Introduction:
Baked oatmeal with bananas is a warm and comforting breakfast that’s both healthy and delicious.
Packed with whole grains, natural sweetness from ripe bananas, and a hint of cinnamon, this dish is perfect for busy mornings or a cozy weekend brunch.
It’s simple to make, can be customized with various add-ins, and can even be prepared ahead of time for an easy, grab-and-go breakfast option.
Ingredients:
2 ripe bananas, mashed
2 cups rolled oats
1 ½ cups milk (dairy or non-dairy like almond, oat, or soy milk)
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ cup maple syrup or honey (optional for added sweetness)
1 tablespoon coconut oil or butter, melted
¼ cup chopped nuts (optional, such as walnuts or almonds)
¼ cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
Fresh banana slices for topping (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
Prepare the oatmeal mixture: In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
Add the rolled oats, milk, egg, vanilla extract, cinnamon, baking powder, salt, maple syrup (if using), and melted coconut oil or butter.
Stir until all ingredients are well combined.
Add extras (optional): Fold in chopped nuts, dried fruit, or any additional toppings you’d like.
Bake: Pour the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Serve: Let the baked oatmeal cool for a few minutes. Slice and serve warm, topping with fresh banana slices if desired.
Description: This baked oatmeal with bananas is a perfect balance of softness and texture, with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas blended into the oats. The oatmeal bakes into a firm, custardy texture while remaining moist on the inside. The banana flavor is the star of the dish, but the cinnamon and vanilla add a comforting aroma and warmth. It’s an easy, versatile breakfast that can be made ahead and reheated for busy mornings or served fresh for a weekend treat.
Tips:
Make it ahead: You can prepare the oatmeal mixture the night before, cover it, and store it in the fridge. In the morning, just bake it for a quick and easy breakfast.
Customize it: Add a handful of your favorite add-ins, like chopped apples, berries, or chocolate chips, to make the dish your own.
For a dairy-free version: Use your favorite non-dairy milk (like almond or coconut milk) and opt for a plant-based butter substitute.
Sweeten to taste: If you like your oatmeal on the sweeter side, you can increase the amount of maple syrup or honey, or even add a little brown sugar.
Variations:
Banana and Peanut Butter: Swirl a few tablespoons of peanut butter into the oatmeal mixture for a rich, nutty flavor.
Banana and Chocolate Chip: Add chocolate chips for a sweet treat that’s still healthy enough for breakfast.
Banana and Berry: Add fresh or frozen mixed berries, like blueberries or strawberries, for a fruity twist.
Banana and Almond Joy: Mix in shredded coconut, chopped almonds, and a few chocolate chips for an Almond Joy-inspired breakfast.
Corrections:
Baking time: Depending on your oven and the type of baking dish you use, the baking time may vary slightly. If the center isn’t fully set after 40 minutes, cover the dish with foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Consistency: If you find the oatmeal too thick, you can add a bit more milk to reach your desired consistency before baking.
Enjoy:
Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy the comforting, warm dish with a drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of yogurt for extra creaminess. Whether eaten warm or reheated, this baked oatmeal with bananas will quickly become a breakfast favorite in your household!