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 cups rolled oats; 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 cups milk (dairy or plant-based); 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional); 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Highlighted under: Baked Perfection

I absolutely love starting my day with a warm, hearty breakfast, and these Banana Cinnamon Baked Oats have become my go-to recipe. The combination of ripe bananas, cinnamon, and oats creates a comforting dish that's packed with flavor and nutrients. I appreciate that it's easy to make, can be prepared in advance, and is perfect for busy mornings. Plus, the delightful aroma of cinnamon wafting through my kitchen always puts a smile on my face. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll want to make it a regular part of your breakfast routine!

Created by

Maribel Hayes

Last updated on 2026-02-08T01:00:38.756Z

When I first tried making baked oats, I was blown away by how simple yet satisfying the dish was. I experimented with different flavors, but the winning combination of banana and cinnamon stole my heart. The bananas provide natural sweetness and moisture, while the cinnamon adds that warm, cozy spice that elevates the dish. I learned that letting the oats soak a bit helps them absorb extra flavor and results in a better texture.

One trick I've picked up is to sprinkle a few walnut pieces on top before baking. They not only add a delightful crunch but also enhance the overall nutty flavor of the oats. It’s a great way to customize the recipe to my taste while adding a nutritious boost. These baked oats have quickly become a beloved staple in my home, and I can't wait for you to enjoy them too!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Deliciously sweet and warming flavor from ripe bananas and cinnamon
Nutritious and filling, perfect for a wholesome breakfast
Easily customizable with your favorite toppings or mix-ins

Baking Tips for Perfect Oats

To achieve the perfect texture in your Banana Cinnamon Baked Oats, ensure that you mash the bananas well. This not only incorporates their natural sweetness evenly throughout the mixture but also helps with binding the oats together during baking. If you prefer a smoother consistency, you might use a blender for the wet ingredients, creating a more uniform mixture that bakes beautifully.

When it comes to the baking dish, a glass or ceramic dish is ideal because it evenly distributes heat, preventing the edges from burning while the center remains undercooked. You can also test for doneness by gently shaking the dish. If the center has a slight jiggle but the edges are set and golden, your baked oats are perfectly done.

Customizing Your Baked Oats

One of the joys of this recipe is how easily it can be customized. Consider adding in your favorite fruits such as blueberries, diced apples, or even a handful of dark chocolate chips for a sweet touch. Each addition will alter the flavor profile slightly, allowing you to enjoy a different take on the dish each time you make it.

For those who are watching their sugar intake, you can skip the maple syrup altogether if your bananas are sufficiently ripe. They provide enough natural sweetness, and you won’t sacrifice flavor. Additionally, feel free to swap out the walnuts with any other nuts or seeds like almonds or chia seeds to add your preferred crunch.

Ingredients

For the Baked Oats

2 cups rolled oats
2 ripe bananas, mashed
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups milk (dairy or plant-based)
1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste, and don't hesitate to experiment with different fruit or nut combinations!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.

Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the mashed bananas, milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Combine Ingredients

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well combined. If using, fold in the chopped walnuts.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it evenly.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and set.

Serve and Enjoy

Let it cool slightly before slicing and serving. Enjoy warm, topped with additional banana slices or a drizzle of honey!

This dish is best enjoyed warm, and it can also be stored in the refrigerator for quick breakfasts throughout the week. Just reheat in the microwave!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a scoop of peanut butter or some dark chocolate chips on top before baking.

Make-Ahead and Storage

These Banana Cinnamon Baked Oats are perfect for meal prep; you can make a batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy them for quick breakfasts. Once baked, allow them to cool completely, then slice into portions and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to five days.

If you want to freeze your baked oats, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, simply microwave for about 1-2 minutes or until heated through.

Serving Suggestions

Serving your Banana Cinnamon Baked Oats can be as simple or elaborate as you like. For a delightful breakfast bowl, top with fresh banana slices, a sprinkle of extra cinnamon, and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup. Adding a dollop of yogurt can also introduce creaminess and a tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the oats.

For a hearty brunch option, consider pairing the baked oats with a side of scrambled eggs and fresh fruit. This not only adds protein but also complements the earthy flavors of the baked oats beautifully. It's a quick way to elevate your breakfast spread with minimal effort!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these baked oats ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture the night before and refrigerate it. Just bake it in the morning!

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use certified gluten-free rolled oats to make this dish gluten-free.

→ Can I substitute the bananas?

If you're not a fan of bananas, you can try using applesauce or pureed pumpkin as a sweetener.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave before serving.