If you’re craving a wholesome breakfast that feels like an indulgence but is truly wholesome, Banana Nut Baked Oatmeal is about to be your kitchen hero. Imagine ripe bananas, cozy cinnamon, sweet maple syrup, and crunchy walnuts mingling together in every golden-baked slice. This dish pulls together in minutes, smells like a breakfast bakery dream, and serves up nostalgia with every bite. Whether you’re after an easy weekday breakfast or a make-ahead brunch for the family, Banana Nut Baked Oatmeal is the go-to recipe you’ll return to again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Banana Nut Baked Oatmeal lies in its simplicity—every ingredient is there for a reason, adding flavor, body, or a touch of natural sweetness. Don’t overthink it; these kitchen staples work together to create breakfast magic.
- Bananas (2 ripe, mashed): Bananas are the star here, bringing natural sweetness and a rich, moist texture to every bite.
- Old-fashioned rolled oats (2 cups): Rolled oats form the hearty base, holding everything together while keeping things tender and satisfying.
- Chopped walnuts (1/2 cup): Walnuts offer a crave-worthy nutty crunch and bring healthy fats to the table.
- Maple syrup or honey (1/4 cup): This touch of liquid sweetener enhances the bananas while keeping things gently sweet, not sugary.
- Milk (1/2 cup, dairy or non-dairy): Milk adds moisture and makes the oatmeal creamy—any kind works here, so pick your favorite.
- Large eggs (2): Eggs help bind everything together, creating perfect, sliceable squares.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): A hint of vanilla enhances all the cozy flavors without overpowering them.
- Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Just a bit lifts the oatmeal, keeping it fluffy rather than dense.
- Ground cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): Cinnamon adds warmth and a classic touch to every bite.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Just enough to bring the flavors into perfect balance.
- Melted coconut oil or butter (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps create that gorgeous golden top.
- Extra banana slices & chopped nuts (optional for topping): These make for a beautiful presentation and a little extra texture.
How to Make Banana Nut Baked Oatmeal
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Preheat
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with a drizzle of your melted coconut oil, a swipe of butter, or a quick spritz of nonstick spray. This simple step makes cleanup easy and ensures your Banana Nut Baked Oatmeal slices come out effortlessly every time.
Step 2: Mash the Bananas
In a large mixing bowl, use a fork or potato masher to thoroughly mash the ripe bananas. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your oatmeal will be. Expect a lumpy, pudding-like base—don’t worry, it only gets better from here!
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
To the mashed bananas, add the eggs, milk, maple syrup (or honey), melted coconut oil (or butter), and vanilla extract. Whisk everything together until it’s completely smooth and well-blended. This is where the comfort and flavor of Banana Nut Baked Oatmeal really start to come together.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
Stir in the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. No need for a mixer; a simple spoon or spatula will do perfectly. Fold in the chopped walnuts gently, making sure they’re evenly distributed for a nutty crunch in every bite.
Step 5: Assemble and Top
Pour the oatmeal mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. For an extra-special touch, arrange banana slices and a sprinkle of nuts over the top. It adds inviting color and a little added crunch after baking.
Step 6: Bake
Slide the dish into the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes—until the center is just set and the top is golden brown. Your kitchen will start to fill with the irresistible aroma of baking bananas and cinnamon. Once baked, let it cool for 5 to 10 minutes so the slices hold together beautifully when you serve.
How to Serve Banana Nut Baked Oatmeal
Garnishes
This breakfast shines with a few simple garnishes. Try topping each warm square with extra banana slices, chopped walnuts, or a drizzle of maple syrup for a truly eye-catching and delicious presentation.
Side Dishes
Pair your Banana Nut Baked Oatmeal with tangy Greek yogurt, a juicy fruit salad, or a piping hot cup of coffee or tea. It balances beautifully with fresh flavors and something creamy on the side.
Creative Ways to Present
For brunch parties, cut your baked oatmeal into mini squares and serve on a platter with cute little forks. Or go wholesome-chic: stack slices in bowls, top with vanilla yogurt and a handful of berries, and let guests build their own cozy breakfast bowls.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Banana Nut Baked Oatmeal is a lifesaver for busy weeks! Store cooled slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. It stays moist and delicious, so you can grab a square whenever hunger strikes.
Freezing
You can easily make a double batch and freeze individual portions for those extra hectic mornings. Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, place in a freezer-safe bag or container, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, simply pop a slice in the microwave for 30–45 seconds, or warm a tray of squares in a 350°F oven for 10–12 minutes. Add a splash of milk after reheating for ultimate coziness, if you like.
FAQs
Can I make Banana Nut Baked Oatmeal vegan?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the eggs with flax eggs and use your favorite plant-based milk. The texture and flavor stay just as comforting and delicious.
Can I add extras like chocolate chips or dried fruit?
Yes! For a little variety, fold in a handful of chocolate chips, raisins, dried cranberries, or even shredded coconut before baking. This versatile recipe really encourages creativity.
What’s the best way to ripen bananas quickly?
If your bananas aren’t quite ready, pop them in a warm oven (about 250°F) for 10–15 minutes until the skins darken and the fruit softens. You’ll get perfectly mashable bananas in a flash.
Is it possible to double this recipe for a crowd?
For sure—just double all the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch dish. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the bake time, so be sure to check the center for doneness.
Does Banana Nut Baked Oatmeal work for meal prep?
It’s fantastic for meal prep! Make a pan at the start of the week, slice it up, and enjoy a nourishing, homemade breakfast (or snack) each day with almost zero effort.
Final Thoughts
This comforting Banana Nut Baked Oatmeal recipe is one I come back to time and again—it’s easy, deeply satisfying, and always gets rave reviews. Give it a try and make it your own with your favorite little twists. I can’t wait to hear how you enjoy it!
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Banana Nut Baked Oatmeal Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Banana Nut Baked Oatmeal is a delicious and wholesome breakfast option that can be prepared ahead of time. It features ripe bananas, hearty oats, crunchy walnuts, and warm spices, baked to perfection for a comforting morning treat.
Ingredients
Ripe Bananas:
- 2 ripe bananas (mashed)
Oat Mixture:
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil or butter
Topping:
- Extra banana slices and chopped nuts for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the Mixture: In a large bowl, mash the bananas and whisk in eggs, milk, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Stir in oats, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and fold in chopped walnuts.
- Bake: Pour the mixture into the baking dish, top with extra banana slices and nuts if desired, and bake for 35–40 minutes until set and golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Let it cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or oven.
- For a vegan version, use flax eggs and plant-based milk.
- Add chocolate chips or dried fruit for variation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 140mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 47mg
