Wake up to these yummy, eat to make Banana Overnight Oats! This delicious refrigerator oatmeal tastes just like your favorite banana bread ... it's the perfect way to start your day!
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If you've hung around here for a while, you probably know that I LOVE an easy breakfast. My mornings are always hectic, but breakfast is non-negotiable for me, no matter how busy I am ... I just can't face the day on an empty stomach!
Which is why this delicious Banana Overnight Oats has become a go-to meal around here. Simply prep these easy oats at night, then grab and go in the morning. It really doesn't get much easier or more delicious!
I've experimented with lots of oatmeal flavors, but these Banana Nut Overnight Oats are definitely a favorite! The taste is reminiscent of banana bread, which makes them feel like a breakfast treat. And what morning isn't better with a little treat?
And if you're into meal prep, you'll be happy to know that you can make multiple jars of these tasty oats in advance. Perfect for an easy make ahead breakfast.
Ready to try this easy recipe for yourself? You'll find all the details below, so keep reading!
Ingredients
This recipe is made with simple, wholesome ingredients ... you probably already have most of them in your pantry! Here's what you'll need:
- Oats - For the best results, use old-fashioned rolled oats for this recipe. Instant and steel cut oats won't work as well.
- Bananas - Of course, fresh bananas are the star ingredient here.
- Milk - Choose your favorite milk, regular or plant based.
- Maple Syrup - Delicious maple syrup adds the perfect amount of sweetness. This recipe is lightly sweetened, however you can easily add more or less syrup to taste. You may also use honey, brown sugar, or other sweeteners, if you prefer.
- Vanilla - A little vanilla extract adds another layer of flavor.
- Cinnamon - A little cinnamon is the perfect finishing touch that adds a tasty, classic flavor. Leave it out (or add other spices) if you prefer.
- Nuts - I used walnuts here, but other nuts (such as pecans or almonds) will also work great. The nuts are optional, so skip them if you prefer.
- Salt - Don't forget a pinch of salt! It brings out all the other flavors. I prefer to use kosher salt.
This recipe is naturally vegetarian and gluten free. If you have an allergy, make sure to choose oats that are specifically labeled gluten-free to avoid the possibility of cross contamination.
To make vegan overnight oats, simply use your favorite dairy free milk, such as almond, coconut, or soy milk.
You'll Also Need
To prepare this recipe, you'll also need a jar, small bowl, or another food container with a lid. Mason jars are perfect for this, because they have a reusable lid and are easy to transport. I used these cute jam jars for these photos, however a 12-ounce mason jar or a standard 16-ounce mason jar (pint jar) is more versatile and will hold more toppings.
How to Make Banana Overnight Oats
So let's talk about how to make this Banana Oats recipe! You'll find a detailed recipe card below, but here's an overview of the steps:
- Combine ingredients. Grab a clean mason jar (or another container with a lid). Add the oats, milk (regular or dairy-free), mashed banana, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt to the jar. Mix well.
- Refrigerate. Cover your container, then refrigerate overnight.
- Add toppings. In the morning, top the oats with sliced banana and chopped walnuts.
And that's all there is to it ... breakfast is served! I usually make a few jars of this Banana Overnight Oatmeal at a time. That way my breakfast is set for a few days.
If you know that your morning will be rushed, you can add the banana-walnut topping at night. Just don't add the toppings more than a day ahead of time. Otherwise, your bananas might turn brown.
Tip: There's no wrong way to eat overnight oats, but I usually enjoy them cold. If you prefer your Banana Overnight Oats hot, simply warm them in the microwave for a few seconds before eating.
Whether you enjoy this Banana Bread Overnight Oats hot or cold, this is one breakfast recipe your whole family is sure to love. And the best part (aside from their delish taste), is that this easy recipe takes just minutes to make!
Variations
Feel like experimenting with this recipe? Here are some easy ideas:
- Peanut Butter - Add a tablespoon of peanut butter (or another nut butter) when mixing the ingredients together.
- Fruit - Need to clean out your fridge? Top the oats with other fruits, such as blueberries or strawberries, along with the bananas.
- Nut - I used walnuts, but other nuts (such as almonds, pecans, pistachios, etc.) will all work great.
- Chocolate - Why not treat yourself by stirring in some chocolate chips or chunks? Yum! A swirl of Nutella would be delish, too.
- Chia Seeds - These popular seeds are popular mix-in. To add them, stir in one tablespoon chia seeds, plus 3 extra tablespoons milk.
- Yogurt - Give your oats an extra-creamy twist by adding a dollop of Greek yogurt.
Storage
Store the oats in an airtight jar or covered bowl in your refrigerator. They will stay fresh and taste best when eaten within two to three days. To keep the banana slices from browning, add them must before serving.
Related Recipes
If you enjoyed this easy breakfast, make sure to check out my other overnight oatmeal recipes, too!
- Easy Overnight Oats - This classic recipe is so simple to make and endlessly versatile. Just add your fave toppings!
- Overnight Oats with Yogurt
- Apple Overnight Oats
- Raspberry Overnight Oats
- Almond Joy Overnight Oats
- Banana Overnight Oats
- Strawberry Overnight Oats
- Cranberry Orange Overnight Oats
- Pumpkin Overnight Oats
- Blueberry Overnight Oats
- Mango Overnight Oats
Craving a hot breakfast? Then check out my Blueberry Banana Baked Oatmeal ... so delish, packed with fresh fruit, and easy to make!
And if this banana bread-inspired recipe has you craving a slice of the real thing, then check out my Chocolate Chip Banana Bread, Strawberry Banana Bread, Chocolate Banana Bread, or Blueberry Banana Bread recipes!
Banana Overnight Oats
Ingredients
- ½ cup old-fashioned rolled oats (not instant or quick-cooking)
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ banana, mashed
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup
- ⅛ teaspoon vanilla extract
- dash cinnnamon
- pinch kosher salt
For Serving:
- ¼ banana, sliced
- 2 teaspoons chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Combine oats, milk, mashed banana, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt in a mason jar. Mix well.
- Cover oats and refrigerate overnight or for at least four hours.
- To serve, top oats with sliced banana and walnuts. Enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
