Apple Banana Oatmeal Bake is a naturally sweet, nutrient-packed dish made with wholesome oats, juicy apples, and ripe bananas. It’s moist, soft, and gently spiced with cinnamon—perfect for breakfast, a healthy snack, or even dessert. This no-sugar-added recipe is kid-friendly, freezer-friendly, and ideal for anyone looking for a guilt-free, clean-eating treat that’s simple and delicious.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50–60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 4–6 servings
Cuisine: Healthy, Vegetarian, Sugar-Free Baking
Ingredients
Everything you need is simple, natural, and likely already in your kitchen.
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1 cup (100g) oatmeal (old-fashioned or quick oats)
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2 medium or 4 small apples, peeled and diced
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3.5 oz (100g) raisins, rinsed in hot water
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2 ripe bananas, mashed
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2 eggs
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1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1 teaspoon baking powder
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Optional: pinch of salt, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, or chopped nuts
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
Preheat the oven
Set your oven to 360°F (180°C) and allow it to fully preheat. This ensures an even bake from the start.
Prepare the baking dish
Grease or line a 6-inch (15 cm) round or square baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.
Soften the raisins
Rinse the raisins in hot water to plump them up and remove any preservatives or coatings.
Mash the bananas
In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas with a fork until smooth and creamy.
Add eggs and mix
Crack the eggs into the bowl with the mashed bananas. Whisk until the mixture is well combined.
Combine dry ingredients
Add the oatmeal, baking powder, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt if using. Mix until fully incorporated.
Fold in apples and raisins
Gently stir in the diced apples and drained raisins. Ensure even distribution for balanced flavor in every bite.
Pour into baking dish
Transfer the mixture into your prepared dish and smooth out the top with a spatula or spoon.
Bake
Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and serve
Allow the bake to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)
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Calories: 190
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Protein: 5g
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Fat: 4g
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Carbohydrates: 36g
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Fiber: 5g
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Natural Sugars: 18g
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Cholesterol: 60mg
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Sodium: 80mg
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
Baked oatmeal originated as a way to combine the comfort of porridge with the convenience of portable meals. With its roots in traditional morning meals from Europe and North America, baked oatmeal evolved into a popular make-ahead dish. Combining apples, bananas, and oats creates a sweet and hearty meal with widespread appeal. This version excludes refined sugars, relying on fruit for natural sweetness, making it even more aligned with modern health trends.
Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Sweet without added sugar
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Quick to mix and prep in one bowl
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Naturally gluten-free (if using certified oats)
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Moist, soft, and full of fruit
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Perfect for meal prep and on-the-go eating
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Great for kids and adults alike
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Stores and freezes well
Health Benefits
This oatmeal bake is a nutrition powerhouse thanks to its whole-food ingredients.
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Oats provide soluble fiber, which helps control blood sugar and supports digestion.
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Bananas are rich in potassium, support heart health, and add creaminess.
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Apples offer dietary fiber and antioxidants.
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Raisins provide iron and natural energy.
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Eggs add protein and essential fatty acids.
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Cinnamon supports balanced blood sugar levels and adds warmth.
Together, these ingredients create a dish that’s as good for your body as it is for your taste buds.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy this versatile bake in multiple ways:
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As-is for a light breakfast or snack
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Topped with Greek yogurt or cottage cheese for added protein
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Drizzled with nut butter or tahini
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Paired with fresh berries, kiwi, or sliced bananas
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Warmed up with a splash of almond or dairy milk
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Served cold from the fridge for a quick bite on busy mornings
Cooking Tips
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Use very ripe bananas to naturally sweeten the dish and ensure moisture.
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Choose firm apples like Granny Smith, Fuji, or Honeycrisp for structure.
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Make sure raisins are well-rinsed and slightly plumped before mixing in.
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Avoid overmixing once you add the oats and fruit—just combine gently.
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Allow the bake to cool slightly before slicing for cleaner cuts.
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For a firmer bake, let it cool completely and refrigerate before cutting.
Variations to Try
Get creative and tailor this recipe to your preferences:
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Add 1/4 cup chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch.
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Use dried cranberries, dates, or chopped apricots instead of raisins.
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Swap cinnamon for pumpkin pie spice or add nutmeg for a cozier taste.
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Fold in unsweetened shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
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Make it vegan by using 2 flax eggs (2 tbsp flaxseed + 6 tbsp water).
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Add a streusel topping made with oats, cinnamon, and coconut oil for extra texture.
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Stir in 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce for more apple flavor.
Conclusion
Apple Banana Oatmeal Bake is a celebration of simple, nourishing ingredients baked into something incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re making breakfast for the family, prepping for the week, or just want a healthy treat with natural sweetness, this recipe checks all the boxes. Easy, wholesome, and endlessly customizable, it’s a true staple for any home cook who values health and taste in equal measure.
FAQ
1. Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
Yes. Quick oats will create a softer texture, while old-fashioned oats give more bite.
2. Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. It stores well in the fridge for up to 5 days.
3. Can I freeze this bake?
Yes. Slice into portions, freeze individually, and thaw overnight or reheat in the microwave.
4. What apples are best?
Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp so they hold their shape while baking.
5. Can I make it without eggs?
Yes. Replace each egg with 1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water.
6. Is it sweet enough without sugar?
Yes, if your bananas are very ripe. You can also add a little maple syrup or honey if desired.
7. What’s a good topping for this bake?
Plain or flavored yogurt, nut butters, fresh fruit, or a drizzle of milk.
8. Can I double the recipe?
Yes. Use a larger baking dish and add 10–15 minutes to the baking time.
9. Can I add protein powder?
Yes, but reduce oats slightly or increase liquid to maintain texture.
10. Is this recipe suitable for toddlers?
Yes. It’s soft, naturally sweet, and made without refined sugars.