Strawberry Banana Baked Oatmeal

Name: Strawberry Banana Baked Oatmeal
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 2 bananas, sliced; 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced; 2 cups milk (or non-dairy alternative); 2 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Highlighted under: Fresh & Healthy

I absolutely love starting my mornings with a wholesome and flavorful breakfast, and nothing beats the joy of making Strawberry Banana Baked Oatmeal. This dish combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with the tartness of fresh strawberries, creating a delightful taste experience. I enjoy experimenting with textures, and baking oatmeal gives it a comforting, chewy quality while the fruits provide moisture and brightness. Packed with nutrients and easily customizable, it's the perfect way to fuel my day while satisfying my sweet tooth.

Created by

Piper Andrews

Last updated on 2026-02-01T15:13:36.215Z

When I first tried making baked oatmeal, I didn't realize how much depth and warmth it would bring to my breakfast table. The combination of ripe strawberries and bananas makes each bite feel like a cozy hug. The best part? I can prepare it the night before and simply pop it in the oven in the morning. That's a game-changer for busy weekday mornings!

I learned that using oats not only makes the dish hearty but also keeps me full longer. To elevate the flavor, I sometimes sprinkle a bit of cinnamon on top before baking, enhancing the overall aroma. Don’t skip out on those additions; they really make a difference!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The natural sweetness of bananas and strawberries make this a guilt-free dessert or breakfast.
It’s a make-ahead dish, allowing busy mornings to remain stress-free.
The warm, comforting taste provides a delightful way to enjoy whole grains.

Ingredient Insights

The combination of rolled oats, bananas, and strawberries serves not only for taste but also for texture and nutrition. Rolled oats are a great source of whole grains, providing sustained energy throughout the morning. The bananas contribute natural sweetness and creaminess, while strawberries add a refreshing tartness that balances the dish. If you’re looking to alter sweetness levels, you could easily swap maple syrup with agave nectar or honey, depending on your dietary preferences.

In addition to the oats and fruits, the choice of milk—be it dairy or a non-dairy alternative—can significantly influence the flavor profile. Almond milk adds a subtle nutty note, while coconut milk lends a richer creaminess. Consider using unsweetened versions, especially if you prefer to control the overall sweetness of the dish. This choice not only affects taste but also the final consistency of the baked oatmeal.

Baking Techniques

Achieving the perfect texture in baked oatmeal relies on balancing wet and dry ingredients. When mixing, be careful not to over-stir; otherwise, the oats may become mushy instead of maintaining a slight chew. Look for a well-blended mixture that still shows some individual pieces of fruit. Ensure your baking dish is greased adequately to prevent sticking; a light coating of olive oil or butter will suffice.

During baking, you’ll want to keep an eye out for visual cues. The oatmeal should puff up and the top should turn a lovely golden brown, which usually takes around 30 minutes at 350°F (175°C). If you find the edges browning too quickly, you can cover the dish with foil to prevent burning while the center finishes cooking. This additional step can save your dish from becoming overly dry around the edges.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delightful baked oatmeal:

Ingredients

2 cups rolled oats
2 bananas, sliced
1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 cups milk (or non-dairy alternative)
2 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Make sure everything is fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Strawberry Banana Baked Oatmeal:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Mix Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Add the sliced bananas and strawberries to the mixture.

Add Wet Ingredients

Pour in the milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until well combined.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the oatmeal mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly and sprinkle the chopped nuts on top if using.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!

Pair with a drizzle of additional maple syrup or a dollop of yogurt for an extra treat!

Pro Tips

Using overripe bananas intensifies the sweetness of the dish. Feel free to substitute with your favorite fruits like blueberries or apples. If you want it sweeter, adjust the maple syrup to your taste.

Make-Ahead Tips

One of the fantastic aspects of Strawberry Banana Baked Oatmeal is how well it lends itself to meal prep. Prepare the oatmeal mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator overnight. In the morning, simply pour it into your baking dish and pop it in the oven. This way, you can enjoy a warm and hearty breakfast without the morning rush.

If you want to make it even easier, consider freezing individual portions. Allow the baked oatmeal to cool completely, cut it into squares, and store them in airtight containers. When you're ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through, which takes about 10-12 minutes from frozen at 350°F (175°C).

Customizations and Variations

Feel free to get creative with your baked oatmeal! You can swap out strawberries for other berries like blueberries or raspberries. You can also add a handful of dark chocolate chips for a decadent twist or mix in a scoop of protein powder for added nutrition. If you’re looking for a nut-free option, try using sunflower seeds or shredded coconut instead of nuts to maintain that crunchy texture on top.

For a spicier profile, consider adding a dash of nutmeg along with the cinnamon. This warming spice will enhance the overall flavor and provide depth. Additionally, if you enjoy a creamier consistency, experiment with adding an extra splash of milk just before baking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare the mixture the night before?

Absolutely! Just cover it and refrigerate, then bake it in the morning.

→ Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, but the texture may be softer. Rolled oats provide a chewier consistency.

→ How long can leftovers be stored?

You can store baked oatmeal in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this baked oatmeal?

Yes! Once cooled, wrap it tightly and it can last up to 3 months in the freezer.