This Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal is a warm, cozy treat that’s perfect for breakfast or a snack. With ripe bananas, oats, and a hint of cinnamon, it really tastes like dessert!
I love making this easy dish because it’s filling and simple. You can toss in nuts or chocolate chips for a fun twist. Plus, it’s great for meal prep—who doesn’t love breakfast ready to go?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats are the base for this dish. For a gluten-free option, use certified gluten-free oats. Steel-cut oats can also work, but you’ll need to adjust cooking time since they take longer to cook.
Ripe Bananas: The more ripe the bananas, the sweeter your oatmeal will be! If bananas aren’t available, unsweetened applesauce can work as a substitute with a similar texture.
Milk: You can use any type of milk, including almond, soy, or oat milk. For creaminess, try adding a bit of coconut milk. If you’re dairy-free, go for plant-based milk to suit your diet.
Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch. If you have nut allergies, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds can be great alternatives. Feel free to skip nuts altogether if you prefer.
How Do I Get the Oatmeal Perfectly Baked?
Baking the mixture to perfection is key to achieving a great texture in this oatmeal dish. Make sure to follow these simple tips:
- Preheat your oven thoroughly before baking. This ensures even cooking right from the start.
- Mix the wet and dry ingredients thoroughly but don’t overmix, as it can make the oatmeal dense.
- Check the oatmeal around the 35-minute mark. It should be set and lightly golden on the edges for a perfect bake.
- Let it cool for a few minutes after baking to firm up for easy slicing.
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll easily whip up a delicious Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal that’s both hearty and satisfying!
Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2-3 bananas)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- ¼ cup maple syrup or honey
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- ¼ cup raisins or chocolate chips (optional)
- 1 banana, sliced (for topping)
- Peanut butter or almond butter (for drizzling, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes around 10 minutes for preparation and about 35-40 minutes for baking. Altogether, you’ll be enjoying a delicious and cozy breakfast in about an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Pan:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, lightly grease an 8×8 inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Mixing the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Use a whisk or a fork to mix everything until it’s well combined.
3. Combining the Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, eggs, milk, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract until everything is nice and smooth.
4. Bringing It All Together:
Now it’s time to mix! Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir everything gently until it’s fully incorporated. If you’re adding nuts, raisins, or chocolate chips, fold them in now.
5. Baking Time:
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing out the top with a spatula. Pop it in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, until the oatmeal is set and the edges are lightly golden brown.
6. Final Touches:
Once it’s done, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Top with fresh banana slices and a drizzle of peanut butter or almond butter if you like. Serve it warm and enjoy a delicious slice of banana bread baked oatmeal!
This heartfelt dish is perfect for breakfast or as a satisfying snack any time of the day. Enjoy!
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
It’s best to use old-fashioned rolled oats for this recipe, as they provide the right texture and consistency. Instant oats can become mushy and won’t hold up as well in baking.
Can I Make This Baked Oatmeal Vegan?
Absolutely! To make it vegan, substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water for each egg). Use a plant-based milk and maple syrup to keep it all vegan-friendly!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftover baked oatmeal can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can also freeze slices for longer storage—just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag!
Can I Add Other Fruits or Mix-ins?
Yes! Feel free to customize your baked oatmeal. Add berries, chopped apples, or even shredded coconut for added flavor. Just be mindful of the moisture content to keep the texture perfect!
