Craving a satisfying breakfast that fuels your day without the fuss? You need this Banana Walnut Baked Oatmeal. It’s a healthy, hearty, and effortlessly delicious way to start your mornings, perfect for meal prepping a week of wholesome breakfasts.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Rolled Oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats work best. Avoid instant or steel-cut oats for this recipe.
- Ripe Bananas: The riper, the sweeter! Mashed banana provides natural sweetness and moisture.
- Walnuts: Adds a lovely crunch and healthy fats. Pecans or chopped almonds are great substitutes.
- Milk: Any milk works here – dairy or non-dairy (almond, soy, oat).
- Maple Syrup: Use honey or agave nectar if you prefer, or omit if your bananas are very ripe.
- Eggs: Binds everything together. You can use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg) for a vegan option.
Ingredients:
Main:
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 ½ cups milk
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup chopped walnuts
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Spices:
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Tools: 8×8 inch baking dish, large mixing bowl
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an 8×8 inch baking dish to prevent sticking. This makes serving and cleanup much easier.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, mash your ripe bananas until smooth. Add the milk, maple syrup, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk these wet ingredients together until they are well combined.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients
To the wet mixture, add the rolled oats, chopped walnuts, ground cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Stir everything thoroughly until the dry ingredients are fully incorporated into the wet. Ensure no dry spots remain.
4. Pour and Bake
Pour the oatmeal mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the oatmeal is set.
5. Cool and Serve
Remove the Healthy Baked Oatmeal from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows it to firm up slightly and makes it easier to cut. Enjoy it warm!
Variation Ideas:
- Berry Boost: Add ½ cup of fresh or frozen berries (blueberries, raspberries) to the mix.
- Chocolate Chip: Stir in ½ cup of chocolate chips for a sweeter treat.
- Nut Butter Swirl: Swirl a few tablespoons of your favorite nut butter on top before baking.
- Apple Cinnamon: Replace one banana with ½ cup of grated apple and add an extra ¼ teaspoon of cinnamon.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftover Banana Walnut Baked Oatmeal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. To reheat, you can microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes, or warm a larger portion in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Add a splash of milk if it seems too dry.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can I make this Healthy Baked Oatmeal ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture the night before and store it in the baking dish in the refrigerator. Bake it fresh in the morning.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Ensure you use certified gluten-free rolled oats to make this recipe gluten-free. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I use steel-cut oats?
No, steel-cut oats require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Stick to old-fashioned rolled oats for the best results in this recipe.
How do I know if my bananas are ripe enough?
Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots on the peel. They will be softer and sweeter, providing the best flavor for your Healthy Baked Oatmeal.
Can I freeze baked oatmeal?
Yes, cut the baked oatmeal into individual portions and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat.
What can I serve with this baked oatmeal?
It’s delicious on its own, but you can also top it with extra fruit, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a dollop of yogurt.
