Baked Oats Banana Cinnamon

There is something so cozy about diving into a warm bowl of baked oats for breakfast The combination of blended oats ripe banana and a hint of sweetness creates a comforting nourishing start to your day This dish has become my trusted go-to on busy mornings when I still want something special and homemade

I first tried baked oats on a chilly Sunday and since then it has become a family favorite especially when we want something quick but still feels like a treat

Ingredients

• Rolled oats: Choose certified gluten-free oats for a wheat-free option They blend into a creamy batter that bakes up soft yet hearty
• Baking powder: Ensures the oats puff up and become light Go for aluminum free for the cleanest flavor
• Ground cinnamon: Lends warmth and subtle spice Use freshly ground for the most aroma
• Salt: Enhances the sweetness and highlights the other flavors Just a pinch does the trick
• Ripe banana: Acts as both sweetener and binder Look for well-spotted bananas for maximum flavor and sweetness
• Milk: Either dairy or unsweetened plant-based milk works beautifully Pick one with a rich body like oat or almond milk for extra creaminess
• Egg: Helps hold everything together and contributes to the tender structure Use the freshest eggs you can find
• Maple syrup or honey: Brings natural sweetness and depth Choose pure maple syrup or high quality honey for best results
• Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavor with mellow aroma Real vanilla if possible adds a special touch
• Blueberries or chocolate chips: Optional for bursts of juicy fruit or melty richness Use fresh berries if you can or mini chocolate chips for even distribution
• Chopped nuts: Optional for crunch and protein Walnuts pecans or almonds all add a satisfying bite Pick fresh nuts for best flavor and avoid salted varieties

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Begin by setting your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit 175 degrees Celsius and give two small ramekins or a medium baking dish a light coating of oil or nonstick spray This ensures your oats do not stick and bake evenly

Blend the Batter:

Add the oats baking powder cinnamon salt banana milk egg maple syrup and vanilla extract to a blender Blend for 30 to 45 seconds until the mixture is blended smooth and creamy Scrape down the sides if needed to get every bit incorporated

Pour and Add Extras:

Evenly pour the creamy batter into your greased ramekins or baking dish Sprinkle blueberries chocolate chips or chopped nuts over the top and use a spoon to gently swirl them in Try not to overmix so you keep pockets of fruit or chocolate throughout

Bake Until Set:

Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 22 to 25 minutes The top should be golden and a toothpick poked in the center comes out mostly clean A slight softness in the middle is fine as it will continue to set as it cools

Cool Slightly and Serve:

After baking let the oats sit for five minutes so they firm up slightly This short wait makes them easier to serve and brings out their natural sweetness Spoon into bowls and top with fresh fruit yogurt or a drizzle of maple syrup

Save

My favorite part of this dish is adding blueberries which burst and turn jammy as they bake The first time my daughter helped me mix in chocolate chips she called it breakfast cake and now it is our Saturday treat

Storage Tips

Store any leftover baked oats covered in the refrigerator where they will keep fresh for up to three days To reheat simply microwave for a minute or gently warm in the oven at a low temperature If making ahead you can portion into individual ramekins and keep them ready to grab and go

Ingredient Substitutions

For a vegan version swap the egg with a flax egg made from ground flaxseed blended with water Almond milk oat milk or any other plant-based milk works instead of dairy If you are out of banana try using half a cup of unsweetened applesauce and increase the sweetener slightly

Serving Suggestions

Baked oats pair perfectly with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of extra cinnamon For a brunch platter top with sliced strawberries and a swirl of nut butter On chilly mornings my kids love theirs with warm milk poured over the top

Cultural and Historical Context

Oats have long been a staple in American breakfasts for providing energy and satiety This blended baked version is inspired by modern online trends that make classic porridge feel like a cozy souffle Baked oats bridge comfort with convenience all in one dish

Seasonal Adaptations

Swap blueberries for diced apples or pears with a touch more cinnamon try pumpkin puree with pumpkin spice in autumn or add fresh strawberries when in season Keep extra nuts or coconut flakes on hand to mix in according to what is available Enjoy as a year-round make-ahead breakfast

Save

Baked oats are a comforting breakfast you can adapt endlessly for your schedule and taste Skip the ordinary and let every bowl start your morning right

Recipe FAQ

→ Can I use plant-based milk?

Yes, both dairy and plant-based milks work well, such as oat, almond, or soy milk.

→ How do I make it vegan?

Replace the egg with a flax egg and select your preferred plant-based milk for a fully vegan dish.

→ Are the oats gluten-free?

For a gluten-free version, ensure the oats are certified gluten-free on the packaging.

→ What add-ins can I use?

Try adding blueberries, chocolate chips, or chopped nuts for extra flavor and texture.

→ Can I prepare this ahead?

Yes, you can blend and refrigerate the batter overnight, then bake fresh in the morning.

→ How do I serve baked oats?

Serve warm, optionally topped with fresh fruit, yogurt, or nut butter for extra taste.