If you’re searching for a breakfast that feels like a warm hug and fills your kitchen with the dreamy scent of baked bananas and cinnamon, look no further than Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal. This hearty, comforting dish brings all the nostalgic flavors of banana bread into an easy, nourishing baked oatmeal, making it perfect for cozy mornings or meal prep for a busy week ahead.

Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe serves a real purpose, from lending flavor to bringing that signature banana bread moistness and warmth. You don’t need much to create pure breakfast magic—just pantry staples (and a couple ripe bananas!) come together for a dish that feels extra special.

Rolled oats: These form the hearty base, giving the dish its chewy texture and wholesome substance.
Baking powder: Helps lift the oatmeal slightly, making it light and pleasantly cake-like.
Cinnamon: Adds cozy warmth and that unmistakable banana bread aroma.
Nutmeg: Provides a subtle spicy note that elevates the flavor complexity.
Salt: Just a pinch balances all the sweetness and wakes up the flavors.
Mashed banana: The star ingredient, binding everything together while sweetening naturally.
Eggs: Act as a binder and give the bake structure, so you can slice perfect pieces.
Unsweetened almond milk: Makes the oatmeal creamy without overpowering the flavors, but feel free to use any milk you like.
Maple syrup: A touch of natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with bananas.
Vanilla: Rounds out the flavor, bringing that classic bakery-style finish.
Chopped walnuts, chocolate chips, banana coins (optional): Folding in a handful of walnuts or chocolate chips adds delightful texture and indulgence—banana coins create pretty pops of banana throughout!

How to Make Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan nicely with nonstick spray, so your Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal will pop out with ease. For extra insurance (and no sticking!), line the bottom with a square of parchment paper—you’ll thank yourself at clean-up time.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a small bowl, combine your rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. I find that mixing the dry ingredients first guarantees all those spices are distributed evenly, so every bite is perfectly flavored.

Step 3: Prepare Banana Mixture

Grab your largest mixing bowl and go to town mashing the bananas until totally smooth—a few tiny lumps are just fine. This is what gives Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal its signature moist and tender crumb.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Crack in your eggs and give the mixture a good whisk until everything is cohesive. Then stir in the almond milk, maple syrup, and vanilla. This is where the magic starts as everything melds together and smells like pure happiness.

Step 5: Combine and Add Extras

Pour the dry oat mixture into the banana mixture, stirring until just combined. Now’s your moment to fold in any extras—crunchy walnuts, melty chocolate chips, or elegant banana coins for a pretty finishing touch.

Step 6: Bake

Transfer the mixture to your prepared pan, spreading it into an even layer. Pop it into the oven and bake for 40–45 minutes until golden brown on top and set in the center. The aroma will make it tough to wait, but it’ll be worth it!

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Let your Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal cool a bit before slicing. This helps it hold together beautifully when you dish it up—plus, it allows the flavors to settle in. Enjoy while just warm or even at room temperature!

How to Serve Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal

Garnishes

The finishing touches take this dish from everyday breakfast to something truly special. Try a dollop of creamy Greek yogurt, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for crunch. Banana slices or a dusting of cinnamon make for a gorgeous (and delicious) presentation.

Side Dishes

For a well-rounded breakfast, pair your Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal with crispy bacon, scrambled eggs, or a vibrant fruit salad. Any of these options balance the sweetness and turn your morning into a brunch-worthy spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal is endlessly versatile—serve it in squares straight from the pan, cut into little bars for packed lunches, or even bake in muffin tins for a cute, portable twist. You can also layer with yogurt and fruit in a parfait glass for a breakfast that feels like dessert.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (lucky you!), cover the pan tightly or transfer slices to an airtight container. Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal will keep well in the refrigerator for up to five days, making it a dream for breakfast meal prep.

Freezing

To freeze, let the oatmeal cool completely, then wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months. Just grab a piece when you want a quick, comforting breakfast!

Reheating

Reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 30 seconds, or warm the whole pan in a low oven until heated through. Add a splash of milk before reheating to bring back that just-baked moistness.

FAQs

Can I use instant oats or steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?

Rolled oats provide the ideal chewy texture for Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal. Instant oats may turn mushy, while steel-cut oats don’t cook through in the same amount of time, so stick to rolled oats for the best results.

What can I use instead of almond milk?

Absolutely any unsweetened milk—dairy or non-dairy—works beautifully here. Try oat milk, soy milk, or regular cow’s milk depending on your preference and what you have on hand.

Can I make Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal vegan?

Yes, just swap the eggs for two flax eggs (2 tablespoons ground flaxseed mixed with 5 tablespoons water) and use a plant-based milk. It will still turn out hearty and delicious.

How ripe should my bananas be?

The riper, the better for this recipe! Look for bananas with lots of brown spots. They’re sweeter, softer, and mash perfectly into the oatmeal for maximum flavor.

Is Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal sweet enough for dessert?

Definitely! With those warm spices, sweet banana, and a drizzle of maple syrup, this bake shines as a nourishing dessert. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a swirl of whipped cream for an extra treat.

Final Thoughts

Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal is truly a breakfast game-changer—warm, comforting, and loaded with nostalgic flavors you’ll crave again and again. It’s a recipe I come back to for its simplicity and delightful results, and I hope you’ll fall in love with it too. Give it a try and let it become a new favorite in your kitchen!