Banana Cinnamon Baked Oats

Name: Banana Cinnamon Baked Oats
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 2 cups rolled oats; 2 cups almond milk (or milk of choice); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional); Honey or maple syrup for drizzling (optional)

Highlighted under: Home Healthy Meals Ideas

I absolutely love starting my day with a hearty bowl of Banana Cinnamon Baked Oats. This warm, comforting dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. With ripe bananas, fragrant cinnamon, and wholesome oats, every bite feels like a warm hug. Whether it's a busy weekday morning or a cozy weekend brunch, this recipe has become a favorite in my kitchen. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to use up leftover bananas, making it both tasty and resourceful!

Created by

Dorothy Finch

Last updated on 2026-02-08T04:01:36.340Z

Whenever I bake these Banana Cinnamon Baked Oats, the aroma fills my kitchen and instantly brightens my day. I remember the first time I made them; I was looking for a nutritious breakfast option that didn’t compromise on flavor. The combination of sweet bananas and warm cinnamon proved to be the perfect morning pick-me-up!

To ensure that my oats are perfectly baked, I always let the mixture sit for a few minutes before popping it in the oven. This allows the oats to soak up the milk and flavors, creating a creamy texture that makes this dish irresistibly delicious. Trust me, your mornings will never be the same!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and filling, perfect for breakfast or snack.
Natural sweetness from ripe bananas without added sugars.
Customizable with nuts, seeds, or a dollop of yogurt.

The Role of Bananas in this Recipe

The ripe bananas in this recipe serve as a natural sweetener, eliminating the need for additional sugars. Their natural sugars start caramelizing during baking, resulting in a delightful flavor that enhances the entire dish. I recommend using bananas that are speckled with brown spots; they are typically the sweetest and softest, giving you the best texture and flavor in your baked oats.

In addition to adding sweetness, mashed bananas contribute moisture to the dish. They bind the ingredients together and help create a soft, pudding-like center. Be sure to mash them well until they are free of lumps, as this will ensure that the bananas distribute evenly throughout the oats, creating a cohesive texture.

Customizing Your Baked Oats

One of the best aspects of Banana Cinnamon Baked Oats is its versatility. Feel free to customize the dish by adding various mix-ins. Chopped walnuts or pecans introduce a satisfying crunch and healthy fats, while adding chia seeds boosts the nutritional profile with fiber and omega-3s. Incorporating fruit such as blueberries or apples can also provide a fresh burst of flavor and color.

If you're looking to enhance the cinnamon flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of cardamom for a lovely aromatic twist. You can also experiment with different types of milk, such as oat milk or coconut milk, to adjust the creaminess and flavor to your liking.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Banana Cinnamon Baked Oats recipe is perfect for meal prepping. You can store the cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To reheat, simply warm individual portions in the microwave for about 30 to 45 seconds, or until heated through. I recommend adding a splash of milk to enhance creaminess when reheating.

For longer storage, you can freeze the baked oats. Cut them into squares, wrap each piece in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored like this for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating, or you can reheat them directly from frozen; just increase your microwave time by a few seconds.

Ingredients

For Banana Cinnamon Baked Oats

2 ripe bananas, mashed
2 cups rolled oats
2 cups almond milk (or milk of choice)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Honey or maple syrup for drizzling (optional)

Instructions

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8x8 inch baking dish.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, almond milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Stir in the rolled oats, baking powder, and salt until well mixed. If using nuts, fold them in.

Pour and Bake

Pour the oat mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and set.

Serve

Allow to cool for a few minutes, then cut into squares. Drizzle with honey or maple syrup if desired, and enjoy warm!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or some chocolate chips to the mixture before baking.

Tips for Baking Success

To ensure a perfectly baked product, keep an eye on the timer and check for doneness at around 25 minutes. The top should be golden brown and firm to the touch. If you find it browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while allowing the inside to bake fully.

Using a well-greased baking dish is essential for easy removal. I prefer using a non-stick spray or coating the dish with a thin layer of coconut oil to help the baked oats slide out effortlessly. A glass or ceramic baking dish can also help retain heat evenly, promoting uniform cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Banana Cinnamon Baked Oats can be served warm or at room temperature, depending on your preference. For an extra indulgent treat, consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt on top for creaminess and protein. Fresh fruit, such as slices of banana or berries, can enhance the presentation and flavor when served.

For those who enjoy a little crunch, a sprinkle of granola or additional nuts on top can provide texture contrast. Drizzling with honey or maple syrup elevates the flavor profile and adds a delightful sweetness that truly makes this dish shine.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free rolled oats, and you can enjoy this recipe without the gluten.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Leftover baked oats can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the microwave before serving.

→ Can I use milk alternatives?

Absolutely! Any milk alternative, such as coconut milk or soy milk, will work perfectly in this recipe.

→ Is it possible to freeze baked oats?

Yes! You can freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.