These Blueberry Banana Baked Oatmeal Cups are a tasty and healthy breakfast option! They combine sweet bananas and juicy blueberries into easy-to-eat cups that are perfect for busy mornings.
I’m a big fan of making a batch ahead of time. They’re super handy to grab and go. Plus, they make my kitchen smell amazing while baking—nothing beats that cozy vibe! 🍌💙
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ripe Bananas: They add natural sweetness and moisture to the recipe. If you don’t have ripe bananas, you can try using unsweetened applesauce or mashed sweet potato as a substitute.
Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: These oats provide a chewy texture. Quick oats can work in a pinch, but they may make the cups a bit softer. For gluten-free needs, use certified gluten-free oats.
Milk: Any milk will do—dairy, almond, oat, or soy. I often use almond milk for its light flavor. For a creamier option, go with whole milk or coconut milk.
Blueberries: Fresh blueberries are delightful, but frozen ones are just as good! Just be aware they may release more juice, making the cups a bit moister. You could also swap them with other berries like raspberries or strawberries.
How Do I Ensure My Oatmeal Cups Are Moist and Not Dry?
Getting the right texture can be tricky. Here are a few tips to help keep your oatmeal cups moist:
- Don’t overbake! Keep an eye on them after the 25-minute mark, and remove them when they’re golden and set.
- Make sure your bananas are very ripe for maximum moisture and flavor.
- If using frozen blueberries, consider slightly reducing the egg or milk to account for the moisture they release.
Enjoy making and munching on these yummy cups! They are perfect for meal prep, and you can even switch up the fruits according to your preferences.
How to Make Blueberry Banana Baked Oatmeal Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Oatmeal Cups:
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 ½ cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries (plus extra for topping)
- Optional: nut butter or honey for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This simple recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 25-30 minutes to bake. You can have delicious and healthy oatmeal cups ready in under an hour—perfect for busy mornings or a quick snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line it with paper muffin liners to make cleanup easier!
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the old-fashioned rolled oats, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir everything together until evenly mixed.
3. Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, mash the ripe bananas until they are smooth. Add the egg, milk, vanilla extract, and maple syrup or honey. Whisk them together until nicely blended.
4. Combine Both Mixtures:
Next, pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients. Mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
5. Fold in the Blueberries:
Gently fold in the blueberries, saving a few to sprinkle on top of the cups. This adds a nice touch when baking.
6. Fill the Muffin Tin:
Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared muffin cups, filling each one about three-quarters full.
7. Add Toppings:
Sprinkle a few extra blueberries on top of each cup for a lovely presentation.
8. Bake the Oatmeal Cups:
Place the muffin tin into the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and set. You might want to check them around the 25-minute mark to avoid overbaking.
9. Cool and Remove:
Once baked, take the muffin tin out of the oven and let the cups cool slightly. Then, carefully remove them from the tin.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
If you’d like, drizzle some nut butter or honey on top before serving. These oatmeal cups can be enjoyed warm right away or stored in the refrigerator for an easy grab-and-go breakfast or snack throughout the week!
Enjoy your delicious Blueberry Banana Baked Oatmeal Cups! 🍌💙
Can I Use Almond Flour Instead of Oats?
Almond flour won’t work as a direct substitute in this recipe since oats provide the structure needed for these cups. If you’re looking for a gluten-free alternative, consider using gluten-free rolled oats or a combination of oats and almond flour, but keep in mind the texture will vary.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover oatmeal cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can reheat them in the microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, or enjoy them cold as a quick snack!
Can I Freeze These Oatmeal Cups?
Absolutely! These oatmeal cups freeze well. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What Other Mix-Ins Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative! You can mix in chopped nuts, seeds, or different fruits like chopped apples or peaches. Just be mindful of the moisture content, especially if adding juicier fruits.
