Banana oatmeal cups are a tasty and healthy treat. Made with ripe bananas and oats, they’re perfect for breakfast or a snack. Plus, they are easy to grab on the go!
These little cups are like sunshine in a muffin! I love how you can add nuts or chocolate chips for a fun twist. Making them is so simple; just mix, scoop, and bake!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bananas: Ripe bananas are essential for natural sweetness and flavor. If you don’t have ripe ones, you can place them in a paper bag for a day or two to speed up ripening. You can also use unsweetened applesauce as a substitute, though it changes the flavor slightly.
Rolled Oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats give the best texture. If you have quick oats, they work too, but they result in softer cups. For a gluten-free option, use certified gluten-free oats.
Milk: Any milk works here! I often use almond milk for a nutty flavor, but dairy or oat milk is just as good. If you’re dairy-free, stick with plant-based options.
Egg: The egg binds everything together. If you’re vegan, try using flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) for a similar effect.
Cinnamon: A warm touch! If cinnamon isn’t your favorite, try nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice for a different flavor profile.
What’s the Best Way to Mash Bananas for This Recipe?
Mashing bananas is an important step for adding natural sweetness and moisture. Here’s how to do it easily:
- Use a fork or a potato masher for a smooth mixture; this ensures even distribution.
- Make sure your bananas are very ripe for maximum sweetness and flavor.
- If you’re in a hurry, you can also blend them using a food processor for a quick mash.
Remember to mash them well for the best texture in your oatmeal cups! Enjoy making these simple, tasty treats!
Banana Oatmeal Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Optional toppings: banana slices, extra oats, nuts, or honey
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and about 20-25 minutes to bake, plus a little cooling time. In total, set aside about 40 minutes to make and enjoy your delicious Banana Oatmeal Cups!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready for your cups to bake evenly.
2. Prepare the Muffin Tin:
Lightly grease a muffin tin with some cooking spray or line it with paper liners to make removing the cups easier after baking.
3. Mash the Bananas:
In a large mixing bowl, use a fork to mash the ripe bananas until they are smooth. The riper the bananas, the sweeter the cups will be!
4. Mix Wet Ingredients:
Add the egg, milk, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Stir until everything is well mixed and combined.
5. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, mix together the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.
6. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir gently until everything is fully combined, making sure not to overmix.
7. Fill the Muffin Tin:
Scoop the mixture evenly into the muffin tin cups, filling each one about three-quarters full to allow for rising.
8. Add Toppings:
If you like, top each cup with a few banana slices or a sprinkle of extra oats for added texture and flavor.
9. Bake the Cups:
Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are set and lightly golden. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
10. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, allow the cups to cool in the tin for a few minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Enjoy these wholesome, naturally sweetened banana oatmeal cups for a nourishing breakfast or snack!
Can I Use Different Types of Milk for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use any type of milk you have on hand, whether it’s dairy milk, almond milk, oat milk, or any other plant-based alternative. Just choose what you prefer!
Can I Make These Oatmeal Cups Without an Egg?
Yes, you can! To replace the egg, use 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes to thicken. This will help bind the ingredients together.
How Should I Store the Leftovers?
Store any leftover banana oatmeal cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They can also be frozen for longer storage; just thaw them in the fridge before enjoying.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Mix?
Definitely! Feel free to add mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits to customize your oatmeal cups. Just keep an eye on the total volume so the mixture doesn’t overflow the muffin tin.