If you’re searching for a delicious morning boost that’s as satisfying as it is nutritious, this High-Protein Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine the comforting flavors of classic banana bread combined with the wholesome texture of baked oatmeal, all packed with protein to fuel your day. It’s a perfect blend of creamy bananas, warm cinnamon, and hearty oats that makes breakfast both indulgent and energizing. Once you try this recipe, it’ll quickly become your go-to meal for busy mornings or cozy weekend brunches.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the quality of its ingredients. Each one is carefully chosen to deliver not only amazing flavor but also the perfect texture and a nutritional punch that keeps you full longer.
- 2 cups rolled oats: Use old-fashioned oats for the best texture, giving this dish a hearty chew that quick oats just can’t provide.
- â…“ cup unflavored or vanilla protein powder: This boosts the protein content, making the oatmeal a satisfying meal that supports muscle health.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and a subtle spice that elevates the banana flavor beautifully.
- 2 large eggs: These bind the ingredients together and add richness to the final baked oatmeal.
- 2 medium ripe bananas, mashed: Naturally sweet and moist, they make the dish irresistibly tender.
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup: Adds a gentle sweetness with a touch of complexity and depth.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor, bringing out the sweetness in the bananas and cinnamon.
- 1½ cups milk of choice: Whether dairy or plant-based, milk creates the creamy base and hydrates the oats during baking.
- ¼ cup hemp hearts: These tiny seeds provide a subtle nutty flavor and extra protein and healthy fats.
- Optional: ¼ cup chocolate chips: For those who love a hint of chocolate, these add delightful pockets of sweetness.
How to Make High-Protein Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the baking dish is ready for your mixture, and you’ll get that perfect golden finish. Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup and effortless serving later.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together the rolled oats, protein powder, and ground cinnamon. This dry blend is the base that brings in fiber and nutrients along with the warming aromatic spice that will make your kitchen smell heavenly.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, mashed bananas, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth. This smooth mixture is what keeps the oats tender and infuses every bite with banana goodness and natural sweetness.
Step 4: Blend Wet and Dry
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients and stir gently to combine. Then fold in the hemp hearts and chocolate chips if you’re using them. This step is where flavors mingle and the batter takes shape, ready to become your delicious baked oatmeal.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Bake for about 30 minutes until the center sets firmly and the edges turn a lovely golden color. The smell alone will have you eagerly awaiting your breakfast.
Step 6: Cool and Slice
Allow the baked oatmeal to cool in the dish for around 20 minutes before cutting into squares. Serving it warm enhances its comforting texture and flavor, making it feel like a warm hug on a plate.
How to Serve High-Protein Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal Recipe
Garnishes
Add a dollop of Greek yogurt, a drizzle of honey, or a sprinkle of extra cinnamon or chopped nuts on top for a delightful crunch and extra creaminess. Fresh berries also add a bright, colorful pop and an inviting tartness that pairs well with the sweet, dense oatmeal.
Side Dishes
This baked oatmeal pairs beautifully with a simple side of fresh fruit or a handful of toasted nuts. If you want to add even more protein, serve it alongside a boiled egg or a smoothie for a perfectly balanced meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut your baked oatmeal into neat squares and serve stacked on a plate, lightly dusted with powdered sugar or cocoa powder. You can even top each piece with a small scoop of vanilla or cinnamon-spiced ice cream for a dessert-like treat that’s still wholesome.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After baking, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days, making it a fantastic meal prep option for busy weekdays. Keep it chilled to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezing
If you want to make a larger batch, you can freeze individual squares wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe container or bag. This way, you can enjoy your High-Protein Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal Recipe anytime you want without any extra effort.
Reheating
Reheat slices in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds or warm them in a toaster oven until heated through. This restores that freshly baked warmth and keeps the texture soft yet firm—a perfect quick breakfast.
FAQs
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
While you technically can, rolled oats work best for this recipe because they hold their texture better and give the baked oatmeal a nice, chewy bite that quick oats can’t replicate.
What type of protein powder is best to use?
Unflavored or vanilla protein powder is ideal so it doesn’t overpower the banana and cinnamon flavors. Whey, pea, or soy protein powders all work well depending on your preference.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make it vegan, substitute the eggs with flax eggs or a commercial egg replacer and use a plant-based milk. Keep in mind the texture might be slightly different but still delicious.
How ripe should the bananas be?
The riper, the better! Overripe bananas with those dark spots bring more natural sweetness and moisture, enhancing the overall flavor and softness of the baked oatmeal.
Is it possible to omit the sweetener?
Yes, you can reduce or omit the maple syrup if you prefer a less sweet dish, especially if your bananas are very ripe. The recipe will still hold together well thanks to the protein powder and eggs.
Final Thoughts
This High-Protein Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal Recipe is such a wonderful way to start your day with genuine flavor and nourishing ingredients. Whether you’re fueling up for a busy morning or looking for a cozy weekend treat, it offers a warm, comforting, and protein-packed meal everyone will love. Trust me, once you make this, you’ll find yourself reaching for it again and again.
Print
High-Protein Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This High-Protein Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal is a nutritious and delicious breakfast option combining hearty rolled oats, ripe bananas, and protein powder for a filling start to your day. Baked to perfection with warming cinnamon and optional chocolate chips, this dish offers a comforting texture similar to banana bread but with the wholesome benefits of oats and added protein.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats (not quick oats)
- â…“ cup unflavored or vanilla protein powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 2 medium ripe bananas, mashed
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1½ cups milk of choice (dairy, soy, or other non-dairy alternative)
Add-ins
- ¼ cup hemp hearts
- Optional: ¼ cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, thoroughly mix together the rolled oats, protein powder, and ground cinnamon ensuring even distribution of flavors.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, mashed bananas, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and your choice of milk until the mixture is smooth and homogenous.
- Mix Together: Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients and stir gently to combine everything. Fold in the hemp hearts and chocolate chips if using, ensuring they are evenly spread throughout.
- Bake: Transfer the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 30 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges turn a nice golden color.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the baked oatmeal to cool in the dish for about 20 minutes. Once cooled, cut into squares and serve warm. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Notes
- You can substitute maple syrup with honey or agave nectar for sweetness.
- To make this recipe vegan, replace eggs with flax eggs and use non-dairy milk.
- For extra texture, consider adding chopped nuts or dried fruits.
- Ensure your protein powder is unflavored or vanilla to maintain the recipe’s balance.
- The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out mostly clean.
