Banana Bread Baked Oats Recipe
If you’re looking for a cozy breakfast or snack that feels indulgent without the guilt, this Banana Bread Baked Oats Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Imagine all the comforting flavors of classic banana bread transformed into a warm, fluffy baked oat that’s easy to whip up and absolutely bursting with cinnamon and banana goodness. It’s perfect for those mornings when you want something hearty yet nourishing, with just a touch of sweet chocolate chips to make it extra special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients for this recipe are simple, wholesome, and ready to come together into a dish you’ll crave. Each has a purpose—old-fashioned oats provide a satisfying chew, ripe banana brings natural sweetness and moisture, and the hint of cinnamon adds a cozy warmth that ties everything together.
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats: Provides a hearty and chewy base that’s packed with fiber.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the oats rise and become fluffy during baking.
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a sweet, aromatic depth to the batter.
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon: Brings a cozy warmth and classic banana bread flavor.
- ⅛ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- ¼ cup mini chocolate chips: A fun and melty surprise that complements the banana beautifully.
- 1 overripe banana: The star ingredient that adds natural sweetness, moisture, and banana essence.
- 2 eggs: Binds the ingredients and adds protein for a more filling dish.
- ½ cup unsweetened almond milk or milk of your choice: Keeps the batter smooth and creamy while accommodating different dietary preferences.
- 2 tablespoons honey or sweetener of choice: Adds just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the banana flavor.
How to Make Banana Bread Baked Oats Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This sets the right temperature to achieve perfectly baked, golden brown oats with a slightly puffed texture that feels just like fresh banana bread.
Step 2: Blend the Ingredients
In a high-speed blender, combine the oats, baking powder, vanilla extract, cinnamon, salt, overripe banana, eggs, almond milk, and honey. Blend until smooth and creamy; this transformation is where the magic happens, turning those simple ingredients into a luscious batter bursting with flavor.
Step 3: Incorporate the Chocolate Chips
Once your batter is smooth, gently fold in the mini chocolate chips. These little morsels will melt slightly during baking, adding delightful bursts of sweetness throughout your baked oats.
Step 4: Divide and Bake
Evenly divide the batter into four individual ramekins or oven-safe dishes. This portioning ensures that everyone gets a perfectly sized serving. Pop them in the oven and bake for about 25 minutes until the tops are golden brown and puffed – a clear sign your baked oats are ready to enjoy.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Let your banana bread baked oats cool for at least five minutes. This resting time helps the oats set nicely and makes it easier to dig in without burning your tongue. Serve warm or at room temperature for the ultimate comfort food experience.
How to Serve Banana Bread Baked Oats Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your banana bread baked oats, sprinkle some crushed walnuts or pecans on top for an added crunch. A dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of extra honey can also bring creaminess and a touch of tang that perfectly balances the sweetness.
Side Dishes
This baked oats recipe pairs wonderfully with fresh berries or a simple fruit salad. For a savory twist, a side of crispy bacon or sausage rounds out the meal beautifully, mixing savory and sweet flavors that delight the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your banana bread baked oats in cute mason jars or mini ceramic ramekins for a charming presentation. Top with a sprig of mint or a dusting of powdered cinnamon to make it extra inviting when guests come over or for a lovely Instagram-worthy breakfast spread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover banana bread baked oats in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep nicely for up to three days without losing their delicious flavors or texture, making for easy grab-and-go breakfasts.
Freezing
If you want to keep these baked oats longer, you can freeze individual portions. Wrap each ramekin tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil or transfer the oats to freezer-safe containers, freezing for up to two months. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your baked oats in the microwave for 30 to 60 seconds or until warm. If you prefer, pop them in the oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes for a freshly baked texture. Both methods bring the cozy banana bread vibes right back to life.
FAQs
Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned rolled oats?
While quick oats could work in a pinch, old-fashioned rolled oats provide the best texture and absorb moisture better, resulting in a more satisfying, chewy baked oat.
What if I don’t have a high-speed blender?
You can mix the ingredients in a bowl using a hand mixer or even by hand, although the batter might be a bit chunkier. Just be sure the banana is mashed well before combining everything.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Substitute the eggs with flax eggs or chia eggs, and use a plant-based milk along with maple syrup or agave instead of honey for a completely vegan version.
Is it possible to add nuts or seeds to this recipe?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or chia seeds add a lovely texture and boost of nutrition. Just fold them in along with the chocolate chips.
How ripe should the banana be?
The riper, the better. Overripe bananas with lots of brown spots are perfect because they bring maximum sweetness and moisture to your baked oats.
Final Thoughts
This Banana Bread Baked Oats Recipe is a beautiful way to enjoy the flavors of classic banana bread with the wholesome goodness of oats. Whether you’re fueling up for a busy day or treating yourself to a cozy weekend breakfast, these baked oats offer warmth, comfort, and pure deliciousness in every bite. Give it a try—you’ll wonder how you ever started your day without it!
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Banana Bread Baked Oats Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Banana Bread Baked Oats recipe is a delightful and wholesome breakfast treat, combining the classic flavors of banana bread with the hearty goodness of oats. Easy to make with simple ingredients and baked to a golden perfection, these baked oats are perfect for a nutritious start to your day or a cozy snack.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 overripe banana
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup unsweetened almond milk or milk of choice
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons honey or sweetener of choice
Add-ins
- ¼ cup mini chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the oats evenly and thoroughly.
- Blend ingredients: In a high-speed blender, combine the oats, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, banana, eggs, almond milk, vanilla extract, and honey. Blend until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Prepare ramekins: Evenly divide the batter among four ramekins, then sprinkle and fold in the mini chocolate chips to distribute them throughout the batter.
- Bake: Place the ramekins in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes until the baked oats are puffed up and golden brown on top.
- Cool and serve: Allow the baked oats to cool for at least five minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Notes
- Use overripe bananas for enhanced sweetness and moisture.
- Feel free to substitute honey with maple syrup or any preferred sweetener.
- For a dairy-free option, almond milk or any plant-based milk works well.
- You can add nuts or seeds for extra texture and nutrients.
- Ensure not to overblend if you prefer a bit of oat texture in your baked oats.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
