This warm and cozy banana cinnamon oatmeal is a perfect start to your day! With sweet bananas and a sprinkle of cinnamon, it’s both tasty and filling.
Honestly, who can resist the smell of cinnamon wafting through the kitchen? I like to add a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness. You’ll love it! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Old-fashioned rolled oats: These oats are perfect for oatmeal as they provide a chewy texture. Quick oats can be used, but they’ll cook faster and be softer. I’d recommend sticking to rolled oats for the best flavor.
Banana: Ripe bananas are key for natural sweetness. If you don’t have bananas, consider using applesauce or a different fruit like pear to maintain a similar sweetness.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon adds warmth and flavor. If you want to mix it up, try nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a twist. I love how cinnamon pairs with bananas!
Honey or maple syrup: This is optional, especially if your banana is very ripe and sweet. If you’re vegan, maple syrup is a great choice. Agave syrup can work too!
How Do I Cook Oatmeal to Get the Right Texture?
Getting your oatmeal just right can be a bit tricky, but here are some easy steps:
- Use a medium saucepan to implement even heat. Boil your water or milk first before adding the oats.
- After adding the oats, reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir it occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Cook until the oatmeal is soft and creamy—about 5 minutes for rolled oats.
- If it’s too thick, add a splash of water or milk to reach your desired consistency.
Letting it sit for a minute off the heat helps it thicken even more. A perfect way to start any morning! Enjoy your oatmeal!
How to Make Banana Cinnamon Oatmeal
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 2 cups water or milk (or a mix of both)
- 1 ripe banana, sliced (plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (plus more for sprinkling)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This yummy banana cinnamon oatmeal will take you about 10 minutes to prepare and cook. With just a little bit of time, you can have a delicious and nutritious breakfast ready to go!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boil the Liquid:
Start by pouring the water or milk into a medium saucepan. Place it on the stove and bring it to a gentle boil. Don’t forget to add a pinch of salt for flavor!
2. Cook the Oats:
Once your liquid is boiling, stir in the rolled oats. Lower the heat to medium-low and keep cooking, stirring occasionally. This should take about 5 minutes. You want the oats to be soft and have absorbed most of the liquid, creating a creamy texture.
3. Add the Banana and Cinnamon:
While the oatmeal is cooking, take your ripe banana and mash it with a fork in a small bowl. Once your oats are nicely cooked, stir the mashed banana and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon into the pot. If you’d like it sweeter, add honey or maple syrup at this point. Mix everything well!
4. Let It Thicken:
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the oatmeal sit for about a minute. This helps it thicken up just a bit more, making it even creamier!
5. Serve It Up:
Now it’s time to enjoy! Pour your oatmeal into a bowl and add extra banana slices on top. Finish with a sprinkle of cinnamon for that lovely aroma and flavor. Yum!
6. Enjoy Your Breakfast!
Dig in while it’s warm! This banana cinnamon oatmeal is the perfect way to start your day filled with energy and happiness!
Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can! However, quick oats will cook faster and result in a creamier texture. You may only need to cook them for 1-2 minutes. Just keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking!
What If I Don’t Have Ripe Bananas?
No worries! If you don’t have ripe bananas, you can use a non-ripe banana, but slice it and add it while cooking to help soften it. Alternatively, you can use applesauce or another fruit puree for sweetness.
How Can I Store Leftover Oatmeal?
Store any leftover oatmeal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or water to loosen the texture and warm it up over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I Customize the Toppings?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your oatmeal with toppings like nuts, dried fruits, or seeds for added texture and flavor. A dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of nut butter can also elevate it!
