This warm and cozy Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal is a delicious twist on a classic favorite. With ripe bananas, oats, and a hint of cinnamon, it’s perfect for breakfast!
Trust me, your mornings will thank you! I love to enjoy it with a drizzle of honey or a splash of milk. It’s like a big hug in a bowl! 😊
Ingredients & Substitutions
Old-fashioned rolled oats: These are perfect for the right texture, but you can use quick oats if that’s all you have. Just be mindful they may cook a bit quicker.
Bananas: The riper, the better! If you don’t have ripe bananas, you can mash up some less ripe ones and add a touch more sweetener. Applesauce can also substitute for some of the banana for a different flavor.
Maple Syrup or Honey: Maple syrup gives a warm flavor, but honey is a great alternative if you prefer. You could also use agave syrup or brown sugar for a different twist.
Milk: I like using almond milk for a nutty flavor, but any milk works well. If you’re dairy-free, go for oat milk or soy milk!
Eggs: If you’re vegan or avoiding eggs, try 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or half a mashed banana as a substitute for each egg.
How Do You Ensure Your Baked Oatmeal is the Perfect Texture?
Getting the right texture in baked oatmeal can be tricky. Here are a few tips to make sure it’s cozy and firm, not dry:
- Don’t skip the soaking step! Mixing wet and dry ingredients well helps the oats absorb moisture.
- Keep an eye on baking time since ovens vary. You want it golden but not overcooked.
- If you prefer it creamier, you can add a little more milk before baking or serve it warm with milk on top!
Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 large ripe bananas, mashed (plus extra slices for topping)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil or butter
Optional Additions:
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts or pecans)
- Peanut butter or syrup for drizzling on top
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful breakfast dish requires about 10 minutes of prep time and 35-40 minutes of baking time. So in under an hour, you’ll have a warm and filling baked oatmeal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). To make clean-up easier, lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Give it a good stir to mix everything together evenly.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, eggs, maple syrup (or honey), vanilla extract, milk, and melted coconut oil (or butter). Mix well until everything is combined smoothly.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixes:
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently stir until everything is just combined. If you want to add nuts, fold them in at this point.
5. Bake the Oatmeal:
Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Place it in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool and Serve:
Once done, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm with banana slices on top and a drizzle of peanut butter or syrup if you fancy!
Enjoy your comforting Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal! It’s sure to become a breakfast favorite! 😊
Can I Use Steel-Cut Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Steel-cut oats won’t work as well for this recipe since they require a longer cooking time and will result in a different texture. Stick with old-fashioned rolled oats for the best results!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! To make it vegan, substitute the eggs with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water). Use plant-based milk and keep it all vegan-friendly!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. To reheat, pop a slice in the microwave for a quick breakfast or warm it in the oven.
Can I Freeze Baked Oatmeal?
Yes, it freezes well! After cooling, slice the oatmeal and wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer-safe bag. It should keep well for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen in the microwave or oven when you’re ready to enjoy it!
