Banana Oat Yogurt Bake

Name: Banana Oat Yogurt Bake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 1 1/2 cups plain yogurt; 3 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips (optional)

Highlighted under: Clean Healthy Meals Recipes

I love starting my day with a wholesome breakfast, and this Banana Oat Yogurt Bake has become one of my go-to recipes. It's packed with fiber from oats and the natural sweetness of ripe bananas makes it a treat that feels indulgent yet nutritious. I also enjoy how easy it is to prepare; just mix the ingredients, pour them into a baking dish, and let the oven do the work. The end result is a deliciously creamy bake that's perfect for meal prep or a cozy breakfast with family.

Created by

Amelia Roberts

Last updated on 2026-01-15T16:49:42.973Z

When I first mastered this Banana Oat Yogurt Bake, it felt like a revelation. The combination of oats and yogurt creates a rich and satisfying texture that's hard to resist. The bananas not only add flavor but also natural sweetness, which means I can enjoy it without extra sugar. I often serve this warm, topped with fresh fruit or a drizzle of honey.

The best part? It's incredibly customizable! I love adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or a handful of dark chocolate chips on top before baking. This slight twist elevates the flavor profile and it has become a hit whenever I serve it at gatherings.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Nutritious ingredients that keep you full for longer
Simple to make with minimal cleanup
Great for batching and enjoying throughout the week

      

Ingredient Insights

The star of this Banana Oat Yogurt Bake is undoubtedly the bananas. They not only serve to sweeten the dish but also contribute to its moist texture. Ripe bananas are crucial; the more spotty and brown they are, the sweeter and more flavorful the bake will be. If you find yourself with overripe bananas, this recipe is a perfect use, as they add natural sweetness without refined sugars.

Another important ingredient is plain yogurt, which contributes to the creamy texture of the bake. Greek yogurt can be used here for a thicker consistency, which also adds a protein boost. If you're looking for dairy-free alternatives, coconut yogurt or almond-based yogurt can work as substitutes while still providing a similar creaminess.

Baking Techniques

Mixing the ingredients properly is key to achieving the right texture. You want everything well combined but be careful not to overmix, which can make the bake dense. Aim for a smooth mixture that holds together easily, yet still has a slight thickness from the oats. This will create a lovely, cohesive bake after it cooks in the oven.

When baking, the optimal cooking time is about 30 minutes, but keep an eye on it in the last few minutes. Look for a golden brown top and a firm texture around the edges. Using a toothpick to test for doneness can be helpful; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Banana Oat Yogurt Bake can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for any meal. Try topping it with a dollop of extra yogurt and fresh fruit for added flavor and nutrition. I particularly love adding sliced strawberries or blueberries, which complement the sweetness of the bananas beautifully.

For variations, consider adding spices such as nutmeg or cardamom for an aromatic touch. You can also experiment with different mix-ins like dried fruits or seeds, which will not only change the flavor profile but also add variety in texture. If you're aiming for a dessert-like treat, adding a handful of chocolate chips can transform this bake into a delightful indulgence.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Banana Oat Yogurt Bake

2 cups rolled oats
1 1/2 cups plain yogurt
3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, yogurt, mashed bananas, milk, honey, vanilla, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until well combined.

Add Nuts or Chocolate Chips

If desired, fold in the chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the mixture.

Bake and Cool

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for about 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.

Serve

Serve warm or at room temperature, topped with additional yogurt or fruit if desired.

Pro Tips

For a vegan version, substitute honey with maple syrup and use plant-based yogurt and milk.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Banana Oat Yogurt Bake is an excellent make-ahead option. You can prepare it the night before and simply bake it in the morning, allowing for a hassle-free breakfast. If you'd like, the mixed ingredients can also be stored in the refrigerator overnight before baking, which can enhance the flavor as the oats will absorb moisture and expand.

For storage, this bake keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. When you're ready to enjoy it, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds, or until warmed through. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Just slice the bake into portions, wrap them tightly, and store in the freezer for up to three months.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your bake turns out too dry, it could be due to overbaking or using very dry oats. Make sure to check doneness around the 25-minute mark and adjust the time as needed. Alternatively, adding a bit more yogurt or milk can help achieve a moister texture, especially if you're using older oats that may absorb more liquid than fresh ones.

On the other hand, if the center remains too wet after the recommended baking time, leave it in for an additional 5 minutes, checking frequently for doneness. An oven thermometer can be useful to ensure your oven heats accurately, as often home ovens can vary in temperature.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling this recipe is simple if you're feeding a crowd or want to meal prep for the week. Doubling the recipe is straightforward; just use a larger baking dish to accommodate the increased volume. Keep in mind, larger bakes may require a few extra minutes in the oven, so monitor closely for that golden top and clean toothpick test.

You can also make smaller batches by halving the ingredients. This is particularly handy if you want to try different flavor combinations with each bake. Using a muffin tin instead of a baking dish can also work, resulting in individually portioned servings that are perfect for on-the-go breakfasts.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, but the texture may be slightly different. Rolled oats give a heartier consistency.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

→ Can I freeze this bake?

Absolutely! Cut it into portions and freeze them for easy breakfasts on-the-go.

→ What other fruits can I add?

You can add berries, chopped apples, or even a handful of raisins for added sweetness.