If you are looking for a cozy, wholesome breakfast that feels like a warm hug in every bite, this Strawberry Banana Baked Oatmeal Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender baked oats infused with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, juicy bursts of fresh strawberries, and a hint of chocolate chips melting in the background. Perfectly balanced, nourishing, and irresistibly comforting, this baked oatmeal will quickly become your go-to morning treat or satisfying snack that feels special yet simple to prepare.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its straightforward, wholesome ingredients that bring wonderful textures, flavors, and a lovely balance of natural sweetness and warmth.
- Mashed banana: About 1 cup from 3 medium ripe bananas gives creaminess and natural sweetness.
- Large eggs: 2 eggs help bind the mixture and add protein for a filling start to your day.
- Unsweetened vanilla almond milk: 1 ½ cups add moisture and subtle vanilla flavor without overpowering.
- Pure maple syrup (optional): 2 tablespoons, if you like your oatmeal a touch sweeter.
- Melted coconut oil: 2 tablespoons offer rich texture and a gentle tropical note.
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon enhances the sweetness and ties the flavors together.
- Old fashioned rolled oats: 2 ½ cups provide heartiness and a wonderfully chewy texture.
- Baking powder: 2 teaspoons give the baked oatmeal lightness and lift.
- Ground cinnamon: ½ teaspoon adds warm spice that complements the fruit perfectly.
- Kosher salt: ¼ teaspoon balances all the sweet flavors.
- Diced fresh strawberries: 1 cup bursts of juicy freshness throughout every bite.
- Mini chocolate chips: ¼ cup plus 2 tablespoons to sprinkle on top for melty pockets of chocolate delight.
How to Make Strawberry Banana Baked Oatmeal Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and preparing a 9×9 baking pan by spraying it with nonstick cooking spray. Setting the right oven temperature and prepping the pan ensures your oatmeal bakes evenly and releases effortlessly once done.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the mashed banana, eggs, almond milk, maple syrup (if using), melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract until mostly smooth. Combining these first creates a rich, flavorful base that infuses the oats with moisture and delightful sweetness.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients and Fold in Fruit
Next, add the rolled oats, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and kosher salt to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Then, gently fold in the fresh diced strawberries and mini chocolate chips, taking care not to mash the berries so they stay as vibrant bursts of flavor throughout your baked oatmeal.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pour the mixture into your prepared pan and smooth the top evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mini chocolate chips on top to create those irresistible melty pockets. Bake for 25 to 35 minutes, or until the edges turn a lovely golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean. Allow it to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing.
How to Serve Strawberry Banana Baked Oatmeal Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dollop of your favorite nut butter like almond or peanut on each slice adds creaminess and healthy fats, making each bite even more satisfying. Alternatively, a drizzle of honey or a spoonful of creamy vanilla yogurt adds a perfect cooling contrast to the warm baked oatmeal.
Side Dishes
Serve your Strawberry Banana Baked Oatmeal alongside fresh fruit salad or a handful of toasted nuts for crunch. A hot cup of coffee or spiced tea transforms this simple meal into a fulfilling breakfast experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For an inviting brunch, serve the baked oatmeal warm in cozy bowls topped with a splash of milk and extra fresh strawberries scattered on top. You can also cut it into bars for easy grab-and-go breakfast treats that are perfect for busy mornings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftover baked oatmeal in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 4 days, so you can enjoy quick, nutritious breakfasts throughout the week without extra effort.
Freezing
For longer storage, cut the baked oatmeal into individual portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and freeze for up to 2 months. This way, your Strawberry Banana Baked Oatmeal Recipe is always ready whenever you need a wholesome treat.
Reheating
Reheat portions in the microwave for about 30 to 60 seconds until warmed through. You can also pop them in the oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-15 minutes, which gives a lovely reheated texture that’s almost as good as fresh.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Replace the eggs with flax eggs or a commercial egg replacer and use plant-based milk and dairy-free chocolate chips to keep it entirely vegan without losing any deliciousness.
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen strawberries can be used but it’s best to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture, which can make the baked oatmeal soggy.
Is it possible to add other fruits?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with blueberries, raspberries, or chopped apples for different flavor profiles while still following the same base recipe.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, simply choose certified gluten-free rolled oats to ensure the dish meets gluten-free guidelines and is safe for those with sensitivities.
What’s the best way to sweeten this if I want it less sweet?
You can reduce or omit the maple syrup altogether since the bananas and strawberries provide lovely natural sweetness on their own.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Banana Baked Oatmeal Recipe is truly a gem for anyone who loves a nourishing, comforting breakfast that feels special but is easy to whip up any morning. With its perfect blend of fresh fruit, wholesome oats, and little chocolate surprises, I encourage you to give it a try. Once you have that first warm slice, I promise it will become a beloved recipe in your kitchen too.
Print
Strawberry Banana Baked Oatmeal Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This delicious Strawberry Banana Baked Oatmeal is a wholesome, comforting breakfast that’s easy to prepare and packed with natural sweetness from ripe bananas and fresh strawberries. Enhanced with a touch of vanilla, cinnamon, and dairy-free chocolate chips, it’s perfect for a nutritious morning meal that warms you up. Gluten-free and dairy-free options make it suitable for various dietary preferences.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup mashed banana (from about 3 medium ripe bananas)
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 ½ cups (360g) unsweetened vanilla almond milk (or substitute any dairy free milk)
- Optional: 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons melted and cooled coconut oil (or substitute melted butter or melted ghee)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups (238g) old fashioned rolled oats, gluten free if desired
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
Add-ins
- 1 cup diced fresh strawberries
- ¼ cup (45g) mini chocolate chips (dairy free if desired), plus 2 tablespoons for sprinkling on top
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9×9 inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, eggs, almond milk, maple syrup if using, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is mostly smooth and well combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Add the rolled oats, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and kosher salt to the wet mixture. Stir until everything is well incorporated.
- Fold in Fruit and Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the diced fresh strawberries and ¼ cup mini chocolate chips, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
- Transfer to Pan and Add Topping: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Evenly sprinkle the remaining 2 tablespoons of mini chocolate chips on top for a decorative and flavorful finish.
- Bake the Oatmeal: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-35 minutes, or until the edges start to turn slightly golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.
- Cool and Serve: Let the baked oatmeal cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before slicing into 6 pieces. Serve warm, optionally with a tablespoon of almond or peanut butter, or enjoy it in a bowl with milk or topped with vanilla yogurt.
Notes
- You can substitute almond milk with any dairy or non-dairy milk according to preference.
- Maple syrup is optional and can be omitted if you prefer less sweetness.
- For a vegan version, substitute eggs with flaxseed or chia egg and use vegan chocolate chips.
- Make sure to mash the bananas well for smooth batter texture.
- This baked oatmeal stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the microwave.
- Feel free to add nuts or seeds for extra crunch and nutrition.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
