These One-Bowl Banana Bread Oatmeal Cups are the perfect combination of convenience, flavor, and nutrition. Made with wholesome ingredients like oats, peanut butter, and bananas, these oatmeal cups are packed with fiber and protein, making them an ideal grab-and-go breakfast or snack. With only one bowl to clean, they’re incredibly easy to make and can be customized with your favorite add-ins. These healthy muffins are the perfect balance of sweetness, flavor, and energy to keep you fueled throughout the day.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 180 grams (⅔ cup) Greek yogurt
- 120 ml (⅓ cup + 1 tbsp) maple syrup or honey
- 30 ml (2 tbsp) canola oil or preferred oil
- 220 grams (1 ¾ cup) whole-wheat flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ⅙ tsp salt
- Up to 30 ml (2 tbsp) milk of choice if necessary
- 50 grams (¼ cup) chocolate chips
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a 12-cavity muffin tin with muffin liners. Grease the liners to prevent sticking.
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs with Greek yogurt, maple syrup, canola oil, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
- Add the whole-wheat flour and baking powder to the wet ingredients and stir until the batter becomes smooth. If the mixture is too thick, add up to 2 tablespoons of milk to adjust the consistency.
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips.
- Fill each muffin liner about two-thirds full with batter. Sprinkle more chocolate chips on top and bake for 20 to 25 minutes.
- The muffins are ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove them from the oven and let them cool for 15-30 minutes on a baking rack.
Nutrients
- Calories: 153.6
- Carbohydrates: 23.3g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 5.1g
- Saturated Fat: 1.4g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.1g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0.01g
- Cholesterol: 31.8mg
- Sodium: 124.7mg
- Potassium: 122.3mg
- Fiber: 2.3g
- Sugar: 6.6g
- Vitamin A: 47.3IU
- Calcium: 80.7mg
- Iron: 1.1mg
The Convenience of One-Bowl Baking
One of the main appeals of these banana bread oatmeal cups is the convenience of making them in just one bowl. Traditional banana bread or muffin recipes often require multiple bowls and various steps, making the process time-consuming and messy. With this recipe, you can skip the extra dishes and make your oatmeal cups in a quick, easy process that’s perfect for anyone with a busy schedule. Whether you’re rushing in the morning or preparing a batch for meal prep, the simplicity of using just one bowl makes these oatmeal cups an excellent choice for anyone looking to save time without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. Less clean-up and a minimal effort make this recipe perfect for those who want to enjoy homemade, healthy baked goods with the least amount of hassle.
The Benefits of Oats
Oats are the heart of this recipe, offering a great base for the oatmeal cups while providing a wealth of nutritional benefits. Oats are rich in soluble fiber, which can help lower cholesterol, regulate blood sugar levels, and support heart health. They also provide a good amount of protein, making these oatmeal cups a filling and satisfying meal that will keep you full longer. The fiber in oats also aids in digestion and promotes a healthy gut, making them a great choice for improving overall digestive health. Oats are also an excellent source of B vitamins, including thiamine and folate, which support energy production and help maintain a healthy nervous system. By using oats in this recipe, you get a nutritious and hearty base that is both filling and energizing.
The Power of Bananas
Bananas are another key ingredient in these oatmeal cups, adding natural sweetness and moisture while also boosting the nutritional profile. Bananas are rich in potassium, which is essential for heart and muscle function, and they also provide a good amount of vitamin C, which supports immune health. The natural sugars in bananas are healthier alternatives to refined sugars, offering a subtle sweetness that perfectly complements the other ingredients in the oatmeal cups. Bananas also provide fiber, which contributes to digestive health and helps promote feelings of fullness. The addition of mashed bananas in this recipe not only enhances the flavor and texture of the oatmeal cups but also adds to their overall nutritional value.
