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Mix the ingredients until just combined; over-mixing can make it dense.
- Use a toothpick to check doneness. If it comes out clean, it’s ready!
- Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing to help it set.
Enjoy your baking! This Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal is a wonderful start to any day.
Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal
Ingredients:
- 2 large ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or nut butter for serving (optional)
- Banana slices, for topping
- Nut butter or syrup for drizzling (optional)
Time Needed:
This delicious Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30-35 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll spend about 45 minutes before it’s ready to enjoy.
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your oatmeal bakes evenly!
2. Mash the Bananas:
In a large bowl, take those ripe bananas and mash them until they’re nice and smooth. A fork works perfectly for this!
3. Mix Wet Ingredients:
Add in the egg, milk, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until it’s well combined.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, mix together the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. This helps to evenly incorporate all the dry ingredients.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
Pour the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. If you’re using nuts, fold them in gently.
6. Prepare for Baking:
Pour the oatmeal mixture into your prepared baking dish. Smooth out the top with a spatula for even baking.
7. Bake:
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean!
8. Cool and Slice:
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing into squares.
9. Serve:
Enjoy your Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal warm! Top with banana slices, a drizzle of nut butter or syrup, and a dollop of Greek yogurt if you like!
Enjoy your warm, comforting Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal!
Can I Use Overripe Bananas for This Recipe?
Absolutely! In fact, overripe bananas are perfect because they’re sweeter and easier to mash. Just make sure they’re not moldy or spoiled!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! To make it vegan, simply replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. Maple syrup is often a great sweetener for vegan recipes, too!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual servings in the microwave or in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through.
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to customize by adding chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or dried fruit. You can also swap in any nuts or seeds you like for extra crunch and nutrition!
