Banana Bread Baked Oats

Here’s a statement I never thought I’d say… I recently fell out of love with breakfast. It used to be my favourite meal, but over time, it started to feel like a chore.

The morning rush and the same old choices just didn’t excite me anymore, so I needed a recipe to reignite my love for breakfast, something that was quick, nutritious, and most importantly—delicious.

Enter banana bread baked oats.

Banana bread has always been my go-to treat. It’s comforting, sweet, and full of flavour.

By modifying the classic recipe to make it higher in fibre, packed with protein, and topped with rich chocolate chunks, I’ve found a way to enjoy the flavours I love while staying fuller for longer.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a list of everything you’ll need to make this banana bread baked oats recipe:

• 3 bananas
• 1 banana cut in half length-ways
• 3 cups of oats
• 2 cups plain flour
• 1 cup vanilla protein powder
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/3 cup maple syrup
• 1/2tsp vanilla extract
• 4 cups Oat milk
• 70g chocolate cut into squares or chocolate chips

Why Oat Milk is the Perfect Choice for This Recipe

When it comes to choosing a liquid base for baked oats, oat milk stands out for several reasons.

First and foremost, it has a naturally creamy texture that complements the rich and hearty oats, adding a subtle sweetness without overpowering the dish.

Oat milk is also an excellent dairy-free option, making it suitable for those who are lactose intolerant or following a plant-based diet. Its neutral flavour allows the banana and chocolate to truly shine, unlike other plant-based milks that may have a more distinct taste, like almond or coconut milk.

Moreover, oat milk has a nutritional profile that fits perfectly into this recipe. It contains fibre, vitamins, and minerals, including calcium and vitamin D, which can contribute to maintaining strong bones.

Since this recipe is designed to be wholesome and satisfying, oat milk further enhances the nutritious value without compromising on taste or texture.

Another bonus? It’s widely available and easy to make at home, so you can ensure your banana bread baked oats are as fresh and wholesome as possible.

The Role of Protein Powder in Baked Goods

Protein powder might seem like an unusual ingredient in baking, but it serves an important purpose in this recipe beyond just boosting the protein content.

When you incorporate protein powder into baked goods like these banana bread oats, it helps to add structure and density to the dish. This is especially useful when you want a more filling and satisfying breakfast that keeps you energised throughout the morning.

Since protein helps to stabilise blood sugar levels, adding it to a carbohydrate-rich dish like this ensures that you won’t experience a mid-morning energy crash.

Vanilla protein powder in particular works well here, not only for its high protein content but also for the extra hint of flavour it adds.

The subtle vanilla notes pair beautifully with the sweetness of the banana and the richness of the chocolate, enhancing the overall taste without the need for additional sweeteners.

Whether you’re using a plant-based protein powder or a whey-based one, it’s a simple way to pack more nutrients into your breakfast and turn a typically indulgent dish into something more balanced.

Why Chocolate is a Great Addition to Banana Bread

Chocolate and banana are a match made in heaven, and there’s a reason why adding chocolate to banana bread baked oats elevates this dish from delicious to downright irresistible.

The natural sweetness of ripe bananas is perfectly complemented by the bitterness of dark chocolate, creating a harmonious balance of flavours that keeps every bite exciting.

Chocolate also brings in a luxurious texture, especially when you bite into gooey, melted chocolate chunks after the dish has just come out of the oven. It transforms the baked oats into something that feels more indulgent and satisfying, without being overly sweet.

Beyond flavour, chocolate has some surprising health benefits, especially if you opt for varieties with a high cocoa content. Dark chocolate, in particular, is rich in antioxidants and can promote heart health by improving blood flow and reducing blood pressure.

So, while it might seem like an indulgence, adding chocolate to your banana bread baked oats can offer both pleasure and a few perks for your well-being.

Whether you prefer milk, dark, or even white chocolate, it’s a versatile ingredient that adds depth and a touch of decadence to an already nourishing dish.

The Best Toppings for Your Banana Bread Baked Oats

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility, and one of the best ways to make it your own is by experimenting with toppings.

While the baked oats are delicious on their own, adding a finishing touch can take them to the next level. A drizzle of honey or maple syrup can enhance the natural sweetness of the bananas, while a spoonful of peanut butter or almond butter adds richness and a protein boost.

