Peanut Butter Baked Oatmeal | The Picky Eater



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I enjoy making this peanut butter baked oatmeal with bananas and oats in 45 minutes for a healthy breakfast my family loves. With just 9 wholesome ingredients, it comes out rich and sweet while still nourishing, and I like that it can be made ahead for busy mornings and easily adapted to be vegan with one simple swap.

One slice of banana peanut butter baked oatmeal, garnished with banana slices, served on a white plate with a fork.

I make this peanut butter baked oatmeal all the time because my kids and husband are obsessed with everything peanut butter. Ha! Its creamy and nutty flavor with bananas and oats makes mornings easy and satisfying, kind of like my Baked Oats Without Banana. I love how the peanut butter gives my kids protein and healthy fats while keeping the oatmeal creamy, rich, and super flavorful. Yum!

This easy peanut butter baked oatmeal is a simple way to add essential nutrients while enjoying something that tastes like cake or banana bread. In my house, breakfast is a big part of our weekend routine, and we like sitting together and sharing updates from the week, so I usually make a big spread and include other favorites like my Vegan Blueberry Baked Oatmeal.

As a mom with active kids, I like getting them involved in the kitchen, just like when we made this easy peanut butter baked oatmeal together. It comes together in under an hour and is packed with protein and fiber from peanut butter, oats, and bananas, which helps make busy mornings easier.

My kids really enjoy mashing the ripe bananas while I whisk them with peanut butter and almond milk, and together it creates a creamy sweet base for the oats. This simple method keeps the baked oatmeal soft and full of flavor without adding extra sugar, while still offering protein, fiber, and nutrients. I like knowing each slice comes out rich and satisfying, not dry or bland like some baked oatmeal recipes I have made in the past. Ha!

I brought a batch of this baked oatmeal to a morning community clean up drive, and people kept coming back for more. It is a filling and balanced breakfast that I can make vegan or gluten free, and it is simple to prep at home. Try it this weekend and see how your family enjoys a wholesome breakfast that tastes indulgent πŸ™‚

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πŸ₯˜ Ingredients

To make this delicious Peanut Butter Baked Oatmeal I use these wholesome ingredients. I also provide some substitutions that work well too.

Ingredients for peanut butter banana baked oatmeal recipe on a white background.Ingredients for peanut butter banana baked oatmeal recipe on a white background.

Almond Milk: I use unsweetened almond milk to keep the baked oatmeal from getting too sweet.

Vanilla Extract: I always add pure vanilla extract to boost the flavor.

Bananas: I like using ripe bananas since they give the oatmeal great flavor and add fiber and nutrients.

Peanut Butter: I choose creamy or crunchy and I usually use natural peanut butter with just peanuts.

Egg: It helps the oatmeal hold together and adds protein, so it does not crumble when I slice it.

Rolled Oats: I use this for the best texture in this baked oatmeal.

Baking Powder: It helps the oatmeal rise in the oven and makes it light and fluffy.

Cinnamon: I use cinnamon to add warmth and balance the flavors, and it pairs so well with peanut butter and banana.

Maple Syrup: I sometimes add a little for extra sweetness when I want a sweeter version.

Substitutions

Sugar: I usually use maple syrup, but I sometimes swap in brown sugar or white sugar. To keep refined sugar free, I use coconut sugar or a little raw honey.

Different Oats: I stick with rolled oats, but I sometimes try quick oats. I avoid steel cut oats since they do not work well in this baked oatmeal.

Spice:Β  I sometimes add nutmeg, pumpkin pie spice, or allspice to change up the flavor. It is an easy way to make the baked oatmeal a little different each time.

πŸ”ͺ How To Make

Here is how I make the best peanut butter banana baked oatmeal recipe:

Preheat Oven, Mix Wet Ingredients: I preheat my oven to 350 degrees F or 180 C and spray an 8 by 8 baking dish with oil. In a large mixing bowl, I whisk together the almond milk, vanilla extract, maple syrup, mashed bananas, and peanut butter. Then I add the egg and whisk everything until it is smooth.

Wet ingredients for baked oatmeal mixed in a mixing bowl.Wet ingredients for baked oatmeal mixed in a mixing bowl.

Mix Dry Ingredients Into Wet: I add the remaining ingredients to the large bowl and stir everything together until it is well combined.

Oats, peanut butter and spices mixed in a bowl.Oats, peanut butter and spices mixed in a bowl.

Spread Mix: I pour the mixture into my prepared baking dish and spread it out in an even layer.

PB banana baked oats in a baking dish ready to go into the oven.PB banana baked oats in a baking dish ready to go into the oven.

Bake Oats and Serve: I bake the oatmeal in a preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes until a skewer comes out clean and the top looks golden brown. Then I let it cool and set for 20 to 25 minutes before slicing. I like to serve it with whipped coconut cream, banana slices, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a sprinkle of toasted almonds.

