Baked Banana Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Recipe
If you are craving a comforting breakfast that feels both indulgent and wholesome, the Baked Banana Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Recipe is going to be your new favorite. This baked oatmeal combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the rich, melty goodness of chocolate chips and hearty rolled oats for a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s the kind of dish that warms you up from the inside out and makes mornings something to look forward to. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, this recipe delivers a cozy, delicious start to the day with a healthy twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Baked Banana Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Recipe uses simple, accessible ingredients that each play a vital role in bringing together the perfect flavor, texture, and color. From tender oats to sweet bananas and gooey chocolate chips, every element is essential to the magic of this breakfast dish.
- Old-fashioned rolled oats: Provide a hearty, chewy texture and act as the base to bind everything together.
- Baking powder: Helps the mixture rise slightly for a light, fluffy bite.
- Cinnamon: Adds warmth and a hint of spice that pairs beautifully with banana.
- Nutmeg: Offers a subtle nutty aroma to deepen the flavor complexity.
- Salt: Balances and enhances all the sweet and spicy elements.
- Ripe bananas: Bring natural sweetness and moisture, making the dish wonderfully tender.
- Milk (dairy or non-dairy): Creates a creamy custard-like texture that keeps the oats soft.
- Eggs: Work as a binder and add richness to the bake.
- Pure maple syrup: Infuses gentle sweetness with a hint of caramel.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors and adds a lovely aromatic touch.
- Chocolate chips: For bursts of melty, sweet creaminess in every bite.
How to Make Baked Banana Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, grease an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking dish using melted butter or a non-stick spray to ensure the oatmeal doesn’t stick. This step sets the stage for an easy release and perfect browning on the edges.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mixing these together first helps evenly distribute the leavening agent and spices so that each bite is flavorful and baked to perfection.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth—this is what brings natural sweetness and moisture to the recipe. Add in the milk, eggs, maple syrup, and vanilla extract, whisking everything to combine. This luscious mixture will turn those oats into a creamy, soft bake.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures and Add Chocolate Chips
Pour the wet banana mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients and gently stir to combine. Be careful not to overmix; just fold in the chocolate chips last to preserve their shape and amazing melty texture once baked.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the oat mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes. For a softer, more custardy texture, check it at 50 minutes, or leave it in a little longer for a firmer bake. The aroma filling the kitchen will be irresistible!
Step 6: Let It Rest
Once out of the oven, allow it to rest for about 5 to 10 minutes so it can set completely. This step ensures that when you slice into it, the oatmeal holds together nicely and every serving looks just as good as it tastes.
How to Serve Baked Banana Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans on top for a delightful crunch. A dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of extra maple syrup can add creaminess and extra sweetness. Fresh banana slices or a few more chocolate chips scattered on the warm oatmeal make the dish instantly more inviting and well-rounded.
Side Dishes
This baked oatmeal pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit salad or a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice to brighten the plate. For a more filling breakfast, serve it alongside scrambled eggs or crispy bacon for a savory contrast that keeps you energized through the morning.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the oatmeal in individual ramekins or mason jars for a charming presentation, perfect for brunch gatherings or meal preps. You can also layer the oatmeal with yogurt and granola in a tall glass to create a beautiful parfait that showcases all the layers and textures deliciously.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, store any leftover baked oatmeal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. This makes it perfect for quick breakfasts throughout the week without any hassle.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully. Cut the baked oatmeal into individual portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them into a resealable freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months, making your busy mornings just a little easier.
Reheating
Reheat individual servings in the microwave for about 60-90 seconds, or warm larger portions in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Add a little splash of milk if it’s dry and top with fresh fruit or nuts to revive all the flavors and moisture.
FAQs
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
While rolled oats give the best texture for this Baked Banana Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Recipe, you can substitute quick oats in a pinch. Keep in mind that quick oats will create a softer, less chewy texture.
Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?
Absolutely! Use your favorite non-dairy milk such as almond, oat, or soy milk to make this recipe completely dairy-free without compromising on creaminess and flavor.
How ripe should the bananas be?
For the most natural sweetness and optimal moisture, use very ripe bananas with plenty of brown spots. The riper, the better—this ensures your baked oatmeal is packed with flavor.
Can I add nuts or seeds inside the oatmeal?
Yes! Feel free to fold in chopped walnuts, pecans, or even chia seeds along with the chocolate chips for extra crunch, nutrition, and flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! The Baked Banana Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Recipe holds up well in the fridge and freezer, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. Just portion it out for grab-and-go mornings.
Final Thoughts
I hope you get as much joy from making and devouring this Baked Banana Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Recipe as I do. It’s truly one of those feel-good breakfasts that manages to be both indulgent and nourishing. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to a warm, chocolate-studded hug in a baking dish. Breakfast will never be the same again!
Print
Baked Banana Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Baked Banana Chocolate Chip Oatmeal is a warm, comforting breakfast perfect for a nutritious start to your day. Made with rolled oats, ripe bananas, and sweetened with pure maple syrup, it’s baked to golden perfection with melty chocolate chips scattered throughout. Easy to prepare and naturally gluten-free when using certified oats, this recipe serves 9 and can be enjoyed warm or cold.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2½ cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas
- 2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy alternatives like almond or oat milk)
- 2 eggs
- ¾ cup pure maple syrup
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Add-ins
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking dish with melted butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until evenly distributed.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Add the milk, eggs, pure maple syrup, and vanilla extract, then whisk together thoroughly.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the wet banana mixture into the bowl with the dry oat mixture. Stir until just combined to avoid overmixing, then gently fold in the chocolate chips.
- Transfer and Spread: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to ensure uniform baking.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. Bake closer to 50 minutes for a softer texture or up to 60 minutes for a firmer texture. The oatmeal is done when it is set and lightly golden on top.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes to set further before slicing and serving warm.
Notes
- Use ripe bananas for the best natural sweetness and flavor.
- You can substitute chocolate chips with nuts or dried fruits for variation.
- For a vegan version, use plant-based milk and replace eggs with flax eggs.
- This oatmeal can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days and reheated before serving.
- To make the dish gluten-free, confirm your oats are certified gluten-free.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
