Description
A simple and nutritious recipe for Overnight Oatmeal with creamy rolled oats soaked overnight combined with the natural sweetness and smooth texture of caramelized bananas. This recipe offers a healthy, customizable, and convenient breakfast option that’s easy to prepare ahead, perfect for busy mornings or relaxed weekends.
Ingredients
Scale
Oatmeal Base
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup milk or milk alternative (dairy, almond, oat, coconut, etc.)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional)
Caramelized Bananas
- 2 ripe bananas, peeled and sliced
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon butter or coconut oil (for sautéing)
Optional Toppings & Variations
- Almond or peanut butter (for nut butter boost)
- Chopped nuts, granola, or toasted seeds (for crunch)
- Additional spices like nutmeg, cardamom, or ginger
- Fresh fruit or honey drizzle for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Caramelized Bananas: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add butter or coconut oil, then sprinkle in brown sugar or drizzle maple syrup. Add sliced ripe bananas and sauté gently for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and caramelized. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Mix the Oatmeal Base: In a mixing bowl or jar, combine rolled oats, milk or milk alternative, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and optional chia seeds. Stir thoroughly to evenly coat oats and distribute chia seeds.
- Assemble Overnight: Layer or gently fold the caramelized bananas into the oat mixture. Seal the container or jar tightly and refrigerate overnight to allow the oats to absorb the liquid and develop a creamy texture.
- Serve and Enjoy: In the morning, stir the oatmeal to blend flavors evenly. Add optional toppings like fresh fruits, nuts, granola, or a drizzle of honey to enhance flavor and texture, then serve immediately.
Notes
- Use ripe bananas for the best caramelization and natural sweetness.
- Choose thicker milk (whole or creamy plant-based) for extra creaminess.
- Adjust the amount of brown sugar or maple syrup to control sweetness.
- Watch the bananas carefully while caramelizing to avoid burning or over-softening.
- Layer cinnamon and vanilla both in the oats and on bananas for consistent flavor.
- Can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing is not recommended as it alters the texture of oats and bananas.
- Reheat gently in a microwave or saucepan, adding a splash of milk if needed.
- Use gluten-free oats if gluten intolerance is a concern.
- For a vegan version, substitute dairy milk with plant-based options and use maple syrup instead of brown sugar if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: No-Bake, Stove-top
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1/2 recipe)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 14 g
- Sodium: 60 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 58 g
- Fiber: 8 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg
Keywords: overnight oatmeal, caramelized bananas, healthy breakfast, gluten free, vegan, easy breakfast, meal prep, creamy oats