If you’re feeling extra indulgent, try topping it with a spoonful of whipped cream or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert-like experience.

For a healthier option, fresh fruit makes an excellent addition. Berries like blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries bring a burst of freshness that contrasts nicely with the dense oats and chocolate.

You could also sprinkle some chopped nuts—such as walnuts, pecans, or almonds—over the top to add a delightful crunch and extra nutrients like healthy fats and fibre.

If you’re after a more luxurious breakfast, consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt. It not only enhances the creaminess but also brings probiotics and a tangy contrast that cuts through the richness of the dish.

How to Make This Recipe

Step 1: Choosing the best bananas

Before diving into the recipe, it’s crucial to select the right bananas.

The secret to achieving the best texture and sweetness for your banana bread baked oats is using over-ripe bananas. The more brown spots on the peel, the sweeter and softer they are, making them perfect for this recipe.

Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F) to ensure it’s ready for baking once you’ve prepared your ingredients.

If your bananas aren’t quite ripe yet, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a brown paper bag or popping them in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes. This softens the bananas, making them ideal for mashing.

Step 2: Adding your ingredients

Now it’s time to mash those bananas. Grab your baking tray, a fork, and the three bananas from your ingredient list.

Mash the bananas until smooth and creamy, forming the base of your baked oats.

Once mashed, add the oats, flour, protein powder, cinnamon, baking powder, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.

For an extra flavour boost, add a pinch of sea salt and a dash of nutmeg. These small additions elevate the overall taste profile, making the dish even more delectable.

Step 3: Mixing the batter

Next up is creating the batter.

Slowly pour in the oat milk while stirring the mixture to combine everything evenly. The consistency of the batter is important here, so take your time.

Depending on your texture preference, you might want to adjust the amount of oat milk.

For a cake-like texture, a wetter batter works well, while a thicker batter will give you a flapjack-like chewiness. Don’t be afraid to experiment to find your favourite consistency.

If you’re looking for an extra protein boost, you can substitute half the oat milk with Greek yogurt, which adds a tangy richness to the batter.

Step 4: Baking the banana bread

Once your batter is mixed to perfection, it’s time to add some indulgence—chocolate!

Whether you prefer dark, milk, or white chocolate, scatter your chunks or chips generously across the top of the batter.

Now take the banana you sliced lengthways earlier and carefully lay it across the top of the mixture. This not only adds a touch of elegance but also deepens the banana flavour as it caramelises during baking.

If you’re a fan of nuts, sprinkle some crushed walnuts or pecans on top before baking. They’ll add a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft banana bread.

Pop the tray into the preheated oven and bake at 200°C for around 40 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown.

Step 5: Serve or store

Once baked to perfection, take the banana bread out of the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. The warm banana and melted chocolate combination is hard to resist, but a brief cooling period ensures the best texture and flavour.

You can store any leftovers in the fridge for a few days. It’s easy to reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick and satisfying breakfast during busy mornings.

To serve, add a dollop of vanilla yogurt or a drizzle of maple syrup. For a bit more indulgence, try toasting it in the oven and adding a spoonful of peanut butter. Trust me—it’s a game changer!

For a more dessert-like twist, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Perfect for an afternoon treat!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes! You can swap out plain flour for whole wheat flour, almond flour, or even gluten-free flour. Each type of flour will slightly alter the texture, but all work well with the other ingredients.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe can easily be made gluten-free by swapping regular oats for certified gluten-free oats and using a gluten-free flour blend. Just be sure all ingredients are marked gluten-free to avoid any cross-contamination.

Can I make this recipe without protein powder?

Absolutely. If you don’t want to add protein powder, you can simply omit it, or replace it with an extra cup of oats or flour. The dish will still have a wonderful flavour, but with less protein.

How can I store and reheat leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for a few days. To reheat, pop a portion in the microwave for about 30 seconds, or place it in the oven for a few minutes to warm through.

Can I freeze banana bread baked oats?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Once cooled, portion it into individual servings and freeze them in airtight containers. When ready to eat, defrost in the fridge overnight and reheat in the microwave or oven.

And that’s it for this this deliciously chocolatey banana bread baked oats recipe. You can find the whole thing on a handy recipe card just below, so be sure to Pin it for later!

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