Cinnamon Swirl Protein Banana Baked Oats

Imagine the comforting aroma of freshly baked banana bread wafting through your kitchen, but with the nutritional profile of a high-protein breakfast. This Cinnamon Swirl Protein Banana Baked Oats recipe transforms simple pantry staples into a nourishing, cake-like meal that is as satisfying as it is delicious. Perfect for a cozy morning at home or a post-workout refuel, this single-serve dish hits all the right notes of sweetness and warmth.

Save to Pinterest

Baked oats have taken the breakfast world by storm because they offer a texture that is far more interesting than traditional stovetop oatmeal. By blending or mixing the ingredients and baking them in a ramekin, you create a soft, fluffy base that feels like dessert for breakfast. The addition of a cinnamon-sugar paste swirled into the top ensures every bite is infused with a warm, spiced flavor.

Ingredients

• Wet Ingredients:
• 1 medium ripe banana, mashed
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup (120 ml) unsweetened milk of choice (dairy or plant-based)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Dry Ingredients:
• ½ cup (45 g) old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1 scoop (about 30 g) vanilla protein powder
• ½ tsp baking powder
• Pinch of salt
• Cinnamon Swirl:
• 1 tbsp coconut sugar or brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp melted butter (or coconut oil)

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease an 8–10 oz single-serving ramekin.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, mash the banana thoroughly, then whisk in the egg, milk, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.

Step 3: Combine with Dry Ingredients

Stir in the old-fashioned oats, protein powder, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

Step 4: Fill the Ramekin

Pour the oat batter into the prepared ramekin and smooth the top with a spoon.

Step 5: Create the Cinnamon Swirl

In a small bowl, combine the coconut sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter to form a paste.

Step 6: Swirl and Bake

Spoon small dollops of the cinnamon mixture over the batter. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl it through. Bake for 22–25 minutes until the center is set and the top is golden.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow the oats to cool for 5 minutes before enjoying them warm.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure the best results, make sure your banana is very ripe with plenty of brown spots; this provides the natural sweetness and moisture needed for the base. Use a small whisk to ensure the protein powder is fully incorporated without any dry clumps remaining in the batter. For the perfect swirl, don't over-mix the cinnamon paste into the batter—just a few gentle turns with a skewer will keep the flavors distinct.

Varianten und Anpassungen

You can easily customize this recipe to fit your dietary needs. For a vegan version, substitute the egg with a flax egg and use a plant-based milk like almond or soy. If you prefer a different flavor profile, try using chocolate or unflavored protein powder instead of vanilla. For extra texture and crunch, consider folding in 1–2 tablespoons of chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips before baking.

Serviervorschläge

While these baked oats are delicious on their own, you can elevate the dish with various toppings. Serve it with a dollop of Greek yogurt for added creaminess and an extra protein boost. Fresh banana slices, a sprinkle of extra cinnamon, or a generous drizzle of your favorite nut butter—such as almond or peanut butter—will add layers of flavor and healthy fats to your morning meal.

Save to Pinterest

With 340 calories and a balanced mix of carbohydrates, healthy fats, and protein, this Cinnamon Swirl Protein Banana Baked Oats is the ultimate fuel for a productive day. Whether you're enjoying it slowly with a cup of coffee or as a quick weekday breakfast, it’s a wholesome choice that never sacrifices flavor. Enjoy your warm, freshly baked treat!

Recipe FAQ

→ Can I make this vegan?

Yes. Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes) and use plant-based milk. The texture remains just as fluffy and satisfying.

→ What protein powder works best?

Vanilla whey or casein protein powder blends seamlessly and adds natural sweetness. Vanilla plant-based protein also works well. Unflavored protein powder is fine if you prefer to control sweetness levels yourself.

→ Can I make this ahead?

The batter comes together so quickly that fresh preparation is ideal. However, you can bake it the night before and reheat gently in the microwave for 30-60 seconds. The cinnamon swirl remains intact and the texture stays tender.

→ Why mash the banana thoroughly?

Thorough mashing eliminates lumps and ensures even distribution throughout the oat mixture. This creates consistent moisture and sweetness in every bite rather than pockets of banana.

→ Can I use instant oats instead of old-fashioned?

Old-fashioned rolled oats provide the best texture—they soften but maintain some structure. Instant oats may become mushy, while steel-cut oats won't soften properly in the baking time. Stick with old-fashioned for ideal results.

→ How do I get the perfect cinnamon swirl?

Spoon the cinnamon paste in small dollops across the surface rather than spreading it. Then use a knife or skewer to make gentle figure-eight motions through just the top layer. Don't over-swirl or you'll lose the defined ribbon effect.