Peanut Butter Banana Baked Oatmeal Cups

These Peanut Butter Banana Baked Oatmeal Cups are perfect for anyone seeking a nutritious, quick breakfast option. They are not only delicious but also full of wholesome ingredients. Great for meal prep, these oatmeal cups can be enjoyed on busy mornings or as a healthy snack throughout the day. Their sweet banana flavor and creamy peanut butter make them a standout choice!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: These oatmeal cups come together in just a few simple steps, making breakfast hassle-free.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Bake a batch and store them in the fridge or freezer for quick breakfasts all week long.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with rolled oats, bananas, and natural peanut butter, they provide sustained energy.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or mix-ins like nuts or seeds for extra flavor.
• Gluten and Dairy Free: Enjoy these baked oatmeal cups without worrying about gluten or dairy restrictions.

Tools and Preparation

To make the process smooth and efficient, gather your tools before you start cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Muffin tin
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Whisk or spoon
• Non-stick spray

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin tin: Essential for shaping your oatmeal cups into perfect portions.
• Mixing bowls: Needed for combining wet and dry ingredients effectively.
• Measuring cups: Important to ensure accurate ingredient quantities for consistent results.

Ingredients

These Peanut Butter Banana Baked Oatmeal Cups combine wholesome ingredients to create a tasty and healthy breakfast treat.

Dry Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 tsp baking powder

Wet Ingredients

• 1 large banana (mashed)
• 1/2 cup natural peanut butter
• ¼ cup honey
• 1 egg
• 1 cup milk of choice

Toppings

• 12 banana slices for topping
• Peanut butter for drizzling

How to Make Peanut Butter Banana Baked Oatmeal Cups

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, prepare your muffin tin by spraying it with non-stick spray.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine:
1. Rolled oats
2. Salt
3. Baking powder

Stir well until evenly mixed.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another medium-sized bowl, mash the banana thoroughly. Add:
1. Natural peanut butter
2. Honey

Mix until smooth. Stir in one egg until combined.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with dry ingredients. Then add:
– Milk of choice

Mix everything together until well combined.

Step 5: Bake the Oatmeal Cups

Scoop the mixture into your prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 25 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Allow the oatmeal cups to cool slightly before removing them from the muffin tin. Top with additional banana slices and drizzle with peanut butter before serving.

Step 7: Store Leftovers

These oatmeal cups can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or frozen for longer storage. Enjoy them any time you need a quick snack!

How to Serve Peanut Butter Banana Baked Oatmeal Cups

These Peanut Butter Banana Baked Oatmeal Cups make for a delicious and versatile breakfast option. You can enjoy them in various ways to suit your taste preferences or nutritional needs.

Top with Fresh Fruits

• Banana Slices: Add extra banana slices on top for added sweetness and texture.
• Berries: Fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add a burst of flavor and color.

Drizzle with Toppings

• Peanut Butter: A drizzle of peanut butter enhances the nutty flavor and adds creaminess.
• Honey or Maple Syrup: A light drizzle of honey or maple syrup can elevate the sweetness.

Pair with Yogurt

• Greek Yogurt: Serve alongside Greek yogurt for a protein boost and creamy contrast.
• Dairy-Free Yogurt: For a dairy-free option, coconut or almond-based yogurt works beautifully.

Enjoy Warm or Cold

• Warm: Serve them warm right out of the oven for a cozy breakfast.
• Cold: Refrigerate and eat them cold as a refreshing snack or breakfast on-the-go.

How to Perfect Peanut Butter Banana Baked Oatmeal Cups

Creating the perfect Peanut Butter Banana Baked Oatmeal Cups is easy with a few simple tips. Follow these suggestions to enhance your baking experience.

• Bold use ripe bananas: Using ripe bananas will provide natural sweetness and better flavor.
• Bold adjust sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of honey based on your preference for sweetness.
• Bold experiment with milk alternatives: Try different milk options like almond, soy, or oat milk for varied flavors.
• Bold ensure even baking: Make sure to fill each muffin cup evenly for uniform baking.
• Bold store properly: Keep these oatmeal cups in an airtight container to maintain freshness for longer.

Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter Banana Baked Oatmeal Cups

To complement your Peanut Butter Banana Baked Oatmeal Cups, consider pairing them with these delightful side dishes. They will round out your meal perfectly!

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and nutrition.
2. Nut Butter Toast: Whole-grain toast spread with almond or cashew butter offers added protein.
3. Smoothie Bowl: A vibrant smoothie bowl topped with granola and nuts provides a refreshing side.
4. Chia Seed Pudding: Creamy chia pudding made with plant-based milk keeps it light yet filling.
5. Veggie Sticks with Hummus: Crisp veggies paired with hummus create a crunchy contrast.
6. Coconut Yogurt Parfait: Layer coconut yogurt with granola and fruits for a satisfying treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Peanut Butter Banana Baked Oatmeal Cups, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the oats: Not using rolled oats can lead to a different texture. Stick to rolled oats for the best results.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make the oatmeal cups dense. Stir just until combined for a lighter texture.
• Neglecting to preheat: Baking without preheating can affect cooking time and texture. Always preheat your oven to ensure even baking.
• Ignoring portion sizes: Filling muffin tins too full can cause overflow. Use a standard scoop to maintain consistent sizes and avoid mess.
• Forgetting toppings: Skipping the banana slices and peanut butter drizzle can miss out on extra flavor. Always finish with these delicious toppings for added appeal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing.

Freezing Peanut Butter Banana Baked Oatmeal Cups

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Reheating Peanut Butter Banana Baked Oatmeal Cups

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat for 30 seconds at a time until warm, usually about 1-2 minutes.
• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Peanut Butter Banana Baked Oatmeal Cups?

Peanut Butter Banana Baked Oatmeal Cups are a healthy breakfast option made with oats, banana, and peanut butter, baked into convenient cups.

Can I make Peanut Butter Banana Baked Oatmeal Cups vegan?

Yes! Substitute the egg with a flaxseed egg or applesauce to make it vegan-friendly.

How do I customize my Peanut Butter Banana Baked Oatmeal Cups?

You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits according to your preference for extra flavor and texture.

How long do Peanut Butter Banana Baked Oatmeal Cups last?

They last up to 5 days in the fridge or up to 3 months in the freezer when stored properly.

Final Thoughts

These Peanut Butter Banana Baked Oatmeal Cups are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with various add-ins like nuts or seeds. Perfect for meal prep, they make a great grab-and-go breakfast option!