If you are searching for a breakfast treat that feels like a warm hug first thing in the morning, then look no further than this delightful Banana Chocolate Chip Baked Oatmeal Cups Recipe. These little baked gems are packed with naturally sweet bananas, cozy cinnamon, and melty pockets of dark chocolate chips, all nestled in a wholesome oat base. They are just perfect for a grab-and-go morning or a sweet snack that satisfies without any guilt. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll quickly become your go-to recipe for easy, nutritious indulgence!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the harmony of flavors and textures each ingredient brings. Every item is thoughtfully chosen to create moist, tender oatmeal cups that are perfectly sweetened and wonderfully textured.
- 1 cup mashed bananas: Ripeness is key here for natural sweetness and moisture that binds everything together.
- â…” cup milk: Use any milk you prefer; it adds just the right amount of creaminess.
- 2 large eggs: These give structure and richness; see notes for easy substitutions.
- 2 tbsp oil: A neutral oil like vegetable or melted coconut helps keep the oats tender and moist.
- ¼ cup runny honey: Adds subtle sweetness and a lovely golden color.
- 2 cups oats: The hearty base of the dish – rolled oats work best for texture.
- 1 tbsp brown sugar: Enhances the depth of sweetness and contributes a hint of caramel flavor.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Brings warmth and a fragrant spice that pairs beautifully with banana.
- 1 pinch ground nutmeg: Optional but highly recommended for a cozy, subtly nutty note.
- ¼ tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and highlights all flavors.
- â…“ cup dark chocolate chips: The star treat that melts into little pockets of joy.
- â…“ cup chopped walnuts: Adds crunch and a slight earthiness that contrasts the sweetness.
How to Make Banana Chocolate Chip Baked Oatmeal Cups Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Equipment
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and greasing a 12-cup muffin tin. If you prefer, silicone liners are a great non-stick alternative that helps the cups come out cleanly. This first step sets you up perfectly for successful baking without any sticking or mess.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the mashed banana, milk, eggs, oil, and honey. This combination provides moisture, sweetness, and the right consistency. The bananas naturally sweeten and tenderize the cups while the eggs and milk help everything blend into a smooth batter ready for oats and flavorings.
Step 3: Combine with Dry Ingredients
Now add your oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, chocolate chips, and walnuts all at once into the wet mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly until the oats absorb the liquids and the chocolate and nuts are evenly distributed. The mixture should be thick but scoopable with a slight stickiness that bodes well for baking fluffy, moist oatmeal cups.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Divide the batter evenly between the muffin cups and gently shake the pan to level everything out. You can bake them right away or cover the pan and refrigerate overnight for an easy make-ahead breakfast. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until the tops turn a beautiful light golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The result is cozy, chocolaty bites packed with wholesome oats and banana goodness.
How to Serve Banana Chocolate Chip Baked Oatmeal Cups Recipe
Garnishes
For a little extra flair, top these oatmeal cups with a sprinkle of cinnamon, a drizzle of honey, or a dollop of Greek yogurt. These simple touches enhance flavor and add freshness to each bite.
Side Dishes
Serve warm oatmeal cups alongside fresh fruit, a small bowl of mixed berries, or a cup of your favorite coffee or tea. These pairings create a balanced and satisfying breakfast or snack experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Transform your serving style by breaking a cup into a bowl and topping with sliced bananas, nut butter, or even a splash of milk for a deconstructed oatmeal parfait. Perfect for those who love a bit of texture and variety with each spoonful.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, simply cool the Banana Chocolate Chip Baked Oatmeal Cups completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for up to five days to keep them fresh and moist.
Freezing
These oatmeal cups freeze brilliantly! Wrap each cup individually in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They keep well for up to three months, making them an excellent option for meal prep or emergencies.
Reheating
To enjoy your frozen or refrigerated oatmeal cups, reheat in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds or until warmed through. You can also pop them in a toaster oven to revive some crispness on the edges—absolute perfection.
FAQs
Can I use gluten-free oats for this recipe?
Absolutely! Use certified gluten-free rolled oats to enjoy this Banana Chocolate Chip Baked Oatmeal Cups Recipe if you need a gluten-free option. The texture and flavor remain just as delightful.
What can I use instead of eggs?
If you prefer not to use eggs, flax or chia seed “eggs” work great here. Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed or chia seeds with 3 tablespoons of water per egg and let it sit until gelled before mixing it into the wet ingredients.
Are these oatmeal cups suitable for a kid’s lunchbox?
Yes! These cups are packed with wholesome ingredients and little chunks of chocolate for a treat kids will love. They are easy to handle and mess-free, making them a practical lunchbox favorite.
Can I add other mix-ins besides chocolate and walnuts?
Feel free to customize! Dried fruit, shredded coconut, or seeds like pumpkin or sunflower can add unique textures and flavors to your oatmeal cups.
How sweet are the Banana Chocolate Chip Baked Oatmeal Cups?
They have a natural sweetness from the bananas and honey, balanced by the slight bitterness of dark chocolate. If you like things sweeter, you can add an extra tablespoon of brown sugar or drizzle with maple syrup before serving.
Final Thoughts
This Banana Chocolate Chip Baked Oatmeal Cups Recipe has become such a beloved staple in my kitchen, and I’m confident it will be in yours too. It’s simple, wholesome, and filled with flavors that bring comfort and joy from the very first bite. Whether you’re looking for a filling breakfast, a quick snack, or something to prep ahead, these oatmeal cups check every box. Give them a try and prepare to fall in love — your mornings will thank you!
Print
Banana Chocolate Chip Baked Oatmeal Cups Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 oatmeal cups
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Banana Chocolate Chip Baked Oatmeal Cups are a wholesome and delicious breakfast treat that’s easy to make and perfect for meal prep. Made with ripe bananas, oats, and a touch of honey, these baked oatmeal cups are packed with flavor and texture, featuring melty dark chocolate chips and crunchy walnuts. They’re naturally sweetened, nutritious, and a great grab-and-go option for busy mornings.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup mashed bananas (about 2 large)
- â…” cup milk (use milk of your choice)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp oil (mild/neutral such as vegetable or melted coconut oil)
- ¼ cup runny honey
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups oats
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 pinch ground nutmeg (optional)
- ¼ tsp salt
Add-ins
- â…“ cup dark chocolate chips
- â…“ cup chopped walnuts
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line it with silicone liners to prevent sticking.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, milk, eggs, oil, and honey until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Add dry ingredients: Add the oats, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, chocolate chips, and chopped walnuts to the wet mixture. Stir everything together thoroughly until well combined.
- Fill muffin cups and bake: Divide the mixture evenly among the 12 muffin cups. Gently shake the tin to level the batter in each cup. You can either cover and refrigerate the batter overnight or bake immediately for 15-20 minutes, or until the tops turn lightly golden brown.
Notes
- Use rolled oats for best texture; quick oats can be used but will produce a softer cup.
- For a vegan version, substitute eggs with flax eggs and use a plant-based milk and maple syrup instead of honey.
- Store baked oatmeal cups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Add your favorite nuts or dried fruits for variation.
