There are few things that make me happier than a nutritious, healthy breakfast recipe for kids I can make ahead of time, and this one fits that criteria—with the added benefit of it being SO much easier to eat than a bowl of oatmeal. Little hands can pick it up and eat it, we can eat it with one hand while we do all of the other things (if needed), and it’s even great packed as an on-the-go meal. Oatmeal cups, essentially all of the ingredients you use to make a healthy oatmeal recipe baked into a muffin shape, are versatile and delicious. They’re one of my favorite oatmeal recipes for kids and they’re also a yummy iron-rich food for kids, too. We love these best slightly warmed with butter and maple syrup, but they are also yummy cold or at room temperature—plain! (You may also like Peaches and Cream Oatmeal, Blueberry Banana Baked Oatmeal, Banana Oatmeal Bars, and Banana Oatmeal Muffins.)
Ingredients You Need
Here’s a look at the ingredients you need to make this easy breakfast recipe to share with the kids. Sign up for our email updates to get tips and ideas sent to your inbox.
Rolled oats (old-fashioned oatmeal): This forms the base of the baked oatmeal cups, so look for it in your cereal aisle. Ground flaxseed (or chia seeds or additional oats): Adding this ingredient further helps the batter to hold together nicely. And it adds beneficial fats and fiber. You can simply use more oats if you don’t have any. Cinnamon: I like to add cinnamon to most of my banana baked goods so I use it here. You can use a pinch of cardamom or nutmeg instead, if you prefer. Milk: I typically bake with whole dairy milk, but you can use any type you prefer, including dairy-free milk such as almond milk. Ripe banana: I like to add ripe banana to the base of my oatmeal cups for extra sweetness. In this recipe, it also helps to bind the mixture together without eggs. (To make this without banana, use unsweetened applesauce.) Pure maple syrup: A little maple syrup in the batter ensures that the flavors come through with natural, yummy sweetness. Vanilla: I add vanilla extract to this recipe to round out the flavors. You can use pure vanilla extract or imitation. Chocolate chips, sliced strawberries, raspberries or sliced fruit to top (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here is an overview of how to make this oatmeal cup recipe so you know what to expect from the process. Scroll down to the end of the post for the full recipe, including the amounts and the timing.
How to Store
Store leftover oatmeal cups in an airtight container for up to a week. Or freeze for up to 6 months in a freezer bag with as much air removed as possible. Warm through in 15 second increments in the microwave on a heat-safe plate to serve. You can also pack them in a kids lunchbox or as a snack to be eaten cold or at room temperature like any other muffin.
Best Tips for Success
Top oatmeal cups with a sliver of butter and maple syrup. Or try nut butter such as peanut butter or almond butter. They are also great warm with a little chocolate hazelnut spread. Use applesauce or Apple Puree in place of the banana to make apple baked oatmeal cups if desired. Use certified gluten-free rolled oats to make these gluten-free. Use nondairy milk to make this recipe dairy-free. Double the batch to use as breakfast meal prep and stash half into the freezer for a future week. Use fresh berries or frozen berries. I prefer to bake with a nonstick muffin tin coated with nonstick spray for best results. If you have more oatmeal, try my Apple Oatmeal Muffins.
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