Banana Cinnamon Baked Oats
Highlighted under: Sweet Creations Studio
I love starting my day with a warm, comforting bowl of Banana Cinnamon Baked Oats. The combination of ripe bananas and aromatic cinnamon transforms plain oats into a delightful breakfast treat that's both satisfying and healthy. I often prepare this dish on busy mornings since it only requires a few simple ingredients and is incredibly easy to make. Plus, it fills the house with the most wonderful aroma as it bakes, making it hard to wait before diving in!
When I first tried Banana Cinnamon Baked Oats, I was amazed at how simple it was to elevate my usual morning oats into something truly special. The moistness of the bananas perfectly complements the nutty flavor of the oats, and I've found that a touch of cinnamon brings everything together beautifully. I often use overripe bananas as they add natural sweetness and a softer texture.
To ensure the best results, I mix the oats thoroughly with the banana mixture before baking. This method guarantees that every bite is flavorful. I also love to top it with fresh fruits and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for added sweetness and texture!
Why You'll Love These Baked Oats
- Deliciously sweet with a touch of cinnamon
- Packed with wholesome ingredients for a nutritious breakfast
- Easily customizable with toppings and mix-ins
Baking with Bananas
Ripe bananas are the star ingredient in this recipe, providing natural sweetness and moisture. It's crucial to use bananas that are well-ripened with plenty of brown spots, as they offer the best flavor and texture for the baked oats. If you find yourself with extra ripe bananas, this is an excellent way to utilize them instead of letting them go to waste. Plus, the simple act of mashing them allows for a smoother incorporation into the mixture, which enhances the creaminess of the oats.
When combining the wet ingredients, make sure to blend the bananas thoroughly with the milk and honey. A whisk or a fork works wonderfully, as you want a consistent texture without clumps. This thorough mixing ensures that every bite of the baked oats is infused with the delicious banana flavor, making it a cohesive dish. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the amount of honey or maple syrup based on your sweetness preference; just keep in mind that overly sweetened oats can overshadow the natural flavors.
Serving Suggestions
After allowing the baked oats to cool for a few minutes, think about how you want to serve them. I enjoy topping mine with a dollop of Greek yogurt for added creaminess, or a drizzle of nut butter to give a little more protein and healthy fats. Fresh fruits like berries or sliced bananas can also elevate the dish, adding brightness and additional nutrients. If you prefer crunch, consider sprinkling some chopped nuts or seeds on top before serving, making for a satisfying contrast to the soft oats.
For those chilly mornings, serving the baked oats warm is particularly comforting. However, if you’re looking to make breakfast preparations in advance, these baked oats reheat beautifully in the microwave. Simply cut them into squares, store in an airtight container, and pop them in the microwave for 30-60 seconds when you’re ready to eat. This not only preserves the flavors but also allows for a quick and nutritious breakfast option throughout the week.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients for a warm, nutritious breakfast.
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
Make sure to have your ingredients ready for a quick assembly!
Instructions
Follow these easy steps to prepare your baked oats.
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, blend mashed bananas, milk, vanilla extract, and honey until well combined.
Combine and Transfer
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir well. Transfer the mixture into the greased baking dish.
Bake
Bake for about 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and set.
Serve
Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve it warm, topped with fresh fruits or nuts if desired.
Enjoy your warm Banana Cinnamon Baked Oats!
Pro Tips
- For an even richer flavor, try adding chopped nuts or dried fruits before baking. Also, you can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey/maple syrup based on your taste preference.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
If you love preparing meals ahead of time, consider making a double batch of these Banana Cinnamon Baked Oats. They store well in the refrigerator for up to five days. Just remember to allow them to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the microwave, or for a crispier texture, pop into the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
For longer storage, these baked oats freeze well too! Slice them into portions and wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, defrost overnight in the refrigerator and warm them up in the microwave or oven as mentioned before. This makes for a great grab-and-go breakfast option for anyone with a busy schedule.
Ingredient Variations
Feel free to customize your baked oats according to your dietary preferences or what you have on hand. For a dairy-free version, use almond milk or coconut milk, which can also add extra flavor. If you’re looking to reduce sugar, unsweetened applesauce can replace some or all of the honey or maple syrup without sacrificing moisture or texture.
In addition to the classic banana and cinnamon combo, this recipe is versatile enough to handle various mix-ins. Try adding chopped walnuts or pecans for nutty crunch, or throw in some dark chocolate chips for a dessert-like twist. You can also substitute other spices like nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a seasonal flair, adjusting the flavor profile while keeping the core deliciousness intact.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, but baking time may need to be adjusted as quick oats cook faster.
→ How can I make this recipe vegan?
Simply replace the milk with a non-dairy alternative and use maple syrup instead of honey.
→ Can I prepare this in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture the night before and bake it in the morning.
→ What toppings do you recommend?
I recommend fresh berries, nuts, or a dollop of yogurt for added creaminess!
Banana Cinnamon Baked Oats
I love starting my day with a warm, comforting bowl of Banana Cinnamon Baked Oats. The combination of ripe bananas and aromatic cinnamon transforms plain oats into a delightful breakfast treat that's both satisfying and healthy. I often prepare this dish on busy mornings since it only requires a few simple ingredients and is incredibly easy to make. Plus, it fills the house with the most wonderful aroma as it bakes, making it hard to wait before diving in!
Created by: Heidi Lawson
Recipe Type: Sweet Creations Studio
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: Serves 4
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
In a large bowl, mix together the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
In another bowl, blend mashed bananas, milk, vanilla extract, and honey until well combined.
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir well. Transfer the mixture into the greased baking dish.
Bake for about 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and set.
Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve it warm, topped with fresh fruits or nuts if desired.
Extra Tips
- For an even richer flavor, try adding chopped nuts or dried fruits before baking. Also, you can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey/maple syrup based on your taste preference.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 42g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 6g