Peanut Butter: A Source of Healthy Fats and Protein
Peanut butter is used in this recipe to add both flavor and nutrition. It provides healthy monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce bad cholesterol levels and support heart health. Peanut butter is also a good source of protein, making these oatmeal cups even more filling and satisfying. The addition of peanut butter creates a rich, creamy texture that balances well with the oats and bananas. While peanut butter adds richness, it also brings a slightly nutty flavor that complements the natural sweetness of the bananas and enhances the overall taste of the oatmeal cups. When choosing peanut butter for this recipe, opt for a natural variety without added sugar or hydrogenated oils to ensure you are keeping the recipe as healthy as possible.
Maple Syrup: Natural Sweetness
To sweeten the oatmeal cups, maple syrup is used, providing a natural alternative to refined sugars. Maple syrup is not only lower on the glycemic index than traditional sugar, which means it causes a slower rise in blood sugar, but it also contains trace minerals such as manganese and zinc, which support immune function and help maintain healthy skin. The warm, rich flavor of maple syrup pairs perfectly with the banana and peanut butter, creating a harmonious sweetness that isn’t overpowering. By using maple syrup in place of refined sugar, these oatmeal cups remain healthier while still offering the comforting sweetness we all crave in a baked treat.
Eggs and Greek Yogurt for Protein and Texture
Eggs and Greek yogurt are key ingredients in these oatmeal cups, adding both texture and protein. The eggs help bind the ingredients together, creating a soft and tender muffin-like texture. Greek yogurt not only adds creaminess but also contributes a healthy dose of protein and probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health. Greek yogurt is also a great source of calcium, which supports bone health, and the protein content helps to keep you feeling satisfied. The combination of eggs and yogurt ensures that these oatmeal cups are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients that support overall health and well-being.
Baking with Whole-Wheat Flour
Whole-wheat flour is used in these oatmeal cups as a healthier alternative to refined flour. Whole-wheat flour retains the bran, germ, and endosperm of the wheat kernel, providing more fiber and essential nutrients than refined flour. The fiber in whole-wheat flour supports digestion and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels, while the additional vitamins and minerals such as iron and magnesium contribute to overall health. The hearty, slightly nutty flavor of whole-wheat flour also pairs well with the other ingredients in the oatmeal cups, creating a more complex and satisfying flavor profile. By using whole-wheat flour, these oatmeal cups are more filling and provide a better nutritional profile than those made with white flour.
The Versatility of Add-ins
One of the best things about these One-Bowl Banana Bread Oatmeal Cups is how customizable they are. You can easily add your favorite ingredients to personalize the flavor and texture. For instance, you could add nuts like walnuts or almonds for a crunchy contrast, or throw in some dried fruit like raisins or cranberries for extra sweetness and fiber. If you like a little extra sweetness, consider adding a tablespoon of dark chocolate chips, which would complement the banana and peanut butter beautifully. You can also experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to add warmth and depth of flavor. The possibilities are endless, and you can adjust the recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs, making these oatmeal cups the perfect versatile snack or breakfast option.
A Grab-and-Go Breakfast or Snack
These One-Bowl Banana Bread Oatmeal Cups are perfect for anyone with a busy lifestyle. They make an excellent grab-and-go breakfast, allowing you to enjoy a wholesome meal without having to spend time preparing something in the morning. You can bake a batch at the beginning of the week and store them in the refrigerator for a quick and nutritious snack or breakfast throughout the week. They’re also portable, making them an ideal option for busy mornings when you need something to eat on your way out the door. Whether you’re headed to work, school, or just running errands, these oatmeal cups provide the perfect solution for a filling and healthy meal.
Conclusion
These One-Bowl Banana Bread Oatmeal Cups are the perfect combination of convenience, flavor, and nutrition. With wholesome ingredients like oats, peanut butter, and bananas, these oatmeal cups are packed with fiber, protein, and healthy fats, making them an ideal option for breakfast, snacks, or a light dessert. The simplicity of the recipe, combined with the option to customize with your favorite add-ins, makes these oatmeal cups a versatile and delicious choice for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick, nourishing breakfast or a satisfying snack to fuel your day, these oatmeal cups are sure to hit the spot. Plus, with only one bowl to clean, they’re incredibly easy to make and even easier to enjoy. These healthy muffins will quickly become a staple in your kitchen!