This Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal is a warm and cozy dish that’s easy to make. Packed with ripe bananas, oats, and a hint of cinnamon, it’s the perfect breakfast treat!
I love how you can enjoy it fresh from the oven or save some for later. Pair it with a drizzle of honey, and you’ve got a winner! It’s the kind of comfort food that makes mornings brighter. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bananas: Ripe bananas bring natural sweetness and moisture. If you have a banana allergy, unsweetened applesauce works well as a substitute.
Oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats are best for texture, but quick oats can be used in a pinch. Instant oats will yield a softer texture, so keep that in mind!
Milk: You can use either dairy or non-dairy milk like almond, soy, or oat milk. For added creaminess, try coconut milk.
Maple Syrup or Honey: Both add sweetness, but if you’re looking for a lower sugar option, you can use stevia or mashed dates instead.
Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans add great crunch. If you need a nut-free option, try pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds.
How Do I Make Sure My Baked Oatmeal Sets Perfectly?
The key to achieving a well-set baked oatmeal is balancing the wet and dry ingredients. Make sure to mash the bananas well; this helps them blend smoothly.
- Mixing the oats with dry ingredients ensures even distribution of baking powder and spices.
- Whisking the wet ingredients thoroughly allows for even consistency.
- Check for doneness after 35 minutes; the edges should be lightly brown, and the center will be slightly firm but not jiggly.
This method ensures you have a fluffy and delicious meal every time! Letting it cool slightly before slicing helps keep the shape, too.
Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- Sliced bananas for topping
- Nut butter for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal takes about 10 minutes to prep and 35-40 minutes to bake. Total, you’re looking at around 50 minutes before you get to enjoy this tasty dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, grab your 8×8-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or a little butter to prevent sticking.
2. Mixing the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the old-fashioned rolled oats, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Give it a good stir until everything is evenly mixed. This will ensure your oatmeal bakes evenly!
3. Combining the Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until they’re smooth and creamy. Then whisk in the milk, maple syrup (or honey), egg, and vanilla extract until all the wet ingredients are fully blended.
4. Combining Everything:
Now, pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir everything together until just combined. If you’d like to add some crunch, fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans at this stage!
5. Baking it Up:
Pour the combined mixture evenly into the greased baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. You want it set and slightly golden around the edges.
6. Cooling and Serving:
Once baked, take it out and let it cool for a few minutes. This helps it firm up a little more and makes slicing easier! Once cooled, cut it into squares. Serve it warm topped with sliced bananas and a drizzle of your favorite nut butter for added flavor!
Enjoy your hearty and delicious Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal! It’s perfect for breakfast or a cozy snack! 😊
Can I Make This Recipe Without Eggs?
Absolutely! You can replace the egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water). This keeps the moisture and binding without using eggs.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover baked oatmeal in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or slice and warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
Can I Add Other Fruits or Ingredients?
Yes! Feel free to mix in other fruits like berries, chopped apples, or dried fruits. Additionally, you can add extras like chocolate chips or seeds for a different flavor and texture!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make this Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal vegan, simply use non-dairy milk in place of regular milk and replace the egg with 1/4 cup of applesauce or a flax egg. It’s just as delicious!
