I love this recipe because it gives me the taste of banana bread in a wholesome, no-fuss breakfast. It’s naturally sweetened with banana and maple syrup, full of warm cinnamon flavor, and completely customizable. I prep it the night before, and when morning comes, all I have to do is grab a spoon. It’s perfect for meal prep, busy mornings, or those days when I want something comforting and nourishing.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 ripe banana 1/2 cup old fashioned oats 1/2 cup whole milk 2 tablespoons chopped pecans 2 teaspoons real maple syrup 1/2 tablespoon vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/8 teaspoon coarse sea salt
Directions
I mash the banana in a small bowl until smooth.
I pour the milk into a jar or container with a lid, then stir in the oats.
I add the mashed banana, maple syrup, vanilla, salt, cinnamon, and nuts, stirring until fully combined.
I cover the container and refrigerate it overnight or for at least 4 hours.
In the morning, I give it a quick stir and enjoy it cold or warmed up.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 1 Prep time: 5 minutes Chill time: 4 hours or overnight Total time: 4 hours 5 minutes to overnight
Variations
I use almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
I add chia seeds or ground flax for extra thickness and nutrition.
I swap pecans for walnuts or almonds.
I add a spoonful of Greek yogurt in the morning to make it extra creamy.
I top it with sliced banana, a drizzle of nut butter, or a sprinkle of granola.
Storage/Reheating
I store overnight oats in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If they thicken too much, I stir in a splash of milk before eating. I enjoy them cold straight from the fridge or warm them in the microwave in short intervals until cozy.
FAQs
Can I use quick oats instead of old fashioned oats?
Yes, but the texture will be softer and less chewy.
Can I make this with steel-cut oats?
I don’t recommend it because steel-cut oats stay too firm unless partially cooked first.
How do I make the oats sweeter?
I add more maple syrup or a sprinkle of brown sugar.
Can I add protein?
Yes, I stir in a scoop of protein powder or add Greek yogurt in the morning.
What if I don’t like pecans?
I simply leave them out or replace them with any nuts or seeds I enjoy.
Conclusion
I love how these banana bread overnight oats deliver all the comforting flavors of banana bread in a healthy, make-ahead breakfast. They’re simple, flexible, and delicious—exactly what I reach for when I want a nourishing start to the day without extra effort. Whether I enjoy them chilled or warmed, they make mornings feel a little easier and a lot tastier.
