Banana Bread Overnight Oats Recipe

Cinnamon-Kissed Banana Bread Overnight Oats Recipe

Breakfast takes on a delightful twist with these creamy banana bread overnight oats that blend classic comfort with modern convenience.

Rich banana flavors mingle perfectly with hearty oats for a morning treat that feels like dessert.

The recipe captures the warm, nostalgic essence of homemade banana bread in a chilled, no-cook format.

Rolled oats soak up sweet banana and gentle spices overnight, creating a dreamy texture that melts in your mouth.

Each spoonful promises a balanced blend of nutrition and indulgence, packed with natural sweetness and satisfying protein.

Prepare this simple dish the night before and wake up to a delectable breakfast that requires zero morning effort.

You’ll start your day with a smile and a nourishing meal that feels like a hug in a jar.

Why Banana Bread Oats Are a Sweet Start

No complex cooking skills needed, making it perfect for busy mornings or beginner cooks.

  • Packed with wholesome ingredients like rolled oats, bananas, and walnuts, this recipe delivers a powerful nutritional punch. Enjoy a balanced meal that keeps you full and energized throughout the morning.
  • Experience the comforting taste of banana bread in a creamy, no-cook breakfast. The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and maple syrup creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that feels like a treat without the guilt.
  • Easily personalize this recipe by swapping ingredients or adding your favorite toppings. Whether you're craving extra protein, different nuts, or want to make it vegan, this versatile recipe welcomes creativity.

Ingredients in Banana Bread Overnight Oats

Base Ingredients:
  • Banana: A ripe banana provides natural sweetness and creates a creamy texture for the overnight oats.
  • Rolled Oats: The primary ingredient that forms the hearty base of the breakfast dish.
  • Milk: Helps to soften the oats and create a smooth, creamy consistency.
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Maple Syrup, Vanilla Extract: These ingredients add depth and sweetness to the overall flavor profile.
  • Cinnamon, Nutmeg: Warm spices that complement the banana and create a comforting taste.
  • Kosher Salt: Enhances and balances the other flavors in the dish.
Topping and Crunch:
  • Walnuts, Fresh Banana: Provide additional texture, crunch, and a layer of freshness to the overnight oats.

How to Prep Banana Bread Oats

Step 1: Mash the Banana

Take a ripe banana and thoroughly mash it at the bottom of a mason jar.

Create a smooth, creamy base that will infuse the entire dish with natural sweetness.

Step 2: Create the Overnight Mixture

Add the following ingredients to the jar:
  • Rolled oats
  • Milk
  • Chopped walnuts
  • Maple syrup
  • Vanilla extract
  • Cinnamon
  • Nutmeg
  • Kosher salt

Stir everything thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well combined and the oats are completely coated with the creamy mixture.

Step 3: Refrigerate and Wait

Seal the jar with a lid and place it in the refrigerator.

Let the mixture rest for 6 to 8 hours, allowing the oats to absorb the flavors and develop a luxurious, creamy texture.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

When ready to eat, top the oats with:
  • Fresh banana slices
  • Additional maple syrup drizzle

The final touches will elevate the breakfast, adding both visual appeal and an extra burst of flavor.

Savor your delightful morning meal that combines the comfort of banana bread with the convenience of overnight oats.

Tips for Better Banana Bread Oats

  • Overripe bananas work best, providing deeper sweetness and more intense banana taste for your overnight oats.
  • Adjust milk quantity based on preferred thickness – less milk creates thicker oats, more milk makes them runnier and smoother.
  • Sprinkle chia seeds or ground flaxseed for additional protein, fiber, and omega-3 fatty acids without changing the core recipe.
  • These overnight oats can be made up to 3-4 days ahead, making them perfect for meal prepping and busy mornings.
  • Keep sealed in the refrigerator and always consume within 4 days for optimal freshness and taste quality.

Storing Banana Bread Overnight Oats

  • Seal the overnight oats in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Ensure the jar is tightly closed to maintain freshness and prevent absorption of other food odors.
  • Transfer the oats to a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before consuming.
  • Pour the cold overnight oats into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to distribute warmth evenly. Add a splash of milk if the mixture seems too thick.
  • Enjoy the overnight oats straight from the refrigerator for a refreshing, chilled breakfast. Stir well and top with fresh banana slices and a drizzle of maple syrup just before serving.

Toppings to Add to Banana Bread Oats

  • Pair with Creamy Café au Lait: Brew a smooth, velvety French-style coffee with warm milk to complement the banana bread's rich, sweet profile and enhance the nutty walnut undertones.
  • Boost with Caramel Smoothie: Blend a chilled caramel protein smoothie alongside the overnight oats to add a luxurious, complementary sweetness that echoes the maple and banana flavors.
  • Elevate with Spiced Chai Latte: Steep a warming chai tea with steamed milk, matching the cinnamon and nutmeg notes in the oats while providing a comforting, aromatic beverage experience.
  • Refresh with Almond Milk Horchata: Pour a cold, creamy almond horchata to contrast the oats' warmth, offering a light, refreshing counterpoint that highlights the recipe's gentle spices.

