Banana Bread Oatmeal

This Banana Bread Oatmeal brings all the cozy, nostalgic vibes of banana bread straight to your breakfast bowl—no loaf pan required! It’s warm, soft, and perfectly sliceable, making it just as good for slow mornings as it is for meal prep.

What is Banana Bread Oatmeal?

Banana bread oatmeal is a baked oatmeal recipe inspired by classic banana bread flavors, with ripe bananas, warming spices, and a tender, spoonable texture. Instead of standing over the stove stirring oats, everything comes together in one dish and bakes until just set, creating a breakfast that feels comforting without being heavy.

Unlike traditional oatmeal, this version slices beautifully and reheats like a dream, which makes it especially popular for make-ahead breakfasts. It’s easy to customize with mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts, and it works well with dairy-free, gluten-free, or egg-free swaps when needed.

Ingredients You Need for Baked Banana Oatmeal

• Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats – We love using rolled oats because they bake up sturdy and satisfying. They create that classic baked oatmeal texture that slices cleanly and reheats beautifully! We do not recommend using quick oats for this bake because they can give it a mushy texture.
• Brown Sugar – Using brown sugar adds subtle molasses notes that echo traditional banana bread flavor. It also helps balance the natural sweetness from the bananas without overpowering the oats.
• Baking Powder – This gives the oatmeal a gentle lift so it doesn’t bake up dense or compact. It’s our secret to achieving a lighter, fluffier texture throughout!
• Cinnamon – This brings warm, cozy spice that instantly makes the oatmeal smell amazing as it bakes. It also pairs beautifully with banana and chocolate for a familiar, comforting flavor.
• Nutmeg – A small amount goes a long way in adding depth and complexity. We love using it to give the oatmeal that classic banana bread aroma.
• Salt – Salt helps balance the sweetness and keeps the flavors from tasting flat. Even a little bit makes everything else shine.
• Milk of Choice – Any milk works here, which makes this recipe easy to customize. It softens the oats while keeping the baked oatmeal moist and creamy.
• Bananas – Ripe bananas are essential for both flavor and texture. They mash smoothly and add natural sweetness that deepens as the oatmeal bakes.
• Egg – Egg provides structure so the oatmeal sets up nicely instead of crumbling.
• Vanilla Extract – We add this to round out the flavors and bring out the sweetness. 
• Dark Chocolate Chips – These melt into pockets of rich chocolate throughout the oatmeal. 
• Unsalted Butter – Melted butter adds richness and keeps the oatmeal soft.

How to Make Banana Bread Oatmeal

1. Mix the base. Add the oats, mashed bananas, milk, egg, melted butter, sugar, baking powder, spices, and vanilla directly to the dish and stir until everything is evenly combined.
2. Add the topping. Scatter chocolate chips across the top of the base.
3. Bake until set. Let the oatmeal bake until the center is just firm and the edges look lightly golden. If the center is still jiggly or wet, the oatmeal needs more time to bake. 
4. Finish and serve. Add any of your favorite toppings and enjoy warm, or let it cool slightly for clean slices.

Air Fryer Option

1. Prep the mixture. Combine all ingredients except the chocolate in an air fryer–safe dish, stirring until smooth and evenly mixed.
2. Add mix-ins. Sprinkle chocolate chips over the top so they melt into the surface.
3. Cook until firm. Air fry until the oatmeal is set in the center and lightly golden on top.
4. Serve. Finish with toppings and enjoy immediately.

Variations on Banana Bread Oatmeal

• Nuts – Add chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch and a classic banana bread vibe. Toasting the nuts first adds even more depth.
• Cinnamon Sugar Swirl – Swirl a little cinnamon and brown sugar mixture through the batter before baking for a layered flavor.
• Protein – Stir in protein powder or serve with Greek yogurt on top for a more filling breakfast. Choose a neutral or vanilla flavor to keep things balanced.
• Dairy-Free – Use almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk and swap the butter for a plant-based alternative. 
• Vegan – Replace the egg with a flax egg and use dairy-free milk and butter. 
• Nut-Free – Skip nuts entirely or use seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for crunch without allergens.
• Mix-ins – Sprinkle in dried fruit, coconut, or your favorite additions.

  

Can I Store Leftovers?

Once cooled, leftovers hold their shape well. The texture softens slightly as it sits, though, which many people actually love!

Refrigerate leftovers can stay fresh in an airtight container for 4–5 days, making this a great option for make-ahead breakfasts during the week. You can also refrigerate unbaked banana bread oatmeal and heat it in the morning!

For longer storage, freeze individual portions for up to 3 months, then reheat in the oven or microwave. Using a little bit of milk will help to restore creaminess while reheating.

Common Questions about this Banana Bread Oatmeal Recipe

More Breakfast Recipes

If cozy mornings and easy prep breakfasts are your thing, we have you covered! These recipes are as simple as they are satisfying.

Blueberry Baked Oatmeal

Copycat Starbucks Egg Muffins

Peanut Butter Banana Baked Oatmeal Bars

Strawberry Cheesecake Overnight Oats