Banana Oatmeal Breakfast Muffins

Name: Banana Oatmeal Breakfast Muffins
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 muffins
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 cup rolled oats; 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based); 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup vegetable oil or melted coconut oil; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; Optional: chocolate chips or nuts for topping

Highlighted under: Oven-Fresh Wonders

I absolutely adore starting my day with a warm, flavorful breakfast, and these Banana Oatmeal Breakfast Muffins fit the bill perfectly. Not only are they easy to make, but they are also packed with wholesome ingredients that keep me fueled throughout the morning. The combination of ripe bananas and hearty oatmeal creates a delightful texture and flavor that I can't resist. Plus, they make for a perfect grab-and-go option on busy mornings!

Created by

Hayley Morton

Last updated on 2026-02-10T22:06:36.785Z

Making these Banana Oatmeal Breakfast Muffins was a great experience for me. I had some overripe bananas sitting on my counter that were begging to be used, so I decided to combine them with oats for a nutritious breakfast option. The banana naturally sweetens the muffins, which meant I could reduce the added sugar and keep them healthier while still satisfying my sweet tooth.

During the baking process, I discovered that adding a touch of cinnamon really enhances the flavor. It brings warmth to each bite, making them not only delicious but also comforting. Plus, these muffins store well in the fridge, so I always have a healthy breakfast ready to go.

Why You'll Love These Muffins
Moist and tender texture with a hint of banana sweetness
Nutritious oats that keep you full and energized
Perfect for meal prep or a quick breakfast on the go

The Role of Bananas and Oats

The star ingredients of these muffins are ripe bananas and rolled oats, which lend both moisture and nutrition. The natural sugars in bananas enhance sweetness without the need for excessive added sugars, making them a healthier choice. Aim for bananas that are overripe for maximum sweetness and a softer texture, which will be crucial in creating that irresistibly moist muffin.

Rolled oats provide a heartiness that contrasts with the tender banana base. They also offer soluble fiber, which can help you feel fuller longer. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can pulse the oats in a blender for a minute before adding them to the dry ingredients. This will still keep the health benefits intact while adjusting the mouthfeel to be more cake-like.

Baking Tips for Perfect Muffins

When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until you see no dry flour. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins, contrary to the light and fluffy texture you're aiming for. A light hand not only retains the muffins' tenderness but also helps maintain the structure, allowing them to rise beautifully while baking.

Make sure your oven is properly preheated to 350°F (175°C). An oven thermometer can be handy to ensure accuracy, as baking times may vary based on your specific oven. Look for golden brown edges and a risen dome at the center as signs of doneness. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your muffins.

Muffin Ingredients

2 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup vegetable oil or melted coconut oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Optional: chocolate chips or nuts for topping

Make sure to measure your ingredients precisely for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bake your muffins.

Preheat your oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it well.

Mix the wet ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, milk, honey (or maple syrup), vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix well until smooth.

Combine dry ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.

Combine wet and dry

Pour the dry ingredients into the banana mixture and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Fill the muffin tin

Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full. If desired, sprinkle chocolate chips or nuts on top.

Bake the muffins

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and serve

Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy!

These muffins are best enjoyed warm but can also be stored in an airtight container for later.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider folding in some chopped nuts or dried fruit into the batter before baking.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Banana Oatmeal Breakfast Muffins store wonderfully, making them ideal for meal prep. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container and keep them at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing them; they freeze well for about three months.

To enjoy a muffin from the freezer, simply take it out the night before and let it thaw in the refrigerator. For a quick warm-up, microwave individual muffins for 20-30 seconds until heated through, or pop them in a toaster oven for a few minutes to restore some crispness.

Variations to Try

While the classic recipe is delicious, you can easily customize these muffins to suit your taste or dietary needs. For a nutty flavor and added crunch, consider stirring in a quarter cup of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans. If you're a chocolate lover, fold in half a cup of chocolate chips for a delightful sweetness.

If you need a gluten-free option, substituting rolled oats with certified gluten-free oats works beautifully. For lower sugar content, you can also reduce the honey or maple syrup to 1/4 cup and add a splash of vanilla extract to enhance sweetness without added sugars.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, frozen bananas work great! Just thaw them completely and mash before using.

→ How do I store leftover muffins?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I make these muffins gluten-free?

Yes, simply use certified gluten-free oats and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free.

→ Are these muffins healthy?

These muffins are healthier than most, as they are made with oats and naturally sweetened with bananas.