Oatmeal Flavor Ideas with Banana Bread Vibes

  • Gluten-Free Banana Bread Overnight Oats: Replace rolled oats with certified gluten-free oats, ensuring those with gluten sensitivities can enjoy this delicious breakfast.
  • Vegan Banana Bread Overnight Oats: Swap dairy milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk. Use maple syrup as the sweetener and add a tablespoon of chia seeds for extra protein and creaminess.
  • Protein-Packed Banana Bread Overnight Oats: Mix in a scoop of vanilla protein powder or Greek yogurt to boost protein content. Top with additional chopped nuts or a sprinkle of hemp seeds for extra nutrition.
  • Low-Sugar Banana Bread Overnight Oats: Reduce maple syrup and use stevia or monk fruit sweetener. Add mashed dates or ripe banana for natural sweetness without spiking blood sugar levels.

FAQs

  • Is banana bread overnight oats healthy?

Yes, it’s a nutritious breakfast packed with fiber from oats, potassium from bananas, and protein from milk. The walnuts add healthy fats and extra nutrients, making it a balanced morning meal.

  • Can I use different types of milk?

Absolutely! You can substitute dairy milk with almond, oat, coconut, or soy milk. Each will slightly change the flavor but maintain the creamy texture of the overnight oats.

  • How ripe should the bananas be?

Use bananas with brown spots or very yellow bananas. These are sweeter and softer, which helps create a more flavorful and smooth banana bread taste in your overnight oats.

  • Do I need to heat the overnight oats before eating?

No, you can eat them cold straight from the refrigerator. If you prefer warm oats, you can microwave them for 30-45 seconds or let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before eating.

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Banana Bread Overnight Oats Recipe

Banana Bread Overnight Oats Recipe


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4.6 from 38 reviews

  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 2 1x

Description

Creamy banana bread overnight oats blend classic comfort with modern breakfast convenience. Sweet banana and warming cinnamon create a delightful morning treat packed with nutrients you’ll crave from first spoonful to last.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 medium banana, mashed
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) rolled dry oats
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk

Nuts and Sweeteners:

  • 2 tablespoons walnuts, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon maple syrup

Spices and Seasonings:

  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 pinch kosher salt

Instructions

  1. Mash a ripe banana thoroughly at the bottom of a mason jar, creating a smooth, sweet foundation for the overnight oats.
  2. Add rolled oats, milk, chopped walnuts, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and kosher salt to the jar. Stir meticulously until all ingredients are evenly distributed and oats are completely coated.
  3. Seal the jar with a tight-fitting lid and refrigerate for 6-8 hours. This resting period allows the oats to absorb liquid and develop a rich, creamy texture while melding the complex flavor profile.
  4. After chilling, remove from refrigerator and give a quick stir to redistribute any settled ingredients. Top with freshly sliced bananas and an optional maple syrup drizzle for added sweetness and visual appeal.
  5. Serve chilled, enjoying the harmonious blend of textures and flavors that transform simple ingredients into a nutritious and satisfying breakfast experience.

Notes

  • Swap dairy milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk for a vegan-friendly version that keeps the creamy texture and delightful banana bread flavors.
  • Enhance protein content by adding a scoop of vanilla protein powder or Greek yogurt, transforming this breakfast into a more substantial morning meal.
  • Customize toppings by experimenting with different nuts like pecans or almonds, or sprinkle chia seeds for extra nutrition and a delightful crunch.
  • Prep multiple jars in advance for a week of grab-and-go breakfasts, storing them in the refrigerator and enjoying a quick, nutritious start to your day.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Snacks
  • Method: Steeping
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2
  • Calories: 360
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 50mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 54g
  • Fiber: 8g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 5mg
Clara Thompson

Clara Thompson

Recipe Developer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Developing accessible single-serving recipes, Food writing and content creation, Plant-based and allergen-friendly cooking, Culinary education and workshop facilitation

Education

​Oregon Culinary Institute (Portland, OR)
Diploma in Culinary Arts

Specialized in plant-based cooking and sustainable kitchen practices.​

Portland Community College
Certificate in Food Writing and Media

Focused on recipe writing, food photography, and digital content creation.​


Clara’s food journey began with a curiosity for color, texture, and ingredients pulled straight from the garden. Her background in plant-forward cooking and creative writing gives her a unique edge – she makes healthy, flavorful food feel inviting, not intimidating.
She specializes in meals that work for busy lives and different diets, all without sacrificing taste. Clara’s voice comes through in every recipe she writes – clear, kind, and encouraging.

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