This wholesome and naturally sweetened Blueberry Banana Oatmeal Bake is a perfect choice for breakfast, snacks, or a healthy dessert. Packed with juicy blueberries, ripe bananas, and hearty oats, this easy-to-make recipe provides energy, fiber, and antioxidants. It’s versatile, delicious, and ideal for meal prep or feeding a crowd.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- Oatmeal: 1 cup (90 g)
- Bananas: 2 ripe (approximately 200 g)
- Vanillin: A pinch (or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract)
- Hot Water: ⅔ cup (158 ml)
- Blueberries: 1 cup (150 g)
- Avocado Oil: 1 tablespoon, for drizzling
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease or line a baking dish with parchment paper.
- Prepare Ingredients: Mash the bananas in a bowl until smooth.
- Combine Oatmeal and Water: In a mixing bowl, combine the oatmeal and hot water. Let it sit for a minute to soften the oats.
- Mix Ingredients: Add the mashed bananas and a pinch of vanillin (or vanilla extract) to the softened oats. Mix well.
- Fold in Blueberries: Gently fold in the blueberries, ensuring even distribution.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Drizzle with Oil and Bake: Drizzle avocado oil over the top and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until golden and set.
- Cool and Serve: Allow to cool for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a splash of almond milk.
- Pair with fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries for a vibrant addition.
- Drizzle with honey or maple syrup for added sweetness.
- Top with crushed nuts or seeds for extra crunch.
- Enjoy as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla yogurt.
Cooking Tips
- Use overripe bananas for maximum natural sweetness.
- Substitute avocado oil with coconut oil or melted butter for a flavor variation.
- Add 1 tablespoon of chia or flax seeds for a nutritional boost.
- Mix in a handful of chopped nuts for added texture and protein.
- Ensure the oatmeal mixture is evenly spread for consistent baking.
Nutritional Benefits
- Oatmeal: High in fiber and keeps you full longer.
- Bananas: Provide potassium, natural sweetness, and energy.
- Blueberries: Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C.
- Avocado Oil: Adds healthy monounsaturated fats.
Dietary Information
- Vegan: Contains no animal products.
- Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free oats.
- Refined Sugar-Free: Sweetened naturally with fruits.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 3 g
- Fat: 5 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Sugar: 8 g
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze individual portions in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5–10 minutes or in the microwave until heated through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy mornings or meal prep.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
- Naturally Sweetened: No added sugar, just the sweetness of bananas and blueberries.
- Versatile: Enjoy as breakfast, a snack, or dessert.
- Family-Friendly: A dish everyone will love, even picky eaters.
Conclusion
Blueberry Banana Oatmeal Bake is a deliciously simple recipe that brings together natural sweetness and wholesome ingredients for a versatile dish. Its soft texture, juicy blueberries, and comforting flavors make it a satisfying treat any time of day. Whether enjoyed warm or chilled, this oatmeal bake is a nutritious and flavorful addition to your meal rotation. Try it today and enjoy its goodness!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen blueberries? Yes, frozen blueberries work well; no need to thaw them before mixing.
- Can I replace avocado oil? Yes, use melted coconut oil, butter, or any neutral-flavored oil.
- What can I substitute for vanillin? Use vanilla extract or omit it altogether.
- Is this dish suitable for meal prep? Absolutely! Store portions in the fridge or freezer for grab-and-go meals.
- Can I add nuts to the mixture? Yes, chopped nuts like walnuts, pecans, or almonds make great additions.
- How do I make this dish nut-free? Simply omit nuts and ensure your ingredients are nut-free.
- Can I make this gluten-free? Yes, use certified gluten-free oats.
- What other fruits can I use? Replace blueberries with chopped apples, raspberries, or strawberries.
- Can I make this sugar-free? It already is! The sweetness comes from the bananas and blueberries.
- How can I make this recipe more filling? Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of chia seeds for extra protein and fiber.