Banana Nut Baked Oatmeal Recipe

If you’re ready to transform your mornings with something equal parts cozy and nourishing, Banana Nut Baked Oatmeal is about to become your new kitchen hero. Imagine warm, tender oats infused with sweet bananas and crispy walnuts, all baked up golden and perfect—like banana bread and hearty oatmeal blissfully merged. This make-ahead breakfast bakes up in one dish, fills your home with rich, nutty aromas, and fuels you for the day (with lots of leftovers, if you’re lucky!). You simply can’t beat the combination of ease, flavor, and wholesome comfort packed into each slice of Banana Nut Baked Oatmeal.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

I absolutely love how simple, familiar ingredients come together to create something truly special in this dish. Each element adds dimension—ripe bananas for sweetness, oats for cozy texture, walnuts for crunch, and a few pantry staples to bring it all together in golden, baked breakfast magic.

• Bananas (2 ripe, mashed): The riper, the better! They bring natural sweetness and moisture for that banana bread flavor.
• Old-fashioned rolled oats (2 cups): These give your bake hearty structure and a deliciously chewy bite.
• Chopped walnuts (1/2 cup): Walnuts bring that essential nutty crunch—pecans work great, too!
• Maple syrup or honey (1/4 cup): Either sweetener lends rich depth and a touch of natural sweetness.
• Ground cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): This classic spice wakes up all the warmth in the bananas and oats.
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Just a pinch elevates and balances every other flavor in the pan.
• Baking powder (1 teaspoon): For lift and a beautifully puffed-up bake.
• Milk, dairy or non-dairy (1 1/2 cups): Your choice here makes this recipe friendly for all eaters, creamy either way!
• Large egg (1): The egg binds everything together for sliceable, soft squares.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds a delicious, aromatic background note that makes this breakfast feel a little extra special.
• Melted coconut oil or butter (2 tablespoons): For richness and melt-in-your-mouth texture—pick your favorite.

How to Make Banana Nut Baked Oatmeal

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Preheat

Start by firing up your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing an 8×8-inch baking dish. This crucial step ensures nothing sticks and your Banana Nut Baked Oatmeal slices come out perfectly golden, with edges that are easy to serve.

Step 2: Mix Your Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, maple syrup (or honey), egg, milk, vanilla extract, and melted coconut oil (or butter). Give everything a good whisk until smooth and nicely blended—this is where all the sweetness and richness come together!

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients

Next, stir in the oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Fold the mixture gently so every oat gets coated in banana goodness—no dry pockets here. The cinnamon will smell incredible even before this goes into the oven.

Step 4: Fold in Chopped Walnuts

Now, carefully fold in your chopped walnuts. They’ll be generously studded throughout the batter, giving you a delightful crunch in every bite. If you like, you can toss in extra nuts or even a handful of chocolate chips for a sweeter twist!

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and use a spatula to smooth out the top. Slide it into the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top looks lightly golden, the edges are set, and your kitchen smells heavenly.

Step 6: Cool and Slice

Give the Banana Nut Baked Oatmeal a good 5 to 10 minutes to rest after baking. This helps it firm up, making it easy to slice into neat squares (and ensures you won’t burn your tongue with that first bite!).

How to Serve Banana Nut Baked Oatmeal

Garnishes

For a touch of café-worthy flair, sprinkle your oatmeal squares with a little more chopped walnuts, sliced bananas, or a drizzle of maple syrup right before serving. A dusting of cinnamon or a dollop of Greek yogurt can turn each serving into something worthy of weekend brunch.

Side Dishes

This hearty dish pairs beautifully with lighter sides—think a simple fruit salad, crispy bacon for savory contrast, or even a smoothie for extra freshness. Banana Nut Baked Oatmeal stands on its own but plays well with whatever morning treats you’re craving.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting the baked oatmeal into fun shapes using cookie cutters for kiddos, or serve in mason jars layered with yogurt and fresh fruit for an on-the-go parfait. You can even serve it warm in a bowl with an extra splash of milk for true cozy comfort.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Pop any leftover Banana Nut Baked Oatmeal into an airtight container and refrigerate—it stays moist and delicious for up to 4 days. The texture holds up beautifully, making meal prep breakfasts a breeze!

Freezing

For longer-term storage, slice the cooled oatmeal into portions, wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and freeze. It’ll keep its flavor and texture for up to three months—so you can always have a wholesome breakfast waiting.

Reheating

To reheat, simply microwave individual slices for about 45 seconds, or pop them in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes. Add a splash of milk before warming if you like it a little extra moist!

FAQs

Can I make Banana Nut Baked Oatmeal vegan?

Absolutely! Swap the egg for a flax egg (just mix 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons water and let it sit until thick), use dairy-free milk, and opt for maple syrup instead of honey. The result is still hearty, nutty, and delicious.

What other nuts can I use besides walnuts?

Pecans are a lovely substitute in this recipe, but you can also try chopped almonds, hazelnuts, or even cashews. Each nut offers a unique flavor and crunch that pairs beautifully with banana and oats.

Can I add chocolate chips for extra sweetness?

Definitely! Fold in up to half a cup of chocolate chips along with the walnuts for a decadent, banana-bread-meets-oatmeal vibe. You can use dark, milk, or even white chocolate—just have fun with it.

How do I know when Banana Nut Baked Oatmeal is done baking?

Look for a lightly golden top and the edges pulling away from the pan. The center should feel set—not jiggly—when you press it gently with a spoon. If you’re unsure, insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out mostly clean.

Can I prepare Banana Nut Baked Oatmeal the night before?

Yes! You can mix everything up, spread it into your baking dish, cover, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, just pop it straight into the oven (add a few extra minutes to the bake time if it’s cold). Fresh breakfast, made effortless!

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a breakfast that’s both soul-warming and practical, give Banana Nut Baked Oatmeal a go! It’s easy to throw together, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to make mornings feel a bit brighter. Share it with your favorite people—or keep the leftovers just for yourself, no judgment here!

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