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; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 cups almond milk (or any milk of your choice); 1/4 cup maple syrup (optional); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort on a Plate

I absolutely love starting my day with Banana Cinnamon Baked Oats! The aroma of cinnamon wafting through the kitchen is irresistible. This dish has become my go-to breakfast because it combines the comforting flavors of ripe bananas and warm spices, all in one bowl. It's not only hearty and filling, but the baked oats also provide a deliciously chewy texture that I can't get enough of. Plus, the best part is how quick and easy it is to prepare—perfect for busy mornings when I'm craving something wholesome.

Created by

Brianna Tate

Last updated on 2026-02-08T05:21:36.202Z

During one lazy weekend morning, I decided to experiment with some ingredients I had on hand, and that's when I came up with this Banana Cinnamon Baked Oats recipe. The combination of ripe bananas and cinnamon creates a cozy flavor that brings me back to my childhood. I learned that baking the oats creates a delightful texture and a warm, comforting dish that's perfect for breakfast or a midday snack.

What makes this recipe even better is its versatility. You can add nuts, dried fruits, or even chocolate chips, depending on what you fancy. I also love that I can prep this in advance, saving me precious time on busy mornings. Just reheat, and I'm ready to enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Nutty oats with natural sweetness from bananas
Warm cinnamon aroma that fills the kitchen
Wholesome and filling for a perfect start to the day

Ingredient Importance

Each ingredient in this Banana Cinnamon Baked Oats recipe plays a pivotal role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor. For instance, ripe bananas are not just a sweetener; they add moisture and creaminess, creating that delightful chewy texture when baked. Choosing the right oats is also crucial. Rolled oats provide the ideal base, cooking evenly and absorbing flavors without getting mushy. Instant oats, on the other hand, can lead to a gummy result, so stick with rolled for best results.

Ground cinnamon not only imparts a warm, comforting flavor but also boasts health benefits, such as antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. When combined with the natural sweetness of the bananas, it creates a harmonious balance that makes these baked oats truly irresistible. If you’re out of cinnamon, consider using nutmeg or pumpkin spice as an alternative for a similar warm flavor profile, keeping in mind these spices can be more potent, so adjust quantities accordingly.

Baking Tips

When baking the Banana Cinnamon Baked Oats, it's important to closely monitor the cooking time. Start checking around the 25-minute mark; the dish is done when the top is golden brown and the edges slightly pull away from the sides of the pan. If you're unsure, a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Overbaking can lead to a dryness that detracts from the overall enjoyment, so set a timer to avoid an overcooked result.

To enhance the flavor profile even further, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking. This will elevate the sweet notes of the bananas and maple syrup, creating a more complex taste experience. Additionally, you can layer your baked oats with fresh fruit or yogurt when serving for extra nutrition and a pop of color on the plate, making it not just a tasty dish but also visually appealing.

Serving and Storage

This Banana Cinnamon Baked Oats can be a delightful treat for breakfast or a nutritious snack throughout the day. I like to serve it warm, topped with fresh banana slices or a drizzle of extra maple syrup for those lazy weekend mornings. You could also pair it with a dollop of Greek yogurt or nut butter for added protein, making it a more balanced meal that keeps you fuller for longer.

If you find yourself with leftovers, they store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Just reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds, or until warmed through. For longer storage, consider freezing portions for quick breakfasts on the go; simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the morning for convenience without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your baked oats:

Ingredients

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

Once you have everything, you're ready to bake!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Banana Cinnamon Baked Oats:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, rolled oats, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir until well mixed.

Add Liquids

Pour in the almond milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is combined.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and sprinkle chopped nuts on top if using.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm!

Now you're ready to savor the deliciousness!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or some dried fruit to the mix.

Customization Options

One of the beauties of the Banana Cinnamon Baked Oats recipe is its versatility. You can customize it based on the ingredients you have or your dietary preferences. For a gluten-free version, simply use certified gluten-free oats. You can also experiment with different types of milk, such as oat or soy, depending on what you enjoy or need to accommodate dietary restrictions.

If you're in the mood for added flavor and texture, consider mixing in dried fruits like raisins or cranberries, or fresh berries into the batter. This not only enhances the taste but also adds a beautiful burst of color. You can also substitute the nuts with seeds, like pumpkin or sunflower seeds, to keep the dish nut-free while still providing that satisfying crunch.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable! If you're feeding a larger group, double or triple the recipe. Just ensure you use a larger baking dish to accommodate the increased volume. Remember that increasing the quantity may slightly affect baking time; check for doneness a few minutes earlier than the original recipe suggests to avoid overcooking.

Alternatively, if you want to make a smaller portion, you could halve the recipe and use a smaller baking dish. Baking times will also be shorter in this case, so keep an eye on the oats as they cook. This flexibility allows you to enjoy Banana Cinnamon Baked Oats whether it's just for you or for a fun brunch gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan if you use plant-based milk and avoid adding any non-vegan toppings.

→ How long will baked oats last in the refrigerator?

Baked oats can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

→ Can I freeze Banana Cinnamon Baked Oats?

Absolutely! You can freeze individual portions, and reheat them in the microwave when you're ready to eat.

→ Is there a substitute for bananas?

If you don't like bananas, you can experiment with applesauce or another fruit puree for sweetness.