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
Scale
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.
