Nothing feels as comforting on a cozy morning as a warm, nourishing bowl of baked oatmeal, especially when it’s packed with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and the satisfying crunch of nuts. This Banana Nut Baked Oatmeal Recipe is one of my absolute favorites because it strikes that perfect balance between hearty and delicious. It’s straightforward to make, uses wholesome ingredients you probably already have, and fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that promises a great start to your day. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, this recipe brings together the best flavors and textures in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we dive into mixing and baking, let me share how simple yet essential these ingredients are. Each one plays a special role, whether it’s the chewy oats for bulk, the sweet bananas for natural sugars, or the nuts for that delightful bite and richness.
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed: These bring natural sweetness and moisture, eliminating the need for excess sugar.
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats: The foundation of the dish, providing heartiness and a lovely chewy texture.
- 1 1/2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy): Adds creaminess and helps bind everything perfectly.
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans: For crunch, flavor depth, and a boost of healthy fats.
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey: A natural sweetener that complements the bananas beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Elevates the flavor with its warm, aromatic note.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a cozy, spicy warmth that pairs wonderfully with bananas and nuts.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Helps give a slight rise for a fluffy texture.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances out the sweetness.
- 1 egg (optional): Provides extra structure and richness, great if you prefer a firmer bake.
- 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional): A little burst of sweetness and chewy texture that can be customized.
How to Make Banana Nut Baked Oatmeal Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper to make removal easy and cleanup a breeze. Getting this step done early sets you up for smooth sailing as you go.
Step 2: Mash Those Bananas
In a large mixing bowl, mash your ripe bananas with a fork until smooth and creamy. Those natural fruit sugars and moisture will create the perfect base for your baked oatmeal.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
Add the milk, maple syrup or honey, vanilla extract, and if you’re using the egg, toss that in too. Give it a good stir to combine everything evenly. This mixture is what will soak into the oats and transform the texture.
Step 4: Mix Together the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix your oats along with the ground cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. This is where your oats get flavored and get ready to fluff up a bit in the oven.
Step 5: Bring Wet and Dry Together
Pour the dry mixture into the wet bowl and stir carefully until all the oats are coated and everything is well combined. This is the point where you’ll see the batter come together, thick but pliable.
Step 6: Fold in the Nuts and Dried Fruit
Time to add the chopped nuts and dried fruit if you’re going that route. Folding these in gently ensures they’re evenly distributed without squashing the texture.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and smooth it out evenly with a spatula. Pop it into your preheated oven for about 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top turns golden and firm, and a knife inserted in the middle comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Allow the baked oatmeal to cool for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. This rest time helps it set so you can cut perfect squares without it crumbling. Ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Banana Nut Baked Oatmeal Recipe
Garnishes
It’s fun to dress up your Banana Nut Baked Oatmeal Recipe with a few simple garnishes like a drizzle of extra maple syrup, a dollop of creamy yogurt, or even some fresh banana slices on top. These additions not only boost flavor but make your serving look extra inviting.
Side Dishes
For a well-rounded breakfast or brunch, pairing your baked oatmeal with a side of fresh fruit, a small green smoothie, or a cup of coffee creates a delightful balance. The hearty oats keep you full while the sides add freshness and brightness.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress guests or make your breakfast feel special? Try serving the oatmeal in individual ramekins with toppings layered attractively, or sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes and a pinch of cinnamon for a café-style experience. Get creative and make it your own!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare because it’s so tasty), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Your Banana Nut Baked Oatmeal Recipe will stay fresh for about 4 to 5 days, making it perfect for weekday breakfasts on the go.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze portions of this baked oatmeal! Cut it into squares and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen oatmeal squares can last up to 3 months, giving you a quick and healthy option anytime.
Reheating
Reheat your baked oatmeal in the microwave for about 1 to 2 minutes or until warmed through. If you prefer, a quick zap in the oven wrapped in foil can also restore that just-baked texture. Add your favorite topping fresh after reheating.
FAQs
Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned rolled oats?
While you can use quick oats, the texture will be softer and less chewy. Rolled oats hold up better during baking and give that pleasant bite we love in the Banana Nut Baked Oatmeal Recipe.
Is it necessary to add an egg?
The egg is optional and adds extra structure and richness. If you are vegan or prefer egg-free, the oatmeal will still bake nicely thanks to the mashed bananas and baking powder.
Can I substitute the nuts with seeds or other add-ins?
Absolutely! Pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, or even chopped dried fruit all make wonderful alternatives or additions to the nuts for variety and extra nutrition.
How ripe should the bananas be?
Really ripe bananas with brown spots are perfect because they’re sweeter and mash easily, ensuring your baked oatmeal is naturally sweet and moist.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just be sure to use certified gluten-free oats, and you’ll have a wholesome, gluten-free breakfast option that tastes fantastic.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never tried baked oatmeal before, the Banana Nut Baked Oatmeal Recipe is a perfect place to start. It’s easy to whip up, comforting in every bite, and endlessly customizable to suit your tastes and pantry. I can’t wait for you to make this recipe your own and enjoy it as much as I do. Here’s to many cozy mornings filled with warm, nutty goodness!
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Banana Nut Baked Oatmeal Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Banana Nut Baked Oatmeal is a warm, hearty, and wholesome breakfast option that combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with crunchy nuts and comforting rolled oats. Made with simple ingredients and baked to golden perfection, this dish is perfect for a nourishing start to your day or a cozy brunch treat.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 1/2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg (optional, for added structure)
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Add-ins
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (or your choice of nuts)
- 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease or line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth to provide natural sweetness and moisture.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the milk, maple syrup or honey, vanilla extract, and egg (if using) to the mashed bananas. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, ground cinnamon, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and spices.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the dry ingredients into the wet mixture and stir gently until just combined, ensuring all oats are coated.
- Add Nuts and Dried Fruit: Fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans along with raisins or dried cranberries if using, adding texture and natural sweetness.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly for uniform baking.
- Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top turns golden brown and the oatmeal is set. Test doneness by inserting a knife in the center; it should come out clean.
- Serve: Allow the baked oatmeal to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm, optionally drizzled with extra maple syrup or topped with yogurt.
Notes
- Using ripe bananas enhances sweetness and moisture without added sugar.
- Substitute milk with any plant-based milk to make it dairy-free.
- The egg is optional but helps the oatmeal hold its shape better.
- Adjust sweetness with maple syrup or honey based on preference.
- Add different nuts or dried fruits to customize flavors and textures.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheat before serving.
