Banana Nut Baked Oatmeal Recipe
If you’re craving a warm, comforting breakfast that feels like a hug in a bowl, this Banana Nut Baked Oatmeal Recipe is exactly what you need. With ripe bananas providing natural sweetness and creamy moisture, combined with the hearty texture of rolled oats and the crunch of toasted nuts, this dish transforms simple ingredients into a nourishing morning treat. It’s easy to make, utterly satisfying, and delivers a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will have you reaching for seconds without guilt.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Banana Nut Baked Oatmeal Recipe plays a vital role in creating a perfect harmony of taste, texture, and warmth. From the sweetness of ripe bananas to the subtle spice of cinnamon, these pantry staples come together effortlessly.
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed: Provides natural sweetness and moisture, creating a soft texture throughout.
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats: The hearty base offering fiber and a chewy, satisfying bite.
- 1 1/2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy): Adds creaminess and helps bind the oats tenderly.
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans: Adds crunch and nutty richness to every bite.
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey: A natural sweetener that complements the bananas beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, inviting aroma and depth of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a cozy spice that pairs wonderfully with bananas and nuts.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Helps give a light, fluffy texture to the baked oatmeal.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 1 egg (optional): Provides extra structure for a more cake-like texture, but feel free to skip it.
- 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional): Introduces bursts of chewy, tart sweetness for extra interest.
How to Make Banana Nut Baked Oatmeal Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is key for achieving a perfectly golden top and a creamy interior. Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for an easy, no-fuss cleanup.
Step 2: Mash the Bananas
Grab your ripe bananas and mash them with a fork until they’re nice and smooth. These bananas infuse natural sweetness and moisture, so there’s no need for extra sugar.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
Into the mashed bananas, stir in the milk, maple syrup or honey, vanilla extract, and the egg if you’re using it. Mixing these thoroughly ensures the flavors blend and the batter has the right consistency for baking.
Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the oats, ground cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. This blend is what gives the baked oatmeal its lovely texture and gently spiced flavor.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Pour the dry mixture into the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. The batter will be thick and hearty, the perfect base for the nuts and any dried fruit you want to add.
Step 6: Fold in Nuts and Dried Fruit
Gently incorporate the chopped walnuts or pecans, and raisins or dried cranberries if you like, folding them into the batter so every bite has a delightful surprise.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the mixture evenly into your prepared dish. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until the top looks golden and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. That’s your signal the Banana Nut Baked Oatmeal Recipe is perfectly cooked.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Allow the oatmeal to cool for a few minutes before slicing. This resting time helps it set beautifully, making slices neat and easy to handle.
How to Serve Banana Nut Baked Oatmeal Recipe

Garnishes
Drizzle extra maple syrup over warm slices or add a generous dollop of yogurt to complement the natural sweetness. Fresh fruit like sliced bananas or berries adds color and freshness, while a sprinkle of additional chopped nuts gives a satisfying crunch.
Side Dishes
This baked oatmeal shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with a side of crispy bacon or a simple green smoothie. These combinations provide a balanced breakfast with protein and greens alongside your comforting oatmeal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Banana Nut Baked Oatmeal Recipe in individual ramekins for a special touch, or cut into squares and pack as a grab-and-go breakfast. You can even top it with nut butter or a spoonful of warm almond milk for an extra cozy vibe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Simply cover any leftover banana nut baked oatmeal tightly and refrigerate. It stays moist and delicious for up to four days, making it a perfect breakfast for the busy week ahead.
Freezing
If you want to keep your baked oatmeal fresh longer, slice it into portions and freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture.
Reheating
Warm individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through. Adding a splash of milk before reheating helps restore its creamy consistency and keeps it from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
While rolled oats provide the best texture in this Banana Nut Baked Oatmeal Recipe, quick oats can work in a pinch. Just expect a softer, less chewy result.
Is it necessary to add an egg to the recipe?
The egg is optional and adds extra structure for a cakier texture. If you’re vegan or prefer to skip it, the recipe will still turn out delicious and hearty.
Can I substitute the nuts with seeds?
Absolutely! Chopped pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds are excellent alternatives that add crunch and nutrition without changing the dish’s flavor profile too much.
What’s the best way to sweeten the oatmeal?
Maple syrup and honey are the top sweeteners here, both adding natural sweetness with depth. You can also experiment with coconut sugar if you like a more caramel-like flavor.
Can I add other fruits to the Banana Nut Baked Oatmeal Recipe?
Definitely! Blueberries, chopped apples, or even shredded coconut make wonderful additions. Just fold them in with the nuts and dried fruit to balance the flavors and textures.
Final Thoughts
This Banana Nut Baked Oatmeal Recipe is a heartwarming breakfast that’s easy enough for any morning and satisfying enough to please the whole family. It’s a great way to start your day with wholesome ingredients, delightful textures, and flavors that feel like home. I hope you try it soon and discover how a simple blend of bananas, oats, and nuts can become your new favorite breakfast ritual.
Print
Banana Nut Baked Oatmeal Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Banana Nut Baked Oatmeal is a warm, comforting breakfast casserole that’s both nutritious and delicious. Made with ripe bananas, rolled oats, and crunchy nuts, it’s naturally sweetened with maple syrup or honey and flavored with cinnamon and vanilla. Perfectly baked to a golden finish, this recipe is an easy make-ahead option for busy mornings, delivering a wholesome start that’s satisfying and hearty.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 1/2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg (optional, for added structure)
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Add-ins
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (or your choice of nuts)
- 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a 9×9-inch baking dish by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth; then add the milk, maple syrup or honey, vanilla extract, and the egg if using. Stir well until all the wet ingredients are fully combined.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the rolled oats, ground cinnamon, baking powder, and salt, mixing them evenly.
- Combine Ingredients: Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet banana mixture, folding until everything is well incorporated without overmixing.
- Add Nuts and Dried Fruit: Fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans and the raisins or dried cranberries if using, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the oatmeal mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes until the top turns golden-brown and the center is set; verify by inserting a knife which should come out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the baked oatmeal to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm, optionally with a drizzle of extra maple syrup or a dollop of yogurt for added creaminess.
Notes
- You can substitute walnuts or pecans with any other favorite nuts like almonds or cashews.
- For a vegan version, use a plant-based milk and replace the egg with a flax or chia egg.
- The recipe can be prepared the night before and baked in the morning for convenience.
- Add fresh fruit toppings like sliced bananas or berries for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American