Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal Recipe

Prep a truly delicious breakfast with this Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal. It combines rolled oats, ripe bananas, unsweetened applesauce and a few pantry staples for an easy, freezer-friendly, make-ahead breakfast that’s great warm or cold.

What are the ingredients in Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal?

This recipe uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients you may already have on hand. Below is everything you need along with brief notes on each component.

• Bananas – 2 ripe bananas. Riper fruit adds more natural sweetness and banana flavor.
• Eggs – 2 large eggs to bind the mixture.
• Milk – 3/4 cup dairy or non-dairy milk, whichever you prefer.
• Unsweetened applesauce – 1/3 cup to keep the baked oatmeal moist without excess oil.
• Brown sugar – 1/3 cup packed for sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor.
• Unsalted butter – 1/4 cup melted for richness and texture.
• Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon to enhance the overall flavor.
• Old-fashioned rolled oats – 3 cups. Do not use steel-cut oats; quick oats can be substituted but texture will change.
• Ground cinnamon – 2 teaspoons for warm flavor that pairs well with banana and chocolate.
• Baking powder – 1 teaspoon to help the oatmeal set and puff slightly.
• Fine salt – 1 teaspoon to balance and brighten the flavors.
• Chocolate chips – 1/2 cup, optional but delicious in this banana bread–style oatmeal.

How do you make this Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal?

Hands-on time is minimal and cleanup is easy. You can mix everything directly in a 9×13-inch casserole dish or use a bowl if you prefer.

Step 1 – Mix wet ingredients: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Mash the bananas in a large bowl or directly in the casserole dish, then whisk in the eggs. Add the milk, applesauce, brown sugar, melted butter and vanilla extract; stir until combined.

Step 2 – Add dry ingredients: Sprinkle the rolled oats, cinnamon, baking powder and salt over the wet mixture and fold together until even. Stir in the chocolate chips and press the mixture into an even layer in the dish.

Step 3 – Bake and serve: Bake uncovered for 28–32 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is set. Let cool at least 5 minutes before cutting into 8 portions. Serve warm or chilled with optional toppings like sliced bananas, chopped pecans or a dollop of whipped cream.

Can I use steel cut or quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Do not use steel cut oats for this baked oatmeal—those require a much longer cook time. Quick oats will work but will produce a softer, different texture; you may need to increase the oat amount slightly (about 1/4 cup) to achieve the same consistency.

How to turn this baked oatmeal into oatmeal cups:

To make individual oatmeal cups, grease a 12-count muffin tin or use silicone liners. Prepare the batter as directed, divide it evenly among the wells, and bake at 350°F for 20–23 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. These are great for grab-and-go breakfasts or packed lunches.

What should you serve with this recipe?

This baked oatmeal is satisfying on its own but also pairs well with eggs, breakfast sausage or fresh fruit for a more complete brunch spread. It makes a versatile base for sweet or savory sides.

Testing notes for this Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal recipe:

Notes from testing and experience:

• I typically mix and bake directly in the casserole dish without sticking, but if you have an older pan or worry about sticking, grease it well or mix in a bowl and transfer.
• The baked oatmeal is excellent cold from the fridge—firm, slightly chewy and easy to transport.
• If you prefer, omit chocolate chips and add chopped walnuts or pecans for a nutty variation.

How do you meal prep this Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal?

There are several convenient make-ahead options:

• Complete prep: Make the recipe, then portion into individual containers for easy breakfasts during the week.
• Enjoy now & later: Serve a portion warm and refrigerate the rest for quick cold or reheated breakfasts.
• Freeze for longer storage: Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap or foil, place in a freezer bag and freeze up to 3 months for best quality.

How to store Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal:

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Glass containers with lids or reusable silicone bags both work well.

How to freeze Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal:

Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

How to reheat Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal:

Eat cold straight from the fridge, or reheat a portion in the microwave for about 90 seconds until hot. Add a splash of milk before reheating if you prefer a creamier texture.