These baked banana oat cups are the perfect solution for busy mornings—soft, naturally sweet, and packed with wholesome oats and ripe bananas. They’re like a bowl of oatmeal in a portable, grab-and-go form.
Perfect for meal prep, these cups come together in minutes and keep you satisfied all morning. Naturally gluten-free (if using certified oats), dairy-free, and with no added sugar, they’re a healthy breakfast or snack the whole family will love.
Ingredients
For the Banana Oat Cups (makes 12 cups):
- 3 very ripe bananas, mashed (about 1½ cups)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup (240ml) milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups (270g) old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Optional Add-Ins:
- ½ cup chocolate chips
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- ½ cup blueberries or diced apple
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds or flaxseed meal
For Serving:
- Greek yogurt
- Fresh fruit
- Drizzle of honey or maple syrup
Instructions
1. Prep and Preheat: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Generously grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line with paper liners.
2. Mash the Bananas: In a large bowl, mash the bananas with a fork until smooth.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Whisk in the eggs, milk, maple syrup (if using), and vanilla until well combined.
4. Add Dry Ingredients: Stir in the oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until everything is evenly combined. If using any add-ins, fold them in now. Let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the oats to absorb the liquid.
5. Fill the Muffin Tin: Divide the mixture evenly among the 12 muffin cups, filling them almost to the top. Press down gently to compact.
6. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the tops are golden brown and the cups are set. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
7. Cool: Let the cups cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Serve or Store: Serve warm or at room temperature. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Pro-Tips for Banana Oat Cup Perfection
- Use Very Ripe Bananas: The riper, the sweeter and more flavorful. Brown-spotted bananas are ideal.
- Let the Mixture Rest: Allowing the oats to soak for 10-15 minutes creates a softer, more cohesive texture.
- Grease the Pan Well: These can stick—use non-stick spray or butter generously, or use paper liners.
- Customize Add-Ins: Chocolate chips, nuts, berries, or a swirl of nut butter are all delicious.
- Make It Vegan: Use flax eggs (2 tablespoons flaxseed meal + 5 tablespoons water) and non-dairy milk.
- Make Ahead: These are perfect for meal prep. Make a batch on Sunday and enjoy all week.
- Freezer Friendly: Wrap individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or toaster oven.
These Baked Banana Oat Cups are healthy, delicious, and perfect for busy mornings.
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