Peanut Butter Baked Oatmeal Recipe

Warm, comforting, and simply bursting with nutty flavor, Peanut Butter Baked Oatmeal is the ultimate breakfast that marries sweet nostalgia with wholesome ingredients. Imagine a cozy square that’s soft, chewy, and flecked with melt-in-your-mouth banana slices—the kind of breakfast you actually look forward to as soon as you wake up! Whether you want to meal prep for the week or just crave a quick yet hearty start to your day, this oven-baked oatmeal has it all, and its show-topping peanut butter swirl will make it your new go-to. Trust me, after one bite, you’ll understand why Peanut Butter Baked Oatmeal has earned a permanent spot in my breakfast rotation!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things easy—you’ll recognize every ingredient, and each plays a small but important part in creating the cozy flavor and texture that makes Peanut Butter Baked Oatmeal so special. Gather these basics and you’re halfway to magic!

• Rolled oats: The hearty base for your baked oatmeal, offering chewy texture and plenty of fiber.
• Baking powder: Helps your oatmeal puff up ever so slightly, giving it a light and sliceable texture.
• Cinnamon: Adds a warm, spiced note that perfectly complements the nutty richness of peanut butter.
• Pinch of salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances out the sweetness.
• Milk (dairy or non-dairy): Brings moisture and helps bind the mix—use your favorite for extra flavor variety.
• Natural peanut butter: The superstar ingredient! Choose a creamy variety for that dreamy, melt-in moment.
• Maple syrup or honey: Naturally sweetens the oats and brings out their best flavor.
• Egg: Holds everything together for bars that slice beautifully.
• Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavor with a touch of aromatic sweetness.
• Banana, sliced (for topping): Adds a burst of natural sweetness and sunny color on every square.

How to Make Peanut Butter Baked Oatmeal

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Preheat

Begin by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing an 8×8-inch pan. This little bit of prep ensures an even bake and easy removal later—nobody wants their breakfast sticking when it smells so delicious!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine your rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Give them a quick stir to distribute the cinnamon’s warmth and the baking powder’s lift throughout the oats. This makes sure every bite has a bit of everything.

Step 3: Whisk the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, natural peanut butter, maple syrup (or honey), egg, and vanilla extract. The peanut butter will blend smoothly as you whisk—it’s okay if you see a few streaks, that just means extra pockets of nutty flavor later!

Step 4: Combine Everything

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the oat mixture. Gently stir until everything is combined—don’t overmix! It should look thick, creamy, and oh-so inviting, with tiny ribbons of peanut butter running through.

Step 5: Pour into the Pan and Add Banana

Transfer the batter to your prepared pan, smoothing out the top with a spatula. Arrange your banana slices over the top for a touch of sweetness and a pretty finish—banana caramelizes as it bakes, creating golden pockets of fruit in every square.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pop your pan into the oven and let it bake for 30 to 35 minutes. The oatmeal should look puffed, set in the middle, and just starting to turn golden around the edges. Give it time to cool before slicing—this helps it set up into those neat, tender bars.

Step 7: Optional Drizzle

If you want to take things totally over the top, warm a little extra peanut butter and drizzle it across the cooled squares. It’s simple but transforms Peanut Butter Baked Oatmeal into something you’ll dream about!

How to Serve Peanut Butter Baked Oatmeal

Garnishes

A sprinkle of toasted nuts, extra banana slices, or even a scattering of chocolate chips all make wonderful finishing touches. For a little indulgence, a dollop of Greek yogurt or a dusting of cinnamon will invite even more cozy vibes.

Side Dishes

Pair your baked oatmeal with a mug of hot coffee, a bright fruit salad, or a cool glass of milk. The balance of the warm, nutty oats with something fresh keeps breakfast light but satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting your squares into fun shapes with a cookie cutter for a kid-friendly twist, layering them parfait-style with yogurt and berries, or serving warm squares à la mode with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an afternoon treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Stack the squares between layers of parchment, and you’ll have a grab-and-go breakfast all week.

Freezing

Peanut Butter Baked Oatmeal freezes beautifully! Let the bars cool completely, wrap them individually, and store in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months—perfect for those extra busy mornings.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm a square in the microwave for about 30 seconds or pop it in a toaster oven until heated through. It’ll be just as tender and delicious as the day you baked it.

FAQs

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

While rolled oats give the best hearty texture, quick oats will work in a pinch. Expect a slightly softer and more uniform result, but all the same great flavor!

What about swapping peanut butter for other nut or seed butters?

Absolutely! Almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter all make great substitutes and lend their own personality. Just keep in mind, the recipe is at its coziest when it’s true to Peanut Butter Baked Oatmeal.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free oats, the entire recipe is naturally free from gluten—perfect for sharing with friends who have dietary restrictions.

Can I double the recipe?

Go for it! Double the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch baking pan. Watch the baking time, as it may need a few extra minutes—just check that the center is set before slicing.

Can I prep it the night before?

Definitely. You can assemble Peanut Butter Baked Oatmeal (except for the banana topping) the night before and refrigerate the unbaked mixture. In the morning, add the banana and bake as directed—so easy for busy weekdays!

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a breakfast that’s as nourishing as it is irresistible, this Peanut Butter Baked Oatmeal is your answer. It’s incredibly simple, endlessly customizable, and sure to become a fast favorite in your home. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and fall in love with how easy breakfast can be!

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