Banana peanut butter baked oats fresh out the oven, in a white baking dish.Banana peanut butter baked oats fresh out the oven, in a white baking dish.

My #1 Secret Tip for this recipe is to use overripe bananas. I look for bananas with lots of brown spots because they add natural sweetness and help the baked oatmeal stay moist and hold together better once it is baked.

Other Tips To Keep In Mind:

  • Avoid Sticking: I make sure to grease my pan well so the baked oatmeal does not stick. I usually use cooking spray or a little coconut oil to coat it evenly.
  • Make Individual Portions: I like to make individual portions by spreading the mixture evenly into a lined muffin tin. This way I have grab-and-go breakfasts ready for the week.
  • Good Consistency: If my mixture seems too thick, I add a little milk to thin it out. For a creamier texture, I sometimes use oat flour instead of whole oats, which makes it smoother and easier to scoop.

πŸ“– Variations

I like to switch things up with this baked oatmeal by trying different toppings, mix-ins, or flavor combinations.

Chocolate Banana Boost: I mix in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to add extra sweetness. The chocolate melts into the oatmeal creating a comforting breakfast I enjoy.

Berry Peanut Delight: I fold in 1 cup of fresh or frozen berries for a fruity flavor. This version adds a fresh pop and natural sweetness to every bite.

Apple Cinnamon Warmth: I stir in 1 chopped apple and a teaspoon of cinnamon for a cozy spiced flavor. The oatmeal comes out tender with little pockets of baked apple I love.

🍽 Serving Suggestions

My favorite way to serve this peanut butter banana baked oatmeal is on a plate with a drizzle of peach simple syrup and fresh fruit like sliced bananas, caramelized bananas, or fresh berries.Β 

For a sweeter breakfast or dessert, I sometimes pair it with my homemade mango nice cream or drizzle with vegan nutella. So good! I also enjoy it as a warm treat after dinner with a splash of milk.

🧊 Storage Directions

Refrigerating: I let my leftover peanut butter baked oatmeal cool completely to room temperature. Then I transfer it to an airtight container or cover the pan securely with plastic wrap. I store it in the fridge, and it keeps well for up to 5 days.

Freezing: I do not freeze this baked oatmeal since the texture changes when it thaws, and it does not hold together as well. I prefer storing it in the fridge and reheating portions as needed.

Reheating: I enjoy this baked oatmeal cold or warm. If I want it warm, I microwave a portion for about 20 seconds or heat it in the toaster oven until it is heated through.

❓Recipe FAQs

Why did my baked oatmeal turn out too wet?

When my baked oatmeal turns out too wet, I usually check the bananas and milk. I make sure the bananas are ripe but not overly mushy and measure the milk carefully. I also spread the mixture evenly in the pan so it bakes uniformly.

Why did it crumble when I cut it?

I know the egg is key for holding the oatmeal together, so I never skip it or use too little. I whisk it well into the wet ingredients before mixing in the oats to make sure the structure is firm.

Why did the top not brown?

I pay attention to the oven temperature and pan placement. I preheat to 350 degrees and bake on the center rack. If the top is not golden, I leave it a few extra minutes until a skewer comes out clean.

One slice of peanut butter baked oatmeal, garnished with banana slices, served on a white plate with a fork.One slice of peanut butter baked oatmeal, garnished with banana slices, served on a white plate with a fork.

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πŸ“‹ Recipe Card

Peanut Butter Baked Oatmeal

I enjoy making this peanut butter baked oatmeal with bananas and oats in 45 minutes for a healthy breakfast my family loves. With just 9 wholesome ingredients, it comes out rich and sweet while still nourishing, and I like that it can be made ahead for busy mornings and easily adapted to be vegan with one simple swap.

Prep Time5 minutes

Cook Time30 minutes

Total Time35 minutes

Course: Breakfast, Brunch

Cuisine: American, Vegan, vegetarian

Diet: Gluten Free, Vegan, Vegetarian

Servings: 9 squares

Calories: 167kcal

  • My #1 Secret Tip for this recipe is to use overripe bananas. I look for bananas with lots of brown spots because they add natural sweetness and help the baked oatmeal stay moist and hold together better once it is baked.
  • Avoid Sticking: I make sure to grease my pan well so the baked oatmeal does not stick. I usually use cooking spray or a little coconut oil to coat it evenly.
  • Make Individual Portions: I like to make individual portions by spreading the mixture evenly into a lined muffin tin. This way I have grab-and-go breakfasts ready for the week.
  • Good Consistency: If my mixture seems too thick, I add a little milk to thin it out. For a creamier texture, I sometimes use oat flour instead of whole oats, which makes it smoother and easier to scoop.

Serving: 1square | Calories: 167kcal | Carbohydrates: 25g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.002g | Cholesterol: 18mg | Sodium: 94mg | Potassium: 245mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 8g