Banana Cinnamon Yogurt Breakfast Bake
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I love making this Banana Cinnamon Yogurt Breakfast Bake on busy mornings. It’s quick to throw together and fills the house with the most amazing aroma. The combination of ripe bananas, creamy yogurt, and a sprinkle of cinnamon makes for a delightful dish that’s both nutritious and satisfying. I usually enjoy it warm, topped with a drizzle of honey or a dollop of extra yogurt. It’s the perfect start to my day, ensuring I have enough energy to tackle anything that comes my way.
When I first created this recipe, I knew I wanted something that could serve as both a breakfast and a snack. I experimented with various spices and ingredients, finally landing on the perfect blend of banana and cinnamon. The baking method locks in moisture while producing a lovely golden top. I recommend using overripe bananas; they add the perfect level of natural sweetness.
One of my favorite tips is to let the bake cool slightly before serving. This helps it set and enhances the texture, making it easier to cut into portions. Whether served with fresh fruit or a spoonful of yogurt on the side, it’s a winner at any table!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Warm, comforting flavors that remind you of home
- Packed with protein and healthy fats for lasting energy
- Easily customizable with your favorite fruits or nuts
The Power of Bananas
Ripe bananas are a star ingredient in this breakfast bake, not just for their natural sweetness but also for their moistness. Their unique flavor pairs beautifully with the warm cinnamon, creating a comforting base. When choosing bananas, ensure they are well-ripened, ideally with brown spots. This indicates higher sugar content and better flavor profile, which significantly enhances your dish's overall taste.
In addition to their flavor, bananas contribute to a creamy texture in your bake. As they break down during the mixing process, they create a sort of natural binding agent that works with the eggs and yogurt, allowing for a dense yet fluffy consistency. Plus, bananas are rich in potassium and fiber, making this dish an excellent choice for breakfast.
Customizing Your Bake
One of the best things about this Banana Cinnamon Yogurt Breakfast Bake is its versatility. While walnuts add a lovely crunch, you can easily swap them out for other nuts such as pecans or almonds for a different flavor. Dried fruits like cranberries or raisins can also bring a new dimension, adding both texture and sweetness. If you're looking to reduce sugar, consider leaving out the honey altogether; the ripe bananas provide more than enough sweetness on their own.
You can also experiment by adding spices beyond cinnamon. A pinch of nutmeg or a dash of allspice can elevate the flavor profile further. Just be cautious not to overwhelm the dish; a small amount goes a long way. Additionally, consider incorporating chocolate chips for a sweeter twist, making it more like a dessert while still retaining its nutritious elements.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make your Banana Cinnamon Yogurt Breakfast Bake:
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 1/2 cups plain yogurt
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Mix these ingredients well for a delicious breakfast bake!
Instructions
Follow these steps to prepare your Banana Cinnamon Yogurt Breakfast Bake:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9-inch baking dish.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the mashed bananas, yogurt, eggs, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Add Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually stir this mix into the wet ingredients until combined.
Add Nuts
If desired, fold in the chopped walnuts for added crunch.
Bake
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cool and Serve
Allow to cool slightly before cutting into squares. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Enjoy your delicious breakfast bake!
Pro Tips
- For a change, try adding a tablespoon of cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist, or top with sliced almonds for extra texture.
Make-Ahead Tips
This Banana Cinnamon Yogurt Breakfast Bake is an exceptional make-ahead option for busy mornings. If you prepare it the night before, you can simply refrigerate it unbaked. In the morning, just pop it in the preheated oven and enjoy the warm scent wafting through the kitchen within 25 minutes. This preparation gives you a wholesome breakfast ready in under half an hour.
For those looking to prepare larger batches, this recipe can be easily doubled. Simply use a larger baking dish and increase the baking time slightly to ensure even cooking. Just keep an eye on the edges for a golden color; a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean as a doneness test.
Storage and Reheating
Storing the cooled breakfast bake is straightforward. Cut it into squares and place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they can last for up to 5 days. Reheating is simple; just pop a square in the microwave for about 30 seconds, or until heated through. You can also enjoy it cold, straight from the fridge, for a refreshing snack.
If you want to keep this dish for longer, consider freezing the baked squares. Individually wrap them in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can stay good for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat as usual for a delightful breakfast treat that’s always ready to go.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use Greek yogurt instead of plain yogurt?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt will add a creamier texture and boost the protein content.
→ How can I make this recipe vegan?
You can substitute eggs with flax eggs and use a plant-based yogurt and sweetener.
→ Can this bake be made ahead of time?
Yes, it can be prepared the night before and stored in the refrigerator. Just bake it in the morning.
→ What can I use instead of walnuts?
You can easily swap walnuts for pecans, almonds, or even leave them out completely.
Banana Cinnamon Yogurt Breakfast Bake
I love making this Banana Cinnamon Yogurt Breakfast Bake on busy mornings. It’s quick to throw together and fills the house with the most amazing aroma. The combination of ripe bananas, creamy yogurt, and a sprinkle of cinnamon makes for a delightful dish that’s both nutritious and satisfying. I usually enjoy it warm, topped with a drizzle of honey or a dollop of extra yogurt. It’s the perfect start to my day, ensuring I have enough energy to tackle anything that comes my way.
Created by: Nora Ellis
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 1/2 cups plain yogurt
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9-inch baking dish.
In a large bowl, mix the mashed bananas, yogurt, eggs, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth.
In a separate bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually stir this mix into the wet ingredients until combined.
If desired, fold in the chopped walnuts for added crunch.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Allow to cool slightly before cutting into squares. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Extra Tips
- For a change, try adding a tablespoon of cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist, or top with sliced almonds for extra texture.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 6g