Banana Baked Oatmeal Cups Recipe

Cook Time: 30 minutes

This recipe is a great way to start your day with a healthy and delicious breakfast. These Banana Oatmeal Cups are soft, flavorful, and easy to make. Plus, they are perfect for meal prep, so you can enjoy them all week long.

Ingredients

• 1 1/4 cups mashed ripe banana
• 1/3 cup honey, or to taste
• 1 large egg
• 3/4 cup unsweetened almond milk, or milk of choice
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 cups old fashioned rolled oats
• 1/2 cup almond flour
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds (optional)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• Baking spray with flour (for greasing the muffin tin)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350F (180C). Spray a 12-cup muffin tin with a baking spray that contains flour.

2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mashed banana, honey, egg, almond milk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, almond extract, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg. Mix well until all ingredients are fully combined.

3. Add the rolled oats, almond flour, sliced almonds (if using), and baking powder to the wet mixture. Stir until everything is evenly incorporated.

4. Evenly distribute the oatmeal mixture into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup almost to the top. If desired, sprinkle a few extra sliced almonds and oats on top of the batter in each cup.

5. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the edges of the oatmeal cups are golden brown and the cups feel firm to the touch.

6. Once done, allow the oatmeal cups to cool in the muffin tin for 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 156
• Total Fat: 6g (8% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 1g (3% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 16mg (5% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 152mg (7% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 23g (8% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 3g (9% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 10g
• Protein: 4g (7% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 2mg (2% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 90mg (7% Daily Value)
• Iron: 1mg (6% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 180mg (4% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

The Story Behind Banana Baked Oatmeal Cups

Banana baked oatmeal cups are a modern twist on two classic staples: oatmeal and banana bread. Their origin is rooted in the rise of convenient, grab-and-go breakfast options in the United States during the late 20th century. As people sought healthier alternatives to sugary pastries, combining nutrient-rich oats with naturally sweet bananas became a practical solution. This recipe reflects the evolution of home baking, where traditional breakfast cereals were transformed into portable, nutrient-dense treats suitable for busy mornings.

Regional Variations and Characteristics

While these baked oatmeal cups are popular across the U.S., certain regions have adapted them to local tastes. In the Northeast, recipes often include maple syrup and walnuts, adding a distinctly autumnal flavor. In Southern states, pecans and a hint of bourbon extract are sometimes incorporated to reflect the region's affinity for rich, nutty desserts. The West Coast favors a lighter, plant-based approach, using almond milk and vegan sweeteners. Despite these variations, the core concept remains the same: a soft, flavorful breakfast cup that balances sweetness with wholesome ingredients.

Distinguishing Features Compared to Similar Dishes

Banana baked oatmeal cups differ from traditional banana bread or standard baked oatmeal in texture and form. Unlike banana bread, which is typically dense and loaf-shaped, these oatmeal cups are lighter, airier, and portioned for individual servings. Compared to regular baked oatmeal, which is often served as a single pan dish, the muffin-like cups allow for easy sharing and transport. The addition of almond flour and sliced almonds creates a subtle crunch and enhanced flavor, setting them apart from simpler baked oatmeal recipes.

Typical Serving Occasions

These oatmeal cups are commonly served as a healthy breakfast option, particularly for families or in brunch settings. They are also popular for meal prepping, allowing people to enjoy a nutritious, ready-to-eat snack throughout the week. Cafs and coffee shops often include them in breakfast menus alongside yogurt and fresh fruit. Their portability makes them a favorite for office lunches, school snacks, and outdoor picnics, blending convenience with wholesome ingredients.

Interesting Facts and Tips

One fascinating fact is that using overripe bananas not only enhances natural sweetness but also improves the moisture and texture of the oatmeal cups. Almond flour, in addition to flavor, adds protein and helps bind the ingredients without making them overly dense. Some bakers experiment with mix-ins like dark chocolate chips, blueberries, or shredded coconut, offering endless variations while keeping the base recipe intact. Interestingly, these cups can be frozen and reheated, maintaining their soft texture, which makes them a practical choice for long-term meal planning.

FAQ about Banana Baked Oatmeal Cups Recipe