This Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal is a warm and hearty treat! Packed with ripe bananas, oats, and a hint of cinnamon, it’s like breakfast and dessert in one.
Who knew that oatmeal could taste so good? I love enjoying a slice with a splash of milk or some yogurt on top—it’s a cozy way to start the day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ripe Bananas: The star of this recipe! Using very ripe bananas gives maximum sweetness and flavor. If you’re out of bananas, unsweetened applesauce can be a good replacement, but the flavor will change slightly.
Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: These are perfect for texture and bake up nicely. Quick oats work too, but avoid instant oats as they may not hold their shape and can become mushy.
Milk: Any milk works, whether dairy or plant-based like almond or oat milk. This keeps the oatmeal moist. If you’re looking for a creamier texture, try using coconut milk.
Egg: This helps bind the mixture. For a vegan option, you can use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) or omit entirely and add a bit more banana.
How Do I Ensure My Oatmeal Bakes Perfectly?
Getting the right bake on your Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal is crucial! Here are a few tips to help you succeed:
- Preheat the Oven: Always start by preheating your oven to ensure even baking from the get-go.
- Grease the Baking Dish: This prevents sticking and makes it easier to serve. A light coat of cooking spray works wonders.
- Mix Well: Be sure to combine all wet ingredients smoothly before adding the oats. This ensures even distribution of flavors and texture.
- Check for Doneness: When the edges are golden and a toothpick comes out clean from the center, your oatmeal is ready. Don’t overbake, as it will continue to cook slightly after removed from the oven.
With these tips, you’ll have a delicious, hearty breakfast that’s perfect for any day! Enjoy your baking!
How to Make Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 3 very 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 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- Sliced bananas, for topping
- Nut butter or syrup, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 35-40 minutes to bake. After that, allow it to cool slightly before serving. In total, you’re looking at just under an hour for an amazing breakfast treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish to prevent the oatmeal from sticking.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, milk, egg, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract. Use a fork or a whisk to mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth—it should look creamy and fluffy.
3. Add the Dry Ingredients:
Next, sprinkle in the rolled oats, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir all the ingredients together until well combined. If you’re using nuts, gently fold them in now for that extra crunch!
4. Assemble the Oatmeal:
Pour your oat mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it out evenly. This helps everything bake nicely. Now, take the banana slices and arrange them on top of the mixture, pressing them lightly into the surface so they set in while baking.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Place your dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. Keep an eye on it—the edges should be golden brown and the center should be set. A toothpick inserted in the middle should come out clean!
6. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes—this makes slicing easier. Cut into squares and serve warm. Drizzle with your favorite nut butter or syrup if you’d like, and enjoy this comforting and nutritious breakfast!
Enjoy the warm, delicious flavors of your Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal!
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Bananas?
Absolutely! You can substitute mashed bananas with other fruits like applesauce, pumpkin puree, or even blended berries. Just keep in mind that it may alter the flavor and sweetness, so adjust sugar or syrup as needed!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! To make it vegan, simply replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) and use plant-based milk. The bananas add natural sweetness, so you might not need to adjust the syrup significantly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can heat individual portions in the microwave or oven for a quick breakfast or snack. If it seems dry upon reheating, add a splash of milk for moisture!
Can I Freeze Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal?
Yes, you can! Just let it cool completely, then slice it and wrap the pieces in plastic wrap or foil, and place them in a freezer-safe container. It will last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating!
