If you’re looking for a wholesome breakfast that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, you’ll adore this Banana Bread Overnight Oats Recipe. It perfectly captures the comforting flavors of banana bread but with the ease and nutrition of overnight oats, making mornings something to truly look forward to. Creamy oats mingled with ripe banana, a hint of cinnamon, and crunchy nuts create a delightful texture and taste that is both satisfying and nourishing.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple yet carefully chosen ingredients work together beautifully to create the perfect balance of creaminess, sweetness, and crunch. Each one plays an important role in the texture, flavor, or nutritional boost of this Banana Bread Overnight Oats Recipe.
- 1/2 mashed ripe banana: The star ingredient, providing natural sweetness and moisture that mimics banana bread’s beloved flavor.
- 1/2 cup rolled oats (regular or gluten free): The hearty base that softens overnight for a creamy, satisfying bite.
- 1/2 cup milk of choice: Adds the perfect creaminess; use dairy or any plant-based milk to suit your preference.
- 2 tablespoons chopped pecans or walnuts: Offers a toasty crunch and a boost of healthy fats.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the sweetness and depth, like a whisper of bakery goodness.
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon: Brings warmth and that quintessential banana bread spice.
- Dash of sea salt: Balances the flavors so nothing is too sweet or flat.
- 1 tablespoon ground flax (optional): Packs extra fiber and nutrition without changing the flavor.
- 2 teaspoons 100% pure maple syrup: Adds a gentle, natural sweetness and the faintest caramel notes.
You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.
How to Make Banana Bread Overnight Oats Recipe
Step 1: Mash and Mix
Start by mashing the ripe banana at the bottom of a bowl or a jar with a sealable lid. The banana provides both the natural sweetness and creamy texture we want in our overnight oats. Next, add the rolled oats, milk, chopped nuts, vanilla extract, cinnamon, sea salt, ground flax (if using), and maple syrup. Stir everything together until the ingredients are evenly combined. This simple step brings all those wonderful flavors and textures together.
Step 2: Refrigerate and Transform
Cover the container and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight. This resting period allows the oats to soak up all the flavors and soften beautifully. The oats transform into a creamy and luscious consistency while the cinnamon and vanilla infuse their warm aroma throughout the mixture.
Step 3: Garnish and Enjoy
When you’re ready to dig in, give your Banana Bread Overnight Oats Recipe a quick stir. For an extra special touch, top it with some freshly sliced banana or an extra handful of nuts. You can enjoy it cold straight from the fridge or warm it up if you prefer a cozy, heated breakfast treat.
How to Serve Banana Bread Overnight Oats Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing is where this Banana Bread Overnight Oats Recipe truly shines. Freshly sliced banana, a sprinkle of chopped nuts, or even a drizzle of creamy almond butter adds texture and visual appeal. A dusting of cinnamon on top finishes it off perfectly, making your oats look as inviting as they taste.
Side Dishes
This breakfast keeps it simple, but pairing it with a handful of fresh berries or a dollop of Greek yogurt can balance the sweetness and add a refreshing contrast. A cup of your favorite morning tea or coffee complements the recipe’s comforting flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your banana bread overnight oats in a mason jar layered with granola and fresh fruit for a parfait effect. You can also freeze individual portions in small containers for grab-and-go breakfasts. Presentation matters, and a glass jar or pretty bowl makes the experience feel extra special, perfect for weekend brunch or a nourishing treat any day.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Banana Bread Overnight Oats Recipe is excellent for meal prep since it keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent any absorption of fridge odors.
Freezing
You can freeze your prepared overnight oats in individual portions to enjoy at a later date. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge and add any fresh garnishes as needed. Keep in mind the texture may be slightly softer after freezing but still delicious.
Reheating
If you prefer your oats warm, transfer the desired portion to a microwave-safe bowl and heat for 30 to 60 seconds, stirring halfway through. You can also warm them gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to reach your preferred consistency.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of milk in this recipe?
Absolutely! Whether you prefer almond milk, oat milk, cow’s milk, or anything else, this recipe is very adaptable and will taste great with your favorite choice.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Just use plant-based milk and ensure your maple syrup is pure to keep this Banana Bread Overnight Oats Recipe fully vegan friendly.
Can I prepare more than one serving at a time?
Definitely. You can multiply the ingredient amounts to make several servings that can be stored individually in jars for an easy breakfast throughout the week.
What if I don’t like nuts?
No problem! You can omit the nuts or substitute with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for a different crunch without compromising taste.
How long can I store the overnight oats before they spoil?
Typically, overnight oats stay fresh for up to 3 days when refrigerated in a sealed container. Beyond that, the texture and flavor may start to deteriorate.
Final Thoughts
If you love the cozy flavors of banana bread but want a quick and nutritious breakfast, the Banana Bread Overnight Oats Recipe should be your new go-to. It’s simple, nourishing, and endlessly comforting, making mornings a breeze without sacrificing taste or health. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite way to start the day!
PrintBanana Bread Overnight Oats Recipe
This Banana Bread Overnight Oats recipe is an easy and nutritious make-ahead breakfast that combines the flavors of banana bread with creamy oats. Perfect for busy mornings, it’s naturally sweetened with maple syrup and packed with wholesome ingredients like nuts, cinnamon, and ground flaxseed. Simply mix and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, then enjoy a delicious, no-cook meal that can be served hot or cold.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1/2 mashed ripe banana
- 1/2 cup rolled oats (regular or gluten free)
- 1/2 cup milk of choice
Flavorings and Add-ins
- 2 tablespoons chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Dash of sea salt
- 1 tablespoon ground flax (optional)
- 2 teaspoons 100% pure maple syrup
Instructions
- Mash and Combine: Mash the ripe banana in the bottom of a bowl or jar that can be sealed. Add the rolled oats, milk, chopped nuts, vanilla extract, cinnamon, sea salt, ground flaxseed (if using), and maple syrup. Stir everything well to combine thoroughly.
- Refrigerate: Seal the container tightly and refrigerate overnight or for at least 4 hours to allow the oats to soak and flavors to meld together.
- Serve and Garnish: When ready to eat, you can enjoy the oats cold straight from the fridge or warm them up if preferred. Garnish with additional sliced banana or more chopped nuts for an extra touch of flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use gluten free rolled oats to make the recipe gluten free.
- Milk of choice can be dairy or any plant-based alternative such as almond, oat, or soy milk.
- The ground flaxseed adds extra fiber and omega-3 fatty acids but is optional.
- Adjust the sweetness by increasing or decreasing the maple syrup.
- Overnight oats can be prepared in individual jars for easy grab-and-go breakfasts.
- This recipe is suitable for a vegetarian diet.