If you’re searching for a wholesome, crave-worthy breakfast that tastes like dessert but totally delivers on nutrition, Peanut Butter Baked Oatmeal is about to become your new obsession. Imagine fluffy oats baked to golden perfection with a gorgeous swirl of creamy peanut butter, sweet banana, and just a hint of maple syrup — every bite is equal parts cozy comfort and feel-good fuel. Baked oatmeal is an absolute game-changer for busy mornings or relaxed weekend brunches, and this recipe never fails to bring smiles to the table. Let’s jump into (possibly!) your next breakfast go-to.

Peanut Butter Baked Oatmeal Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Peanut Butter Baked Oatmeal is all about everyday ingredients working harmoniously to make magic in a baking dish. Each one adds something special to the flavor, texture, or color, so don’t skip — together, they’re unbeatable!

Banana: Use a large, ultra-ripe banana for maximum sweetness and extra moisture in every slice.
Creamy all-natural peanut butter: Go for the runny kind — it blends in seamlessly and adds that unmistakable peanutty richness.
Real maple syrup (or honey): A touch of natural sweetness plays perfectly with the nuttiness and banana.
Unsweetened almond milk or oat milk: The liquid base keeps this breakfast dairy-free and delightfully tender.
Large egg (or ground flaxseed + water): To bind everything together; use flax for a vegan option that’s just as tasty.
Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with a subtle fragrant note.
Old-fashioned rolled oats: The heart of the dish; these oats hold up beautifully during baking for that perfect chewy-soft bite.
Ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and coziness — just a teaspoon goes a long way!
Baking powder: Gives a gentle lift, so your oatmeal isn’t dense or heavy.
Salt: Just enough to sharpen the flavors and make everything pop.

How to Make Peanut Butter Baked Oatmeal

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch square baking dish with either cooking spray or a slick of avocado oil. Taking a moment to prep your pan keeps all those golden corners from sticking and makes serving a breeze!

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add your mashed spotty banana, creamy peanut butter, and maple syrup. Pour in the almond or oat milk, crack in your egg (or add the flaxseed mix if you’re going vegan), and splash in the vanilla extract. Whisk it all together until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and gorgeously fragrant.

Step 3: Stir in the Dry Ingredients

Now, add the oats, ground cinnamon, baking powder, salt, and if making it vegan, the ground flaxseed (instead of the egg). Stir well so every oat is coated and nothing’s hiding at the bottom! If your peanut butter is really thick, you might need to add a dash more milk to reach a creamy, pourable consistency — trust your eyes but use the photo reference if you need a guide.

Step 4: Pour and Spread

Scrape the oat mixture into your prepared baking dish and gently spread it out to the edges. Smooth the top with your spatula so it bakes up nice and even. No need for fancy designs, but if you’re feeling artistic, you can swirl in an extra spoonful of peanut butter before baking!

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide the dish into the oven and let it bake for 35 to 45 minutes. You’re looking for a golden brown top and a center that’s just set — not wobbly! The kitchen will start to smell absolutely incredible, trust me.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once it’s done, let the Peanut Butter Baked Oatmeal cool for five minutes so it slices up easily. For extra flair, drizzle with more peanut butter and adorn with fresh banana slices. Dig in while it’s still warm for peak comfort!

How to Serve Peanut Butter Baked Oatmeal

Garnishes

A little something extra on top makes each slice irresistible. Try a drizzle of melty peanut butter, a handful of toasted nuts, slices of fresh banana, or even a sprinkle of chocolate chips for a decadent touch. Each garnish adds a new flavor and texture, making your baked oatmeal feel bakery-special.

Side Dishes

Complement your Peanut Butter Baked Oatmeal with a side of Greek yogurt for creaminess, a fresh fruit salad for brightness, or a mug of hot coffee to round out your breakfast spread. This oatmeal is filling, so simple sides are perfect to keep things balanced and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the baked oatmeal into neat squares and serve on a platter for brunch guests, or scoop portions into bowls and top with assorted seasonal fruit. Layer cubes into a parfait with yogurt and granola for a portable snack, or pack up individual servings for grab-and-go breakfasts all week long.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover the baking dish tightly or transfer pieces to an airtight container. Peanut Butter Baked Oatmeal keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days, making it the ultimate meal-prep breakfast — just reheat and top however you like.

Freezing

This recipe is freezer friendly! Slice the baked oatmeal into single servings and wrap each one individually, or store the whole batch in a freezer-safe container. It stays fresh for about three months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat straight from frozen if you’re in a hurry.

Reheating

A quick zap in the microwave (about 30-60 seconds per piece) brings baked oatmeal right back to its just-baked, cozy self. For extra crispiness, try reheating slices in the toaster oven. Add your favorite toppings after warming for the best flavor and texture.

FAQs

Can I make Peanut Butter Baked Oatmeal without bananas?

Yes! If you’re not a banana fan or don’t have one on hand, substitute with unsweetened applesauce or pumpkin puree. Both keep the oatmeal moist and add their own delicious flavor profiles.

What’s the best peanut butter to use?

I recommend creamy, all-natural peanut butter with just peanuts and salt for the smoothest texture and boldest peanut flavor. If yours is on the thicker side, simply thin it out with a splash more milk when mixing the batter.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely — just be sure to use certified gluten-free oats. Everything else in this Peanut Butter Baked Oatmeal recipe is naturally gluten-free, so it’s great for those avoiding gluten!

Can I double the recipe?

Definitely! Double all the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. The baking time may be slightly longer, so check for doneness by making sure the center is set and the top is beautifully golden.

How can I make it sweeter without extra sugar?

If you like things a tad sweeter, add a handful of raisins, chopped dates, or swirl in a bit of extra maple syrup before baking. Ripe bananas will also naturally boost the sweetness in your Peanut Butter Baked Oatmeal.

Final Thoughts

Peanut Butter Baked Oatmeal is all about making breakfast feel special — with hardly any effort. It’s hearty, full of nourishing goodness, and endlessly customizable to your cravings. Give it a try and let this cozy creation become a staple in your morning routine!