Cinnamon Banana Breakfast Squares
Highlighted under: Easy Baking Inspiration
I love starting my day with a delicious treat, and these Cinnamon Banana Breakfast Squares have become my go-to morning delight. The combination of ripe bananas and warm cinnamon not only elevates my mood but also fills my kitchen with a comforting aroma. It’s a recipe that’s quick to prepare and perfect for busy weekdays or leisurely weekends alike. Packed with wholesome ingredients, these squares are satisfying and help me kick-start my day on a sweet note.
These Cinnamon Banana Breakfast Squares came to life after I wanted a healthier alternative to my usual sugary breakfast bars. With simple ingredients like ripe bananas, oats, and a hint of cinnamon, I was thrilled with how delicious the result was. What I found works best is ensuring the bananas are very ripe, as they contribute to the natural sweetness and a moist texture.
Another tip is to let them cool completely before slicing; it makes it easier to cut clean squares, and they hold their shape beautifully. I like to make a batch at the start of the week for a quick grab-and-go breakfast. They pair perfectly with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of honey!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Warm, comforting flavors that brighten your morning
- Nutritious and satisfying start to the day
- Easy to prepare and make ahead for busy mornings
Mastering the Ingredients
The beauty of these Cinnamon Banana Breakfast Squares lies in the simplicity of its ingredients. Ripe bananas are not just a sweetener but also a binder that helps hold the squares together, giving them a moist texture. Choosing bananas with lots of brown spots indicates they are sweet and perfectly ripe, ideal for mashing. If you're short on ripe bananas, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a brown paper bag for a day or two.
Rolled oats form the foundation of the squares, providing a hearty base and a chewy texture. Opt for certified gluten-free oats if you’re catering to gluten-sensitive individuals. You can swap in other whole grains like quinoa flakes or even almond flour for a lower-carb alternative, but keep in mind that this will alter the texture. It's essential to use old-fashioned rolled oats rather than quick oats, as the latter may become too mushy when baked.
Baking Tips for Perfect Texture
When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix gently. Overmixing can lead to tough squares instead of the tender bite we want. The batter should be mixed until just combined, leaving some lumps of oats visible, which adds to the texture. If you're including walnuts or chocolate chips, fold them in delicately at the end to keep the batter airy and light.
Baking time is crucial for achieving the perfect consistency. Keep an eye on the squares as they bake, checking for golden brown edges and a set center. Be aware that oven temperatures can vary, so I recommend checking for doneness a couple of minutes before the 25-minute mark. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter, which signals the squares are ready.
Ingredients
Gather your ingredients before you begin for a smooth cooking process.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond milk
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips (optional)
Make sure to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge!
Instructions
Preheat your oven and prepare your baking dish before you start mixing ingredients.
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish (8x8 inches) with parchment paper.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, almond milk, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, mix the rolled oats, ground cinnamon, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
Combine Mixtures
Pour the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients mixture. Stir until just combined. If using, fold in chopped walnuts or chocolate chips.
Bake
Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking dish and bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cool and Slice
Remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Carefully lift it out and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing into squares.
Enjoy your cinnamon banana breakfast squares warm or cold, and feel free to add your favorite toppings!
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or using a sprinkle of shredded coconut on top before baking.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
These breakfast squares can be made ahead and stored for busy mornings. Once they've cooled completely, slice them into squares and store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them, where they will last up to a week.
You can also freeze these squares for up to three months. Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a labeled freezer bag. When you're ready to enjoy one, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or pop it in the microwave for a quick warm-up.
Serving Suggestions
These Cinnamon Banana Breakfast Squares are fantastic on their own, but you can elevate them with a few toppings. A drizzle of almond butter or a dollop of yogurt adds a creamy contrast and some healthy fats. Fresh fruits like sliced strawberries or blueberries can also add a burst of flavor and freshness.
For a more indulgent twist, consider serving the squares with a side of maple syrup or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. I love serving them warm, straight from the oven, with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast or brunch experience.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these squares vegan?
Yes, use maple syrup instead of honey and check that your almond milk is unsweetened.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze these breakfast squares?
Absolutely! Wrap them individually and store them in the freezer for easy breakfasts.
→ What can I add for flavor?
Consider adding dried fruits, nuts, or even a tablespoon of peanut butter for extra richness!
Cinnamon Banana Breakfast Squares
I love starting my day with a delicious treat, and these Cinnamon Banana Breakfast Squares have become my go-to morning delight. The combination of ripe bananas and warm cinnamon not only elevates my mood but also fills my kitchen with a comforting aroma. It’s a recipe that’s quick to prepare and perfect for busy weekdays or leisurely weekends alike. Packed with wholesome ingredients, these squares are satisfying and help me kick-start my day on a sweet note.
Created by: Grace Walker
Recipe Type: Easy Baking Inspiration
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 12 squares
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond milk
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish (8x8 inches) with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, almond milk, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
In another bowl, mix the rolled oats, ground cinnamon, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
Pour the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients mixture. Stir until just combined. If using, fold in chopped walnuts or chocolate chips.
Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking dish and bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Carefully lift it out and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing into squares.
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or using a sprinkle of shredded coconut on top before baking.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 4g