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Caramelized Banana Oatmeal Recipe

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4.1 from 83 reviews

A warm and comforting breakfast of creamy banana oatmeal topped with deliciously caramelized bananas. This wholesome recipe combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the richness of maple syrup and a hint of cinnamon, creating a perfect start to your day that’s both nutritious and satisfying.

Ingredients

Banana Oatmeal

  • 1 tsp butter (unsalted or salted, use vegan butter if needed)
  • ½-1 ripe banana
  • ½-1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • ½ cup old-fashioned rolled oats (use certified gluten-free if needed)
  • 1 cup milk (almond milk recommended, plus more milk or water as needed)
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract
  • ¼ tsp ground cinnamon

Caramelized Banana

  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1 banana, sliced into rounds
  • ¼ tsp vanilla extract
  • ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
  • Pinch sea salt (omit if using salted butter)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Oatmeal: In a saucepan, melt 1 teaspoon of butter over medium heat. Add the rolled oats and toast them gently for about 1-2 minutes to bring out their nutty flavor.
  2. Add Liquids and Flavorings: Pour in 1 cup of almond milk (or your preferred milk) and stir in ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract and ¼ teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  3. Cook the Oatmeal: Reduce the heat to low and cook the oats, stirring occasionally, until they are creamy and soft (about 5-7 minutes). Add more milk or water if needed to achieve desired consistency.
  4. Incorporate Banana and Sweetener: Mash ½ to 1 ripe banana and stir it into the oatmeal along with ½ to 1 tablespoon of maple syrup. Mix well to combine and remove from heat.
  5. Caramelize the Bananas: In a separate non-stick skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, ¼ teaspoon each of vanilla extract and ground cinnamon, and a pinch of sea salt if using unsalted butter. Stir to combine.
  6. Cook Banana Slices: Add the banana slices to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, gently caramelizing them until golden and soft but still holding their shape.
  7. Assemble and Serve: Spoon the cooked oatmeal into bowls and top with the warm caramelized banana slices. Serve immediately for a comforting and delicious breakfast.

Notes

  • Use vegan butter or plant-based milk to make this recipe vegan.
  • If you prefer less sweetness, adjust the maple syrup quantity to taste.
  • Certified gluten-free oats should be used if gluten sensitivity is a concern.
  • The caramelized bananas can be made ahead and warmed slightly before serving.
  • For a creamier texture, cook the oats longer while stirring frequently.