Have you tried baked oatmeal? This healthy banana baked oatmeal is seriously life-affirming. It’s warm and comforting, with a hint of sweetness and cinnamon, and studded with fruit and crunchy chopped nuts.
Essentially, it’s a breakfast bake/casserole with a consistency similar to bread pudding. It feels decadent, but it’s easy enough to make any time of the week. And it’s packed with nutritious ingredients, too! There’s really no reason not to make this scrumptious breakfast. 🙂
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Banana Baked Oatmeal with Applesauce
My friend Lauren shared this banana baked oatmeal for breakfast on a girls trip to Georgia. It was so delicious (and easy) I knew I had to share.
It’s a simple, nutritious, and versatile breakfast recipe that’s perfect for a group brunch. Or, prep it ahead so you have a healthy breakfast ready to go during the week. (Double or triple the recipe for larger groups).
Also, it’s super tasty, and it’ll keep you full and satisfied until lunch!
Baked Oatmeal Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this:
- rolled or quick oats (if gluten-free, be sure to use GF-certified oats)
- brown sugar (pure maple syrup can be used instead if desired)
- dried fruit (we used raisins)
- chopped nuts (e.g. walnuts or almonds; optional)
- cinnamon
- baking powder
- milk (or almond milk)
- unsweetened applesauce
- very ripe bananas, chopped or sliced
- canola oil
- egg
You can basically put any dried fruit you like it here. Fresh fruit works too! Blueberries would be delicious.
But I will say the ripe bananas are a staple whenever we make it. They add a slight sweetness and creaminess that can’t be beat!
How to Make Healthy Baked Oatmeal
Start by preheating your oven to 375. In a large bowl, combine the dry ingredients and stir. In a separate bowl, combine wet ingredients and mix.
Then, pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until mixed.
Grease a baking dish and pour in the batter. Bake for 20-35 minutes or until the oatmeal is firm.
(If making ahead, just pop individual portions in the microwave to heat them up.) Enjoy plain or topped with yogurt, nut butter, or extra fresh fruit!
Oatmeal Topping Ideas
I love how versatile oatmeal is. This baked oatmeal is delicious as is, but you can also switch up your toppings as much as you like! Here are some delicious topping ideas:
- berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, etc.)
- chocolate chips
- drizzle of nut butter (peanut butter, almond butter, cashew butter, etc.)
- extra chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, almonds, etc.)
- tropical fruit like mango or unsweetened shredded coconut
- Greek yogurt (adds tanginess and extra creaminess)
- a splash of milk (it might sound weird, but it’s really good on hot baked oatmeal – especially if you prefer your oatmeal super moist!)
You’ll find the full banana baked oatmeal recipe at the bottom of this post. Enjoy!
What’s a favorite brunch recipe of yours? Let me know in the comments!
Banana Baked Oatmeal Recipe
This banana baked oatmeal is simple, healthy, and easy to make ahead of time. A perfect breakfast or brunch recipe everyone will love!
Ingredients:
Dry:
- 2 cups rolled or quick oats
- 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/3 cup dried fruit (we used raisins)
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (e.g. walnuts or almonds; optional)
- 2 Tbsp. cinnamon
- 1 tsp. baking powder
Wet:
- 1 & 1/2 cup milk or almond milk
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 2 very ripe bananas, chopped or sliced
- 2 Tbsp. canola oil
- 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375.
- In a large bowl, mix dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, mix wet ingredients. Add wet ingredients to dry, stirring gently until mixed.
- Coat an 8-inch baking dish with cooking spray; pour in batter.
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until firm. Serve warm.
Notes:
For making ahead: I don't recommend making just the batter ahead of time. If the batter sits too long, the oats will soak up all the liquid and get mushy. So be sure to bake the batter right away, then store in the refrigerator until ready to eat. To warm, either microwave individual portions, or re-bake at 350 degrees F for about 10 minutes.
