Name: Banana Baked Oatmeal Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 large bananas); 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey; 1 1/2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans; 1/4 cup chocolate chips or sliced bananas

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If you’ve ever wished breakfast could taste like a slice of banana bread but be as nourishing and easy as your favorite bowl of oats, Banana Baked Oatmeal is about to become your new morning ritual. There’s something almost magical about the way ripe bananas melt into old-fashioned oats, creating a cozy, crave-worthy bake that delivers comfort with every bite. Not only does this warm, oven-baked dish fill your kitchen with the most inviting aroma, but it’s a make-ahead marvel you’ll reach for all week (if it lasts that long!). Whether you’re fueling up for a busy day or planning a brunch with friends, Banana Baked Oatmeal strikes that perfect balance between wholesome and delicious.

Banana Baked Oatmeal Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

With this simple, powerhouse ingredient list, you’ll be amazed at how much flavor and heartiness a few pantry staples and a couple ripe bananas can bring to your breakfast table. Each ingredient plays a starring role in building Banana Baked Oatmeal’s irresistible texture, sweetness, and golden color.

Old-fashioned rolled oats: These form the nourishing, chewy base and hold everything together beautifully.
Baking powder: Lending just a little lift for a light, tender finish.
Ground cinnamon: The warm spice that cozies up to the bananas for amazing aroma and depth.
Salt: Just a pinch heightens all the other flavors and balances the sweetness.
Mashed ripe bananas: The natural sweetener and star of the show; overripe bananas give the best fragrance and depth.
Large eggs: They bind everything together and set the oatmeal into sliceable, satisfying squares.
Maple syrup or honey: Adds just enough sweetness and a subtle, caramel note—choose your favorite!
Milk (dairy or non-dairy): Ensures every bite is moist, creamy, and perfectly baked—almond, oat, and cow’s milk all work well.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor, bringing out the best in those bananas and oats.
Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): For extra crunch and nutty richness—totally optional, but highly recommended!
Chocolate chips or sliced bananas for topping (optional): Sprinkle on top for chocolatey goodness or a lovely golden banana finish.

How to Make Banana Baked Oatmeal

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s perfectly hot and ready for baking. Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with a little butter or nonstick spray to make serving (and cleaning up!) a breeze. Lining the dish with parchment isn’t necessary but can make it even easier to lift out slices later.

Step 2: Mix Your Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the old-fashioned rolled oats, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. This step helps distribute the leavening and spices so every bite of your Banana Baked Oatmeal is balanced and flavorful.

Step 3: Add Your Wet Ingredients

To the same bowl, add your mashed ripe bananas (the riper, the better for maximum sweetness), eggs, maple syrup or honey, milk, and vanilla extract. Give everything a good stir, making sure to scrape all the way to the bottom so those oats get fully coated and the mixture is smooth and even.

Step 4: Fold in the Extras

If you love a little crunch and nutty flavor, now’s the perfect time to gently fold in your chopped walnuts or pecans. You can absolutely leave them out for a nut-free Banana Baked Oatmeal, or stir in seeds like pumpkin or sunflower for a different twist.

Step 5: Bake and Top

Pour the oatmeal mixture into your prepared baking dish, then smooth the top with a spatula. Sprinkle with chocolate chips or arrange banana slices across the top if you’d like an extra special touch. Slide the dish into your hot oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until the center is set and the top is golden brown and slightly puffed.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Allow your Banana Baked Oatmeal to cool for about 5 to 10 minutes—this helps it set up and makes slicing effortless. Serve warm for the coziest morning treat, or let it cool to room temperature for perfectly portable breakfast bars!

How to Serve Banana Baked Oatmeal

Garnishes

Dress up each square with a drizzle of maple syrup, a dollop of creamy Greek yogurt, an extra sprinkle of cinnamon, or a few fresh banana slices. For extra crunch, a handful of toasted nuts on top works beautifully and adds a little flair to your Banana Baked Oatmeal.

Side Dishes

Pair your Banana Baked Oatmeal with a colorful fruit salad, crisp bacon, or scrambled eggs to turn your breakfast into a full-on feast. It’s also lovely alongside a steaming mug of coffee or a cold glass of milk for a well-rounded morning.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut your Banana Baked Oatmeal into small squares for grab-and-go breakfast snacks or picnic-friendly bites. Try layering slices into a breakfast parfait with yogurt and berries, or serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla yogurt for a healthy “breakfast sundae.” It also makes a delightful brunch centerpiece when arranged on a pretty platter!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, slice the Banana Baked Oatmeal and transfer the squares to an airtight container. They’ll keep wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to five days, making this recipe a true meal prep hero. You can grab a square whenever hunger strikes!

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze individual portions by wrapping each square in plastic wrap and placing them in a zip-top freezer bag. Banana Baked Oatmeal freezes beautifully for up to three months and can be thawed overnight in the fridge for effortless breakfasts on busy mornings.

Reheating

To reheat, simply pop a square (or two) into the microwave for 30 to 60 seconds until warmed through. If you prefer a crispier edge, heat in a toaster oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes. Either way, your Banana Baked Oatmeal will taste just as comforting as the day it was baked.

FAQs

Can I make Banana Baked Oatmeal vegan?

Absolutely! Swap the eggs for flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water, per egg) and use your favorite non-dairy milk to make this recipe 100 percent plant-based.

Is it possible to use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?

You can, in a pinch, but the texture will be a bit softer and slightly less chewy. Old-fashioned rolled oats are best for that hearty, classic bake, but quick oats will still deliver a tasty result.

What’s the best way to tell when my Banana Baked Oatmeal is done?

Check that the center is set and not at all jiggly—gently press the top, and if it springs back, you’re good to go. A golden brown top and a wonderful, toasty aroma are also good signs!

Can I add other mix-ins or flavorings?

Of course! You can stir in dried fruits like raisins or cranberries, shredded coconut, or even swap the walnuts for almonds. Mini chocolate chips or a swirl of peanut butter are also delicious with the banana base.

How do I keep my Banana Baked Oatmeal gluten-free?

Just be sure to use oats that are certified gluten-free. All the other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it a perfect breakfast for those with gluten sensitivities.

Final Thoughts

If you haven’t tried Banana Baked Oatmeal yet, there’s truly no better day than today to start. It’s fuss-free, nourishing, and puts ripe bananas to utterly delicious use. Give it a go and let your mornings become a little more comforting and a lot more flavorful!

Banana Baked Oatmeal Recipe

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4.6 from 11 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

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Description

This Banana Baked Oatmeal is a delicious and nutritious breakfast option that can be easily made ahead. With the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and a hint of cinnamon, this hearty dish is perfect for starting your day on a wholesome note.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients:

2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients:

1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 large bananas)
2 large eggs
1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
1 1/2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Toppings:

1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
1/4 cup chocolate chips or sliced bananas

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
Add wet ingredients: Add the mashed bananas, eggs, maple syrup, milk, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
Optional: Fold in the chopped nuts if using.
Bake: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, smooth the top, and add optional toppings. Bake for 35–40 minutes until set.
Cool and serve: Let cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.