Strawberry Banana Baked Oatmeal Cups

Name: Strawberry Banana Baked Oatmeal Cups
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 cups
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy); 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup strawberries, diced; 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Highlighted under: Feel-Good Healthy Eats

I love starting my day with these delightful Strawberry Banana Baked Oatmeal Cups. They are easy to whip up and perfect for a quick breakfast or snack. Packed with whole grains and vitamins from the fresh fruit, these cups are not just delicious but also wholesome. Plus, they are unbelievably versatile—feel free to swap in your favorite fruits or nuts! I often prepare a batch over the weekend, and they last perfectly in the fridge throughout the week. Enjoy them warmed up or cold, you can’t go wrong here!

Created by

Harper Collins

Last updated on 2026-02-10T17:05:36.145Z

When I decided to create these Strawberry Banana Baked Oatmeal Cups, I wanted something that offered the perfect balance of health and flavor. I found that baking the oatmeal gives it a delightful texture that sets it apart from regular oatmeal. Adding fresh strawberries and bananas not only enhances the taste but also makes breakfast feel special!

One thing I learned through this process is the importance of allowing the mixture to rest before baking. This helps the oats soak up the liquid, resulting in a more tender cup. Trust me, this small tip makes a big difference in the final outcome!

Why You'll Love These Cups
Sweet and fruity flavor that brightens your morning
Prep ahead for busy mornings or school lunches
Nutritious and filling, perfect for any time of the day

Choosing the Right Bananas

Selecting ripe bananas is crucial for achieving the perfect balance of sweetness and moisture in your baked oatmeal cups. Look for bananas that are heavily speckled with brown spots, as these indicate optimal ripeness. Riper bananas will not only impart extra sweetness but also blend more smoothly into the mix. If your bananas are overripe and have started to darken too much, don’t throw them away! Instead, you can mash them and freeze them for your next batch, maintaining their flavor and texture.

If you find yourself without ripe bananas, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a paper bag at room temperature. Additionally, if you're looking for a lower-sugar option, you can reduce the amount of brown sugar in the recipe since the bananas provide natural sweetness. You can also experiment with alternative sweeteners like maple syrup or agave nectar.

Customizing Your Oatmeal Cups

One of the best features of these Strawberry Banana Baked Oatmeal Cups is their versatility. While the original recipe highlights strawberries and bananas, feel free to interchange these fruits with whatever you have on hand. Blueberries, blackberries, or even diced apples can be wonderful substitutes that keep the vibrant flavors while offering various nutritional benefits. For a tropical twist, consider adding mango or pineapple for a zesty touch.

Nuts and seeds are fantastic additions that enhance the cups' texture and nutritional profile. If walnuts aren't your favorite, try pecans, almonds, or pumpkin seeds for added crunch. Additionally, for a nut-free version, you can replace the walnuts with sunflower seeds. When it comes to spices, adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dash of nutmeg can elevate the flavor profile and provide a warm, comforting aroma.

Ingredients

For the Cups

2 cups rolled oats
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
2 ripe bananas, mashed
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup strawberries, diced
1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Mix all ingredients in a bowl and you’re ready to bake!

Instructions

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a muffin tin by greasing it or using silicone liners.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix rolled oats, baking powder, salt, and brown sugar.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the milk, mashed bananas, and vanilla extract until well blended.

Combine Both Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix well. Gently fold in the strawberries and walnuts.

Fill Muffin Tin

Scoop the mixture into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until edges are golden and a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cups to cool for a few minutes before removing them from the tin. Enjoy warm or store in the fridge!

These cups can be stored in an airtight container for up to one week.

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute any other fruits such as blueberries or apples for a different flavor profile. You can also add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Preparing these oatmeal cups in advance is an excellent strategy for busy mornings. Once baked, allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for longer storage. To freeze, individually wrap each cup in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds or until warmed through.

For the best texture, avoid sogginess by not overbaking your oatmeal cups. You want a slightly golden edge and a firm center. If you’re unsure, use a toothpick to test; it should come out with a few moist crumbs rather than wet batter. This ensures your cups maintain a pleasant chewiness, making them enjoyable to eat straight from the fridge or reheated.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your oatmeal cups turn out too dry, this could be due to overbaking or an incorrect liquid-to-oats ratio. To combat dryness, make sure to measure your oats correctly without packing them down tightly. Also, consider adding a splash more milk if your mixture seems too thick before baking. Alternatively, topping the cups with a bit of almond milk or yogurt before serving can add moisture and enhance flavor.

In contrast, if your cups are too soggy, this might indicate underbaking or an excess of wet ingredients. Monitor your baking time closely—ovens can vary, and checking them a few minutes early can save your batch from turning out mushy. When adding fruits like strawberries, ensure they are not overly ripe or juicy, as they can release excess moisture during baking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these oatmeal cups gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply use certified gluten-free oats.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I use frozen fruits instead?

Yes, you can use frozen fruits, but make sure to thaw and drain them to prevent excess moisture.

→ Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can easily double the recipe and bake in two muffin tins!