Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal
There’s something truly special about mornings when the aroma of freshly baked goods fills the air. That’s exactly what I felt the first time I made Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal. It was a chilly morning, and I had a couple of overripe bananas staring at me, begging to be turned into something delicious. As I mixed the ingredients, I could almost taste the warm, comforting flavors coming together. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl.
As I baked it, the smell wafted through my kitchen, drawing my family in like moths to a flame. The anticipation was palpable. When I pulled that golden-brown pan out of the oven, I knew I had created something magical. Each slice was a perfect harmony of sweet banana, hearty oats, and a hint of cinnamon. It quickly became a staple in our breakfast rotation, and I’m excited to share it with you!
What I love about Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal is its versatility. Whether you enjoy it warm on a cozy morning or at room temperature as a quick snack, it’s perfect for any occasion. It’s not just a dish; it’s a memory-maker. I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your mornings as it has to mine!
Recipe Snapshot
38 mins
10 mins
28 mins
Easy
180 kcal
5 g
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
7 g
8×8-inch Baking Pan, Storage Containers
The Magic of This Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal
It’s a Healthy Start
What I adore about Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal is how it combines indulgence with nutrition. Packed with whole grains from rolled oats and the natural sweetness from bananas, it’s a wholesome breakfast choice that will keep you satisfied until lunch.
Make-Ahead Magic
One of the best things about this recipe is that you can make it ahead of time! I often whip up a batch on Sunday, so we have breakfast ready for busy weekdays. Just slice and store it in the fridge. Simply warm it up in the morning, and you’re good to go!
Customizable Goodness
This recipe is incredibly flexible. Want to add some chopped walnuts for crunch? Go for it! Prefer chocolate chips? That works too! You can even toss in some shredded coconut if you’re feeling adventurous. The possibilities are endless, making it a fun recipe to adapt to your tastes.
Family-Friendly Fun
Kids love this dish! It’s a fantastic way to sneak in those fruits and nuts without them even noticing. I often involve my kids in the process, letting them mash the bananas or mix the ingredients. It turns breakfast into a fun family activity, creating lasting memories and delicious results.
Seasonal Sensation
While Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal is great year-round, I find it particularly delightful in the fall. The warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg evoke the comforting feelings of autumn. It’s perfect for cozy weekends spent with loved ones, making it a seasonal favorite.
Perfect for Meal Prep
In our busy lives, meal prep is essential, and this recipe allows you to do just that. Bake a large batch, cut it into squares, and you’ve got breakfast ready to go for the week. It’s a lifesaver on those hectic mornings.
What You’ll Need for Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal

To create a delicious batch of Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal, you’ll want to gather some simple ingredients that work harmoniously together. The star, of course, is the banana, which provides natural sweetness and moisture. The rolled oats serve as the healthy base, while the eggs add richness and help bind everything together. Each element contributes to the delightful flavor and texture, making this dish a balanced breakfast option.
- 2 cups rolled oats – The foundation of this dish, providing hearty texture and nutrition.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon – Adds a warm flavor that complements the banana.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps the oatmeal rise, creating a lovely texture.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
- 1 cup mashed banana (very ripe; from about 2 large) – Provides natural sweetness and moisture.
- 3 large eggs – Binds the mixture and adds richness.
- ½ cup milk – Adds creaminess; you can use any type of milk you prefer.
- ¼ cup maple syrup – Enhances the natural sweetness and adds depth of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla – For a touch of aromatic sweetness.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted and cooled slightly) – Adds richness and flavor.
- ½ cup chopped walnuts, shredded coconut, or chocolate chips (optional) – For added texture and flavor.
Directions for Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal

Making Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal is easy and rewarding. Follow these steps to create this delicious dish. Trust me, it’s worth every minute in the kitchen!
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F and grease an 8×8-inch baking pan. This step is crucial to ensure your oatmeal doesn’t stick and comes out easily.
- Optionally, you can take a quick moment to pulse the rolled oats in a blender or food processor before starting the recipe. This creates a slightly finer texture, resulting in a baked oatmeal that holds together beautifully.
- In a large mixing bowl, stir together all the ingredients – the mashed bananas, eggs, milk, maple syrup, vanilla, butter, and the dry ingredients (oats, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt). Mix it well until everything is combined.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan, using a spatula to smooth the top for even cooking.
- Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 28 to 30 minutes. Look for a golden brown top and a clean cake tester inserted into the center.
- Once done, remove it from the oven and place the pan on a wire rack. Let it cool completely in the pan to hold its shape better when cutting.
- Once cooled, slice the baked oatmeal into squares. You may serve it at room temperature, chilled, or warmed up, as you prefer.
- If desired, top your slice with additional walnuts, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra touch.
- Enjoy your delicious Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal as a filling breakfast or snack throughout the week!
Things Worth Knowing
- Texture matters: When mixing the ingredients, be mindful of the consistency. You want it to be well combined but not overmixed.
- Ripeness of bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter your baked oatmeal will be. Look for ones with plenty of brown spots.
- Baking time: If you decide to add chocolate chips or nuts, you may need to adjust the baking time slightly.
- Cooling period: Allowing the dish to cool completely is crucial for easy slicing; it also enhances the flavors.
Tips and Variations

While Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal is fantastic as is, here are some tips and variations to make it even more delightful:
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. It can also be stored at room temperature for 3 days.
- Freezing: This recipe freezes well. Slice and place in a freezer-safe container; it can last for up to 3 months.
- Pairing: Serve with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh fruits for a refreshing touch.
- Egg-free option: If you want to make it egg-free, simply omit the eggs and increase the milk to ¾ cup. Let 3 tablespoons of chia seeds soak in the milk before adding it to the batter.
- Gluten-free option: Ensure to use certified gluten-free oats for a safe gluten-free version.
- Dairy-free option: Substitute the butter with coconut oil and use nondairy milk for a creamy texture.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal, the options are endless. Here’s how I love to share this delightful dish:
- Breakfast: Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup and a sprinkle of cinnamon to enhance its delicious flavor.
- Brunch: It makes for a fantastic brunch item. Pair it with fresh fruits and a cup of coffee for a satisfying meal.
- Dessert: Enjoy it as a sweet treat after dinner. You can even warm it up and add a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
- Snack: Perfect for a quick snack on the go. Slice it into portable squares that are easy to grab.
- Seasonal Touch: In the fall, serve it with roasted apples or pears for a seasonal twist.
- Meal Prep: Ideal for meal prepping; make a large batch and enjoy it throughout the week, saving time and effort in the mornings.
FAQ
Conclusion
In summary, Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal is a fantastic way to enjoy breakfast that’s both delicious and nutritious. With its warm flavors and easy preparation, it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Give this recipe a try and watch it become a beloved favorite for you and your family!
So why wait? Whip up a batch today and savor the comforting taste of Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal for yourself!

Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal
Equipment
- 8x8-inch Baking Pan
- Storage Containers
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup mashed banana very ripe; from about 2 large
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- ¼ cup unsalted butter melted and cooled slightly
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or shredded coconut or chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F and grease an 8×8-inch baking pan.
- Optionally, you can briefly pulse the rolled oats in a blender or food processor before starting the recipe to make them a slightly finer texture.
- Stir all ingredients together in a large mixing bowl.
- Pour into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 28 to 30 minutes or until a cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Place the pan onto a wire rack and let cool completely before cutting.
Notes
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or at room temperature for 3 days.
- Egg-free: Omit the eggs and increase the milk to ¾ cup.
- Gluten-free: Use certified gluten-free oats.
- Dairy-free: Use coconut oil instead of butter and nondairy milk.
