Imagine waking up to the most incredible aroma of warm banana bread wafting through your kitchen, without spending hours in preparation. This Overnight Baked Banana Bread Oatmeal is not just a recipe; it's a morning game-changer that combines the comforting flavors of classic banana bread with the hearty nutrition of baked oatmeal. Perfect for busy mornings, meal preppers, and anyone who craves a delicious, hassle-free breakfast that feels like a treat but nourishes your body from the inside out.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 cups almond milk
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your oven is at the right temperature when you are ready to bake the oatmeal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the 2 cups of rolled oats, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Stir these dry ingredients together until they are evenly mixed.
- In a separate bowl, mash the 2 ripe bananas using a fork or potato masher until smooth. You can leave some small chunks if you prefer a bit of texture in your oatmeal.
- Add the mashed bananas to the dry ingredients, followed by the 2 cups of almond milk, 1/4 cup of maple syrup, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts. Mix everything together until well combined. Ensure that the oats are fully soaked in the liquid.
- Grease a 9x9 inch (or similar size) baking dish with a little oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Pour the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- For added flavor and texture, you can sprinkle a few extra walnuts or banana slices on top of the mixture before baking, if desired.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the oatmeal is set.
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will make it easier to cut into portions.
- Serve warm, either as is or with additional toppings such as fresh fruit, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a splash of almond milk if you like it creamier.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave before serving.
Tips
- Choose Very Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your oatmeal will be. Look for bananas with lots of brown spots.
- Customize Your Toppings: While the recipe includes walnuts, feel free to experiment with other nuts like pecans or almonds, or add chocolate chips for extra indulgence.
- Make It Ahead: This recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare it the night before and refrigerate, then bake in the morning for a fresh, warm breakfast.
- Check Moisture Levels: If the mixture seems too dry, add a little more almond milk. If it's too wet, add a few more oats to achieve the perfect consistency.
- Storage Hack: This oatmeal freezes beautifully. Cut into portions and store in freezer-safe containers for up to a month. Reheat in the microwave for a quick breakfast.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 9g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
