Made with simple pantry ingredients, these oatmeal cups are naturally sweetened with ripe bananas and honey,
eliminating the need for refined sugar. The result is a gentle sweetness that feels balanced rather than overpowering,
making them suitable for both adults and children.

Almond flour adds a soft, tender crumb, while rolled oats provide fiber and structure. Warm spices like cinnamon and
nutmeg enhance the aroma and give these breakfast cups a cozy, homemade feel. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or
reheated later, they maintain a soft texture and satisfying flavor.

These banana oatmeal cups are also an excellent solution for meal prep. They can be made in advance, stored easily,
and reheated in seconds. This makes them ideal for school mornings, workdays, or quick snacks between meals.

Why This Recipe Works

• Balanced combination of carbohydrates, fiber, and natural sweetness
• Soft and moist texture without refined sugar
• Easy to prepare using basic kitchen equipment
• Highly customizable with different mix-ins
• Suitable for meal prep and freezer storage

Unlike many store-bought breakfast bars or muffins, these oatmeal cups allow you to control the quality of the
ingredients. You can easily adjust sweetness levels, swap ingredients, or adapt the recipe to specific dietary needs.

Preparation Time

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Baking time: 25–30 minutes
• Total time: About 40 minutes
• Servings: 12 oatmeal cups

Ingredients

• 1 1/4 cups mashed ripe bananas
• 1/3 cup honey (adjust to taste)
• 1 large egg
• 3/4 cup almond milk or preferred milk
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1/2 cup almond flour
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds (optional)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• Non-stick baking spray

When selecting bananas, choose ones that are fully ripe with brown spots. Ripe bananas mash easily and provide
natural sweetness and moisture, which is essential for achieving a soft texture in the finished oatmeal cups.

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin pan with non-stick baking spray.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together mashed bananas, honey, egg, milk, oil, vanilla extract, almond extract,
   cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg until smooth and well combined.
3. Add rolled oats, almond flour, baking powder, and sliced almonds if using. Stir gently until all ingredients
   are evenly incorporated.
4. Spoon the mixture evenly into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full to allow room
   for gentle rising.
5. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the tops are lightly golden and the centers feel firm when pressed.
6. Remove from the oven and allow the oatmeal cups to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring
   them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Avoid overbaking, as this can dry out the oatmeal cups. Checking them a few minutes before the suggested baking
time ensures they remain soft and moist.

Nutritional Information (Per Cup – Approximate)

• Calories: 150
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 9g

These values are estimates and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands used.
The oatmeal cups provide a balanced source of energy suitable for breakfast or snacks.

Storage Tips

Store the oatmeal cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.
For longer storage, freeze them individually and reheat in the microwave when needed.

Freezing makes these cups especially convenient for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a homemade breakfast
even on the busiest mornings.

Optional Variations

This recipe is easy to customize. Chocolate chips add a sweeter flavor, chopped nuts provide extra crunch,
and fresh berries introduce a fruity contrast. You can also experiment with different spices such as cardamom
or ginger for variety.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these oatmeal cups gluten-free?

Yes. Use certified gluten-free rolled oats and verify that all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I replace honey with another sweetener?

Maple syrup or agave syrup work well as substitutes. Adjust the amount according to your taste preference.

Are these oatmeal cups suitable for a healthy lifestyle?

Yes. They contain whole grains, fiber, and natural sweeteners, making them a nutritious option
when enjoyed in moderation.

Can I make them dairy-free?

Absolutely. Simply use a plant-based milk such as almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk.

Serving Suggestions

These banana oatmeal breakfast cups can be enjoyed in many ways depending on your preference.
Serve them warm on their own for a quick breakfast, or pair them with fresh fruit and yogurt
for a more complete meal. They also work well as a midday snack when you need something filling
but not overly heavy.

For children, these oatmeal cups are easy to hold and mess-free, making them a practical option
for school mornings. For adults, they pair nicely with coffee or tea and provide steady energy
without the sugar crash often caused by packaged snacks.

Helpful Baking Tips

To achieve the best texture, avoid overmixing the batter once the dry ingredients are added.
Stir just until combined to keep the oatmeal cups soft. Using ripe bananas is also key, as they
provide natural sweetness and moisture without needing extra sugar.

If you prefer a slightly crisp top, you can sprinkle a few extra sliced almonds on the batter
before baking. Always allow the cups to cool slightly before removing them from the pan to help
them hold their shape.