Banana Nut Bread Overnight Oats: Your Favorite Loaf Reimagined for Breakfast
If you’re a fan of banana nut bread, you’re going to fall in love with this wholesome twist on a classic: Banana Nut Bread Overnight Oats. This recipe delivers all the warm, comforting flavors of the beloved loaf—ripe bananas, toasted walnuts, cinnamon, and maple sweetness—in a cool, creamy breakfast that practically makes itself overnight.
Perfect for anyone with a busy morning schedule, this recipe is a dream for meal preppers, students, families, or anyone trying to eat more nourishing, homemade meals without the hassle. With simple ingredients and five minutes of prep, these oats are proof that delicious, healthy breakfasts don’t need to be complicated.
Who Is This Recipe For?
Banana Nut Bread Overnight Oats are perfect for:
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Banana bread lovers looking for a quick and healthy breakfast alternative
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Busy professionals and students who want grab-and-go options
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Parents who want to offer kids a nutritious and fun breakfast
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Fitness-focused eaters needing a good balance of carbs, protein, and healthy fats
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Plant-based eaters who enjoy dairy-free meal prep ideas
This recipe is a cozy, nostalgic breakfast that satisfies your sweet tooth while keeping you full and energized for hours. It’s hearty, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable.
Why You’ll Love Banana Nut Bread Overnight Oats
Here’s why this recipe is a standout:
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All the cozy vibes – It tastes like banana nut bread fresh from the oven, only it’s chilled and spoonable.
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Meal prep magic – You can make a batch for the week in under 20 minutes.
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Versatile & customizable – Easily adjust ingredients to fit dietary needs.
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Naturally sweetened – Ripe banana and a drizzle of maple syrup give just the right amount of sweetness.
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Nutrient-packed – Oats, banana, and walnuts bring fiber, potassium, healthy fats, and plant-based protein.
Ingredients for Banana Nut Bread Overnight Oats
To bring this comforting breakfast together, you’ll need the following:
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1/2 cup rolled oats – Use old-fashioned rolled oats for the best texture.
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1/2 cup milk (any kind) – Dairy or plant-based options work equally well.
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1/2 banana, mashed – Adds natural sweetness and classic banana bread flavor.
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2 tablespoons chopped walnuts – For that nutty crunch and heart-healthy fats.
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1 tablespoon maple syrup – A touch of sweetness that balances the earthiness.
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1/2 teaspoon cinnamon – Essential for that warm, spiced banana bread profile.
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1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds aroma and depth.
Optional Add-Ins:
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A pinch of nutmeg
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Chia seeds or ground flaxseed for extra fiber
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A dollop of Greek yogurt or nut butter on top
How to Make Banana Nut Bread Overnight Oats
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Mash the Banana
In a bowl or jar, mash half a ripe banana until smooth. -
Combine Ingredients
Add the rolled oats, milk, chopped walnuts, maple syrup, cinnamon, and vanilla extract to the jar. Stir everything together until well combined. -
Refrigerate Overnight
Cover the jar with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight. -
Stir & Serve
In the morning, give the oats a good stir. Top with extra walnuts, banana slices, or a drizzle of nut butter if desired. Enjoy cold, or microwave for 30 seconds if you prefer it warm.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
You don’t need a lot to make these oats happen. Here’s what you’ll want on hand:
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Measuring cups and spoons
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A medium bowl or mason jar
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A spoon or fork for mixing
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Airtight lid or plastic wrap for covering
Optional but helpful: a potato masher or mini whisk for smoothing the banana.
Tips, Tricks, and Shortcuts
Ripen Bananas Fast
Need a ripe banana in a hurry? Pop it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10–15 minutes until the skin blackens. Let it cool and mash.
Batch Prep for the Week
Scale the recipe up to fill 3–5 jars at once. Just don’t add toppings like fresh banana until the morning you eat them to avoid browning.
Adjust Sweetness
Use more or less maple syrup to suit your taste—or skip it altogether if your banana is super ripe.
Boost the Protein
Stir in a scoop of vanilla protein powder, chia seeds, or Greek yogurt for a more filling breakfast.
Vegan or Dairy-Free Version
Use almond, oat, soy, or coconut milk to keep things plant-based. Maple syrup is already vegan!
Recipe Variations
Love switching things up? Try one of these delicious variations:
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Chocolate Banana Nut Oats – Stir in 1 teaspoon of cocoa powder or a few dark chocolate chips.
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Peanut Butter Banana Oats – Add a tablespoon of peanut butter and top with banana coins.
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Tropical Twist – Add shredded coconut and swap walnuts for macadamia nuts.
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Pumpkin Banana Bread Oats – Mix in 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree and a dash of nutmeg.
How to Store and Serve
Storing
Keep your overnight oats in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This makes them ideal for weekday breakfasts.
If you’re prepping multiple servings, store in individual jars to grab and go.
Serving
You can enjoy them:
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Cold – Straight from the fridge for a cool, refreshing breakfast.
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Warm – Heat in the microwave for 30–60 seconds if you prefer your oats cozy and soft.
Top with extra banana slices, a drizzle of honey or maple syrup, crushed walnuts, or a dash of cinnamon for a picture-perfect bowl.
Pairing Suggestions
Beverage Pairings:
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Coffee with cinnamon or nut milk
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Vanilla chai latte
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Banana smoothie for a double banana hit
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Hot black tea or rooibos
Food Pairings:
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A hard-boiled egg for added protein
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Greek yogurt with a drizzle of honey
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Fruit salad or berries on the side
This recipe is sweet, creamy, and satisfying on its own, but it also plays well with simple sides if you’re building a larger brunch plate.
FAQ: Banana Nut Bread Overnight Oats
Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?
Steel-cut oats won’t soften enough without cooking. Stick to rolled oats or quick oats for best results.
Do I have to use walnuts?
Nope! Swap with pecans, almonds, or sunflower seeds—or leave them out entirely.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if you use certified gluten-free oats.
Can I freeze overnight oats?
Technically yes, but the texture changes. It’s best to enjoy them fresh from the fridge.
What if I don’t like bananas?
Try applesauce or mashed sweet potato as a substitute, though the flavor will differ.
How do I make it thicker?
Reduce the milk slightly, or stir in chia seeds or Greek yogurt before refrigerating.
Your New Favorite Make-Ahead Breakfast
Banana Nut Bread Overnight Oats are more than just a breakfast—they’re a comforting, nostalgic treat you can feel good about eating every day. With whole-food ingredients, a touch of sweetness, and that signature banana bread flavor, it’s hard not to love this simple, satisfying recipe.
Whether you’re trying to eat healthier, simplify your mornings, or just add some variety to your meal prep, this one’s a winner.
