Description
This Healthy Banana Baked Oatmeal recipe is a comforting and nutritious breakfast option that combines rolled oats, ripe bananas, warm spices, and a touch of maple syrup. Perfectly baked to a golden brown, this dish offers a hearty, naturally sweet start to your day that’s easy to prepare and customizable with your preferred milk and optional nuts for added texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups (180g) rolled oats, regular or quick-cooking
- 1/2 cup (65g) pecan pieces (optional)
- 1 1/2 teaspoon (5g) baking powder
- 2 1/2 teaspoons (4.5g) cinnamon
- 2 1/2 teaspoons (1.5g) allspice
- 2 1/2 teaspoons (3g) kosher salt
Wet Ingredients
- 3/4 cup (180g) mashed banana (about 2 very ripe bananas)
- 1 3/4 cups (420ml) milk of choice (dairy, almond, or oat)
- 1/4 cup (60ml) pure maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prep & Mix Ingredients: Start by mixing all your dry ingredients in a bowl until they are well blended, releasing a nutty aroma from the oats and spices. This ensures even baking without clumps. Be careful not to overmix once you add wet ingredients.
- Combine Banana & Mixture: Gently fold the mashed bananas into the dry mix until everything is moistened and forms a hearty batter. The natural sweetness and moisture from the bananas should give it a cohesive but not too thin consistency.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the oatmeal mixture into a greased baking dish and spread it evenly with a spatula to ensure consistent cooking and an even texture throughout.
- Bake Until Golden: Bake the mixture in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 40 minutes, or until the top is golden and cooked through. Monitor to avoid drying out, aiming for a nicely browned crust.
- Cool & Enjoy: Once baked, allow the oatmeal to cool for a few minutes to let the texture set, making it easier to serve and enhancing the blend of flavors.
Notes
- You can substitute pecans with walnuts or omit nuts entirely for a nut-free version.
- Use any milk of your choice such as dairy, almond, or oat milk to suit dietary preferences.
- Adjust cinnamon and allspice amounts to taste for a milder or stronger spice flavor.
- For a sweeter oatmeal, increase maple syrup slightly, but bananas already add natural sweetness.
- The baking dish should be greased well to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Allow cooling to avoid the oatmeal being too soft or mushy when served.
