There’s something truly special about the sweet aroma of bananas wafting through the kitchen, mingling with the warm, inviting scents of cinnamon and oats. This Gluten Free & Dairy Free Banana Baked Oatmeal is a delightful blend of textures, with a golden top that bakes to perfection and a moist, comforting interior that warms your soul. Every bite offers a lovely balance of sweetness and a nutty crunch, making it a staple in my kitchen for cozy breakfasts and lazy weekend brunches.
I’ve found that this dish comes together surprisingly fast, making it perfect for those busy mornings when you want something wholesome without the fuss. The best part? It’s incredibly versatile—you can whip it up for a family gathering or enjoy it as a meal prep option that keeps well in the fridge for days.
WHY I LOVE GLuten Free & Dairy Free Banana Baked Oatmeal
This Gluten Free & Dairy Free Banana Baked Oatmeal hits that sweet spot between healthy and delicious! It’s incredibly easy and undeniably satisfying, with that rich banana flavor complemented by wonderful chocolatey notes. Plus, it looks elegant enough to impress guests, yet simple enough for a weekday morning. It’s a true winner at my table!
GLuten Free & Dairy Free Banana Baked Oatmeal INGREDIENTS
The magic of this Gluten Free & Dairy Free Banana Baked Oatmeal truly lies in its harmonious blend of wholesome ingredients. Don’t worry about exact measurements just yet; those are all in the recipe card for you!
Essential Components
- ROLLED OATS: The base of our dish, these are the stars! They provide a chewy texture and serve as the perfect canvas for blending flavors.
- RIPE BANANAS, MASHED: Naturally sweet and full of moisture, they infuse the oatmeal with a delightful taste and soft texture.
- PURE MAPLE SYRUP: A little drizzle enhances the sweetness without overpowering, making it a lovely alternative to refined sugars.
- ALMOND MILK (or any dairy-free milk): This creamy goodness keeps the oatmeal moist without any dairy, ensuring everyone can enjoy it.
- CHOCOLATE CHIPS: Because who doesn’t love a little chocolate? These tiny gems pack a mighty punch of richness.
- SHREDDED COCONUT: Offering a tropical hint and a fun chew, it’s a little twist that elevates every bite.
- CHOPPED WALNUTS: They add a satisfying crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of bananas beautifully.
- VANILLA EXTRACT: A splash of this aromatic essence rounds out the flavor and adds a touch of warmth.
- BAKING POWDER: This is key to giving our oatmeal a nice rise, making it fluffy rather than dense.
- CINNAMON: This beloved spice infuses our dish with warmth and a comforting aroma.
- SALT: Just a pinch to bring all the flavors together, enhancing the overall deliciousness.
SUBSTITUTIONS AND TIPS
Need a swap? If you don’t have almond milk on hand, any dairy-free milk works beautifully (coconut milk gives a richer flavor). You could also switch out the walnuts for pecans or any nut of your choice for a little variety. In a pinch, honey can replace the maple syrup, though it won’t be quite as rich in flavor. Feel free to play with other add-ins like dried fruits or seeds to make it your own!
KITCHEN TOOLS YOU’LL NEED
- Medium-sized mixing bowls (2)
- Baking dish (9×9 inch works well)
- Fork (for mashing bananas)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Cooking spray or grease brush
HOW TO MAKE GLuten Free & Dairy Free Banana Baked Oatmeal
Let’s dive into creating this delightful Gluten Free & Dairy Free Banana Baked Oatmeal. I’ve broken down the process into simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time. We’re aiming for that beautifully baked, golden topped oatmeal that makes mornings feel special.
Preheat and Prepare
First, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your baking dish so the oatmeal doesn’t stick—trust me, it’s a great start!
Mix the Dry Ingredients
Next, in a large bowl, combine the ROLLED OATS, BAKING POWDER, CINNAMON, and SALT. This mix will serve as the foundation of our baked oatmeal, ensuring every bite is evenly flavored.
Combine the Wet Ingredients
Now, in another bowl, toss together the MASHEDED RIPE BANANAS, ALMOND MILK, MAPLE SYRUP, and VANILLA EXTRACT. You’ll want to mash the bananas well to avoid any chunky bits, creating a smooth, luscious base.
Merge It All Together
Once your wet ingredients are well blended, pour them into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Give it a good stir until everything is just combined—no need to overmix!
Fold in the Goodies
Next, fold in the CHOCOLATE CHIPS, SHREDDED COCONUT, and CHOPPED WALNUTS. This is where it gets exciting! You want those chocolatey bits and crunchy nuts beautifully distributed.
Spread and Bake
Spread the mixture evenly in your prepared baking dish. Every corner should be filled with that yummy goodness! Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden and set. The top should be slightly crisp while the interior remains warm and moist.
Cool and Serve
Finally, allow to cool slightly before serving. It’s best enjoyed warm, but I won’t blame you if you sneak a piece right out of the oven. You can even store some in the freezer for later—just reheat and savor!
HOW TO STORE GLuten Free & Dairy Free Banana Baked Oatmeal
Leftovers maintain their delicious quality beautifully! You can store them at room temperature for up to a day (but seriously, they won’t last that long!). In the refrigerator, keep them in an airtight container for 3–4 days. For longer storage, pop them in the freezer for about 2–3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven or microwave.
TIPS FOR SUCCESS
- Make sure your bananas are very ripe—this adds natural sweetness!
- Don’t overmix once you combine wet and dry ingredients; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
- Allow it to cool slightly before slicing; it will hold together better!
- Feel free to add spices like nutmeg or ginger for an extra flavor boost.
- Consider doubling the batch; it freezes well for easy breakfasts!
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
- Serve warm with a dollop of coconut yogurt for a creamy touch.
- Top with fresh fruit like berries or sliced bananas for a vibrant burst.
- A drizzle of extra maple syrup is always a welcome indulgence!
- Pair with a warm cup of herbal tea or your favorite coffee blend.
- Enjoy alongside a handful of nuts for some added crunch and protein.
And there you have it—a delightful way to enjoy breakfast that’s both satisfying and wholesome! I hope you find as much joy in baking and sharing this delicious Gluten Free & Dairy Free Banana Baked Oatmeal as I do!
