Cinnamon Banana Breakfast Cups

Name: Cinnamon Banana Breakfast Cups
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 cups
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 cup rolled oats; 1/2 cup almond milk (or any milk of your choice); 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; A pinch of salt; Optional toppings: sliced fruit, nuts, or yogurt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love starting my day with a delicious and nutritious breakfast, and these Cinnamon Banana Breakfast Cups have become my go-to recipe. Each cup is packed with the comforting flavors of cinnamon and ripe bananas, making them perfect for both busy mornings and leisurely brunches. Plus, they're incredibly easy to prepare, allowing me to enjoy homemade goodness without spending too much time in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try these, you'll want to whip them up every weekend!

Created by

Nora Ellis

Last updated on 2026-01-15T13:34:16.432Z

When I first experimented with these Cinnamon Banana Breakfast Cups, I was amazed at how simple yet satisfying they turned out. The combination of mashed bananas and oats creates a moist texture that perfectly complements the warm spice of cinnamon. One key tip I discovered is to let the bananas ripen fully; the sweeter they are, the better your breakfast cups will taste!

I've enjoyed these cups on their own, but adding a dollop of Greek yogurt on top or some chopped nuts elevates it even more. They're not only tasty but versatile too—you can easily mix in other ingredients like berries or chocolate chips for extra flavor. You'll love how these cups make breakfast feel special!

        Why You'll Love These Breakfast Cups
        Delicious blend of sweet bananas and warming cinnamon
Perfectly portioned for an easy grab-and-go breakfast
Nutritious ingredients you can feel good about
Versatile options for customization with toppings

      

Perfecting the Texture

The texture of these Cinnamon Banana Breakfast Cups is crucial for achieving that delightful balance of chewy and moist. The rolled oats absorb the almond milk and moisture from the bananas, creating a soft yet sturdy base. If you find the mixture too runny, add an extra tablespoon of oats and let it rest for another five minutes. This will help the oats soak up the liquids further, giving a more cohesive texture after baking.

If you prefer a denser texture, try blending a portion of the rolled oats into a flour-like consistency before mixing it in. This will create a thicker batter, ensuring that each cup holds together beautifully and offers a satisfying bite. Remember, the baking time may vary slightly, so keep an eye on them. You'll know they're ready when they're firm to the touch and have golden edges.

Ingredient Insights

The ripe bananas are not just a sweetener; they play a vital role in the overall flavor and moisture of these breakfast cups. When selecting bananas, ensure they are well-spotted, as this signifies optimal ripeness. Overripe bananas not only provide more sweetness but also contribute to a creamier texture. If bananas are not available, unsweetened applesauce can be used as a substitute, although it may alter the flavor slightly.

Using almond milk adds a nutty flavor that complements the cinnamon and bananas, but feel free to experiment with other types of milk, such as oat or coconut milk. For those avoiding honey, maple syrup provides a great alternative without sacrificing taste. Just be mindful that maple syrup is slightly less sweet, so you might want to increase the quantity if you're after a sweeter outcome.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

These breakfast cups are not only quick to make but also easy to store. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you want to prepare them ahead of time, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to let them cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, simply microwave for about 30 seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through.

For serving, consider adding a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of nuts on top for an extra protein boost. Fresh fruit, such as berries or sliced apples, can enhance both the flavor and presentation, making them a delightful addition for brunches or gatherings. I often enjoy them with a drizzle of nut butter for a satisfying finish that ties the flavors together beautifully.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Cinnamon Banana Breakfast Cups:

Ingredients

2 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup almond milk (or any milk of your choice)
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
A pinch of salt
Optional toppings: sliced fruit, nuts, or yogurt

Once you have gathered your ingredients, you are ready to start making your breakfast cups!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Cinnamon Banana Breakfast Cups:

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it.

Combine wet ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, almond milk, honey (or maple syrup), cinnamon, vanilla extract, and baking powder. Mix well until fully incorporated.

Add oats and salt

Stir in the rolled oats and a pinch of salt until all ingredients are mixed. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes to allow the oats to absorb some liquid.

Fill the muffin tin

Spoon the mixture evenly into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full. This will allow room for expansion during baking.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and serve

Allow the breakfast cups to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Serve warm or store in an airtight container for later.

Your Cinnamon Banana Breakfast Cups are now ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try mixing in some chopped walnuts or a handful of dark chocolate chips. They make a delicious addition to the cups and enhance the overall taste. You can also freeze the cups for a quick breakfast option on busy mornings.

Variations to Try

Don't hesitate to customize the breakfast cups to suit your taste or dietary preferences. For a chocolatey twist, mix in some dark chocolate chips or cacao nibs along with the oats; they melt beautifully and add a decadent flavor to each bite. You can also try adding spices such as nutmeg or ginger for an aromatic variation that plays nicely with the cinnamon.

For those who enjoy nutty flavors, incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the mixture. This not only adds crunch but also provides healthy fats and proteins, making the breakfast cups even more satisfying. Just be cautious with the portions; about 1/4 cup of nuts is generally a good amount to maintain the balance of moisture and texture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your breakfast cups come out too dry, it may be due to overbaking or not enough moisture in the mixture. To fix this in the future, check them a few minutes before the recommended baking time. A toothpick should come out clean but moist—if it's dry, they are likely overdone. Alternatively, add another banana or a splash of milk next time to keep the cups moist and tender.

On the other hand, if the cups don’t hold together well, this might indicate insufficient binding elements. Ensure the bananas are well-mashed and evenly distributed in the mixture. If using a lighter sweetener like coconut sugar, consider an extra pinch of baking powder to help with the rise and ensure a firmer structure as they cool.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of milk?

Yes, you can substitute almond milk with any milk you prefer, such as cow's milk, soy milk, or oat milk.

→ How long do these breakfast cups last?

They can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for longer preservation.

→ Can I substitute the bananas?

While bananas are the main ingredient, you can try using applesauce or pumpkin puree for a different flavor.

→ Are these breakfast cups gluten-free?

If you use gluten-free oats, then yes! Just be sure to check the label on your oats for gluten-free assurance.