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Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with butter, oil, or cooking spray to prevent the oatmeal from sticking. You can also line the pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Mash the Bananas
Peel the ripe bananas and mash them with a fork or potato masher in a large mixing bowl until smooth. Bananas that are ripe (with spots) will work best for this recipe because they provide the natural sweetness you need.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
To the mashed bananas, add milk, eggs, maple syrup (if using), and vanilla extract. Whisk everything together until it’s well combined.
Step 4: Add the Dry Ingredients
Next, stir in the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix well to ensure the oats are fully incorporated into the wet ingredients.
Step 5: Optional Add-ins
If you’re using any chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit, fold them into the oatmeal mixture. These add-ins provide extra flavor and texture, making the baked oatmeal even more delicious.
Step 6: Pour and Bake
Pour the oatmeal mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the oatmeal is set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Let the baked oatmeal cool for a few minutes before slicing it into squares or rectangles. Serve warm with an extra drizzle of honey or maple syrup, and maybe a dollop of yogurt or a handful of fresh fruit if you like.
Tips for Perfect Baked Oatmeal
- Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and creamier your oatmeal will be. If your bananas are too ripe to eat on their own, this is the perfect way to use them up!
- Make It Dairy-Free: This recipe works great with any non-dairy milk, such as almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk, making it perfect for those who are lactose intolerant or following a vegan diet.
- Customize the Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter oatmeal, feel free to add more maple syrup, honey, or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top before baking.
- Meal Prep: Baked oatmeal stores well in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. Simply reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick breakfast on busy mornings.
- Freezer-Friendly: For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions of baked oatmeal. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container, and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave when ready to eat.
Why You’ll Love Baked Oatmeal with Bananas
- Quick and Easy: The prep time is minimal, and once it’s in the oven, you can focus on other things while it bakes.
- Nutritious: It’s a balanced breakfast that gives you a good amount of fiber, healthy fats, and protein, ensuring you stay full for longer.
- Versatile: You can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste—add your favorite nuts, fruits, or spices, or even swap out the bananas for other fruits like berries, apples, or peaches.
Conclusion
Baked oatmeal with bananas is a perfect blend of comfort and nutrition. It’s easy to make, customizable, and guaranteed to be a hit with the whole family. Whether you’re looking for a cozy breakfast for the weekend or a make-ahead meal for busy mornings, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household.
So, gather your ingredients, whip up a batch of this wholesome breakfast, and enjoy the delicious aroma as it bakes. Your mornings will never be the same!
Happy baking!
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