Caramelized Banana Oatmeal Recipe
Introduction
This caramelized banana oatmeal is a warm, comforting breakfast that combines creamy oats with sweet, golden bananas. The caramelization adds a rich depth of flavor, making it feel like a special treat any morning of the week.

Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled/old fashioned oats
- 2 cups non-dairy milk (soy or almond recommended)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 2 bananas, sliced into disks
- 1-2 tablespoons refined coconut oil
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (plus more for topping if desired)
Instructions
- Step 1: Add the oats and non-dairy milk to a pot and bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Step 2: Reduce heat to low, then stir in cinnamon, salt, and vanilla extract. Let the mixture simmer, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency.
- Step 3: While the oatmeal cooks, heat the coconut oil and maple syrup in a large sauté pan over medium heat until it begins to sizzle.
- Step 4: Add the banana slices to the pan, preferably cut a little thicker, and cook for about 5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and caramelized.
- Step 5: Once the oatmeal is ready, transfer it to bowls and top with the caramelized bananas.
- Step 6: Drizzle additional maple syrup on top if desired, then finish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or your favorite nuts or nut butter for extra texture and flavor.
Tips & Variations
- Use ripe but firm bananas to prevent them from turning mushy during caramelization.
- Swap out coconut oil for vegan butter for a richer flavor.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom alongside cinnamon for a warm spice twist.
- Top with chopped walnuts, pecans, or a spoonful of almond butter for added crunch and protein.
- For creamier oatmeal, cook it longer on low heat and stir frequently.
Storage
Store leftover oatmeal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of non-dairy milk if needed to loosen the texture. It’s best to caramelize the bananas fresh when serving, but you can keep cooked bananas separately in the fridge for 1-2 days.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular milk instead of non-dairy milk?
Yes, regular dairy milk works well in this recipe if you don’t need it to be vegan or dairy-free.
What type of oats is best for this oatmeal?
Rolled or old-fashioned oats are ideal because they cook to a nice creamy texture without becoming too mushy. Instant oats can also be used but will cook faster and have a different texture.
Print
Caramelized Banana Oatmeal Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Caramelized Banana Oatmeal recipe combines creamy, warm oatmeal with sweet, golden caramelized bananas for a comforting and delicious breakfast. Made with rolled oats, non-dairy milk, fragrant cinnamon, and maple syrup, this dish is easy to prepare and perfect for a nourishing start to your day.
Ingredients
Oatmeal
- 1 cup rolled/old fashioned oats
- 2 cups non-dairy milk (soy or almond recommended)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
Caramelized Bananas
- 2 bananas, sliced into thick disks
- 1–2 tablespoons refined coconut oil
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (plus more for topping, if desired)
Instructions
- Bring liquid to boil: In a medium pot, combine the rolled oats and non-dairy milk, then bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Simmer oatmeal: Reduce the heat to low, add cinnamon, salt, and vanilla extract. Let the oatmeal simmer gently, stirring occasionally until it thickens to your desired consistency.
- Prepare bananas: While the oatmeal simmers, heat the coconut oil and maple syrup in a large sauté pan over medium heat until the mixture is sizzling.
- Caramelize bananas: Add the thickly sliced bananas to the pan. Cook each side for about 5 minutes or until they develop a nice golden brown caramelization.
- Assemble the dish: Once the oatmeal is fully cooked, transfer it to serving bowls and top with the caramelized bananas. Drizzle additional maple syrup on top if desired.
- Serve: Garnish with an extra pinch of cinnamon and optionally sprinkle crushed walnuts, pecans, or nut butter for added texture and flavor. Enjoy warm.
Notes
- Use thick banana slices to ensure they caramelize nicely without falling apart.
- Maple syrup adds a rich sweetness but can be adjusted to taste or substituted with honey if preferred.
- Refined coconut oil is used for a neutral flavor; unrefined may add a coconut aroma.
- Non-dairy milk options like soy or almond provide creaminess and keep this recipe vegan.
- For extra protein, add a spoonful of nut butter or seeds on top.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Caramelized Banana Oatmeal, Vegan Breakfast, Healthy Oatmeal Recipe, Maple Syrup Oatmeal, Dairy Free Breakfast

