Cozy Oatmeal Banana Breakfast Bake: A Healthy Make-Ahead Delight

I’ve perfected this hearty breakfast bake that combines the comfort of banana bread with the nutrition of oatmeal. This versatile dish can be prepared ahead and reheated throughout the week, making busy mornings easier and more delicious.

The Science of Perfect Oatmeal Bakes

The secret lies in using very ripe bananas, which provide natural sweetness and moisture, while the combination of eggs and milk creates a custard-like texture that holds the oats together perfectly.

Prep & Timing Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Baking Time: 25-30 minutes
• Cooling Time: 5-10 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 9 squares

Equipment Needed

• 9×9 inch baking dish
• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Fork for mashing bananas
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Parchment paper (optional)

Ingredients

Wet Ingredients

• 3 ripe bananas (about 1½ cups mashed)
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1/4 cup (60ml) honey or maple syrup
• 1 cup (240ml) milk of choice
• 2 tablespoons melted butter or coconut oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Dry Ingredients

• 2½ cups (225g) old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Optional Mix-ins (choose 1-2)

• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
• 1/3 cup dark chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup shredded coconut

Topping

• 1 banana, sliced
• Handful of nuts
• Sprinkle of cinnamon

Detailed Instructions

Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
2. Grease baking dish or line with parchment
3. Gather all ingredients and bring eggs to room temperature

Making the Base

1. Mash bananas:

• Place peeled bananas in large bowl
• Mash until mostly smooth
• Some small chunks are okay

1. Add wet ingredients:

• Beat in eggs
• Pour in honey/maple syrup
• Add milk
• Stir in melted butter
• Add vanilla extract
• Whisk until well combined

1. Combine dry ingredients:

• Add rolled oats
• Sprinkle in baking powder
• Add cinnamon and nutmeg
• Add salt
• Stir until well mixed

1. Finish the batter:

• Fold in chosen mix-ins
• Don’t overmix

Assembly and Baking

1. Transfer to baking dish:

• Pour batter evenly
• Smooth top with spatula

1. Add toppings:

• Arrange banana slices
• Sprinkle nuts
• Dust with cinnamon

1. Bake:

• 25-30 minutes until set
• Edges should be golden
• Center should be firm

Cooling and Serving

1. Cool in pan 5-10 minutes
2. Cut into 9 squares
3. Serve warm or at room temperature

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

1. Use overripe bananas with brown spots
2. Don’t overmix after adding oats
3. Check doneness at 25 minutes
4. Let cool slightly for easier cutting
5. Store covered to maintain moisture

Storage Instructions

• Room Temperature: 2 days
• Refrigerator: 5 days
• Freezer: 3 months
• Reheat: 30 seconds in microwave

Nutritional Information (per square)

• Calories: 225
• Total Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 45mg
• Sodium: 135mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 35g
• Dietary Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 15g
• Protein: 6g

Serving Suggestions

Hot Toppings

• Warm milk
• Maple syrup drizzle
• Melted peanut butter
• Hot honey

Cold Toppings

• Greek yogurt
• Fresh berries
• Sliced almonds
• Hemp seeds

Variations

Protein-Packed Version

• Add 2 scoops protein powder
• Reduce oats by 1/4 cup
• Increase milk by 1/4 cup

Fall Spice Version

• Add 1/2 teaspoon ginger
• Include 1/8 teaspoon cloves
• Double the cinnamon

Tropical Version

• Use coconut milk
• Add dried pineapple
• Include macadamia nuts
• Top with toasted coconut

Perfect for:

• Busy mornings
• Meal prep
• Post-workout fuel
• Kid’s breakfasts
• Brunch gatherings
• Healthy snacking

This oatmeal banana breakfast bake combines convenience with nutrition, making it an ideal choice for a wholesome start to your day.