If you’re searching for a comforting breakfast that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, this Baked Banana Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Packed with wholesome oats, naturally sweet bananas, and pockets of melty chocolate chips, this baked oatmeal offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that’s both hearty and inviting. It’s an easy-to-make dish that transforms simple pantry staples into a crowd-pleasing morning treat everyone will adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering straightforward but flavorful ingredients is the secret to nailing this recipe every time. Each element plays a key role—from the oats providing heartiness, to the ripe bananas adding natural sweetness and moisture, while the chocolate chips bring bursts of indulgence.
- Old-fashioned rolled oats: The perfect base for a chewy and satisfying texture that holds its shape when baked.
- Baking powder: Helps the oatmeal rise slightly, keeping it light and fluffy rather than dense.
- Cinnamon: Adds warming spice and depth, complementing the banana’s natural sweetness.
- Nutmeg: Just a hint to elevate the flavor with subtle earthiness.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and boosts all the flavors.
- Ripe bananas: The star ingredient that brings creaminess and natural sugar, making the dish irresistibly moist.
- Milk (dairy or non-dairy): Blends everything together smoothly and keeps the oatmeal tender.
- Eggs: Provide structure and richness so the oatmeal bakes perfectly firm.
- Pure maple syrup: A natural sweetener that enhances flavor with subtle caramel notes.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a fragrant warmth that rounds out the taste beautifully.
- Chocolate chips: Little nuggets of gooey decadence that make every bite a treat.
How to Make Baked Banana Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Recipe
Step 1: Prepare your baking dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease either an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking pan with melted butter or non-stick spray to ensure your oatmeal won’t stick and comes out cleanly after baking.
Step 2: Mix the dry ingredients
Combine your rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a large bowl. This blend of dry ingredients sets the foundation that will absorb the flavors of the wet mix, making each bite perfectly spiced and structured.
Step 3: Prepare the wet ingredients
Mash your ripe bananas until silky smooth. Then, whisk in milk, eggs, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until fully combined. This mixture adds moisture, nutrition, and sweetness, weaving all the elements together beautifully.
Step 4: Combine wet and dry mixtures
Pour the wet mixture into your dry ingredients and gently stir just until combined. Be sure not to overmix, as this keeps your baked oatmeal tender. Finally, fold in the chocolate chips so they’re evenly distributed throughout.
Step 5: Bake to perfection
Transfer your oatmeal batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Pop it in the oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. For a creamier, softer texture, aim closer to 50 minutes; for a firmer oat bake, let it go for the full hour.
Step 6: Let it rest before serving
Once baked, allow the dish to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before scooping. This brief waiting time lets it set up nicely, making it easier to cut and enhancing the overall eating experience.
How to Serve Baked Banana Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Recipe
Garnishes
Feel free to dress up your warm oatmeal with a dollop of creamy yogurt, a drizzle of extra maple syrup, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for added crunch. Fresh fruit like blueberries or sliced strawberries can also brighten the plate while adding a refreshing contrast.
Side Dishes
This baked oatmeal pairs wonderfully with crispy bacon or sausage for those who enjoy savory alongside sweet. A simple glass of freshly squeezed orange juice or a smoothie can round out the meal for a vibrant and wholesome breakfast spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this baked goodness straight from the pan for a cozy family feel or cut into neat squares on individual plates for a brunch gathering. You can even portion it into mason jars to create grab-and-go breakfasts that are as delightful as they are practical.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover leftover baked oatmeal tightly and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days, making it a perfect option for quick breakfasts during busy mornings.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully. Simply cut into portions and wrap each piece in plastic wrap or place in airtight containers. Frozen baked banana chocolate chip oatmeal can last up to 3 months—great for stocking your freezer with wholesome breakfasts.
Reheating
Warm leftovers in the microwave for about 30 to 60 seconds or until heated through. For best results, sprinkle a few extra chocolate chips on top before reheating to revive that melty chocolate magic.
FAQs
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Quick oats could work in a pinch, but they tend to absorb liquid differently and may create a softer or mushier texture. Rolled oats strike the perfect balance for this baked oatmeal recipe’s chewy consistency.
Can I substitute the eggs?
Yes! For an egg-free version, you can use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) to maintain binding. Just mix and let it sit for a few minutes before adding.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely. Use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, replace eggs with flax eggs, and ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free. You’ll still get that amazing flavor everyone loves.
How ripe should the bananas be?
The riper, the better! Bananas with brown spots or fully brown skins are sweeter, which boosts the natural sugars and moisture in the baked oatmeal, resulting in more flavor and softness.
Can I add other mix-ins?
Definitely. Chopped nuts, shredded coconut, dried fruits, or even a handful of seeds can add interesting textures and flavors. Just be mindful to adjust quantities so the oatmeal maintains the right consistency.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about the simplicity and warmth of this Baked Banana Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Recipe. It’s a nutritious, delicious way to start your day that feels like a special treat without any fuss. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it quickly becomes a household favorite. Happy baking and even happier eating!
Print
Baked Banana Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Baked Banana Chocolate Chip Oatmeal is a warm, comforting breakfast dish featuring hearty oats, ripe bananas, and sweet chocolate chips. It’s naturally sweetened with pure maple syrup and flavored with warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Easy to prepare and baked to perfection, it offers a delicious and nutritious start to your day.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2½ cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas
- 2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy alternatives like almond or oat milk)
- 2 eggs
- ¾ cup pure maple syrup
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Add-ins
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking dish with melted butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt thoroughly to distribute the spices and leavening agent evenly.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Add the milk, eggs, maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the bananas and whisk together until fully combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredient mixture into the bowl with dry ingredients. Stir gently but thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly mixed. Fold in the chocolate chips carefully.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the oatmeal mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure uniform baking.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. For a softer, creamier texture, bake closer to 50 minutes; for a firmer set, bake nearer to 60 minutes.
- Rest and Serve: After baking, let the oatmeal rest for 5 to 10 minutes to firm up and cool slightly. Serve warm for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute the chocolate chips with nuts or dried fruit according to your preference.
- Non-dairy milk alternatives like almond, oat, or soy milk work well in this recipe.
- For added flavor, try topping with a drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of yogurt before serving.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 5 days and reheated in the microwave.
- This dish can be customized by adding a sprinkle of chia seeds or flaxseeds for extra nutrition.
