Cinnamon Banana Breakfast Cups

Name: Cinnamon Banana Breakfast Cups
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 cup rolled oats; 1/2 cup almond milk (or any milk of choice); 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Clean Healthy Food Inspiration

I absolutely love starting my day with these Cinnamon Banana Breakfast Cups! They are the perfect balance of sweetness and spice, bringing comfort to my morning routine. I enjoy how easy they are to prepare, and they make for a delightful grab-and-go option when I’m pressed for time. Each cup is a delightful bite of flavor, thanks to the fresh bananas and aromatic cinnamon that come together beautifully. Whether I’m having guests over for brunch or just enjoying a quiet morning, these breakfast cups never disappoint!

Created by

Nicola Fairchild

Last updated on 2026-01-15T21:01:36.325Z

When I first tried making these Cinnamon Banana Breakfast Cups, I was amazed at how simple and satisfying they turned out. The warm aroma of cinnamon filled my kitchen, as I mixed ripe bananas with just the right spices. The method works so well because the bananas naturally sweeten the mixture, allowing you to use less added sugar while still keeping the flavors vibrant.

One thing that really enhances these cups is letting the mixture rest before baking. This helps the oats absorb the moisture and results in a perfectly chewy texture that pairs wonderfully with the creamy banana flavor. Trust me; this is a breakfast you won’t want to miss!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Warm, comforting flavors combining sweet banana and fragrant cinnamon
Perfectly portable for busy mornings or lazy brunches
Healthier breakfast option that doesn’t sacrifice taste

Understanding the Flavor Profile

The combination of ripe bananas and warm spices creates a truly delightful flavor profile. The natural sugars in ripe bananas not only provide sweetness but also contribute to the moist texture of each breakfast cup. When combined with cinnamon and nutmeg, the result is a comforting harmony that makes these cups taste indulgent yet wholesome. If you want to experiment, consider adding a sprinkle of ginger for an extra kick, enhancing the spiciness without overpowering the primary flavors.

Each ingredient plays a specific role in achieving the ideal texture. The rolled oats provide a satisfying chewiness, while the almond milk binds everything together, ensuring the cups hold their shape after baking. The addition of a pinch of salt amplifies the sweetness of the bananas, offering a balanced flavor that you'll enjoy at first bite. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, certified gluten-free oats work perfectly and won't compromise the texture.

Helpful Tips for Perfect Cups

Baking times can vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on the breakfast cups as they approach the 18-minute mark. Look for golden edges and a firm top. If you insert a toothpick and it comes out clean, they’re ready to be taken out. If you notice the edges browning too quickly, rotate the muffin tin halfway through baking to ensure even cooking.

To ensure easy removal from the muffin tin, consider using silicone muffin cups. They allow for effortless release without the risk of sticking. If you’re using paper liners, let the cups cool in the tin for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to prevent them from becoming soggy. If you’re short on time, you can also prepare the mixture the night before and bake it in the morning.

Ingredients

For the Cups

2 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup almond milk (or any milk of choice)
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it well.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, rolled oats, almond milk, cinnamon, nutmeg, honey (if using), vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until well combined.

Fill the Muffin Tin

Spoon the mixture evenly into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the tops are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cups to cool for a few minutes before removing from the tin. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins like chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit to make these breakfast cups even more delicious!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Cinnamon Banana Breakfast Cups store beautifully! Once cooled, you can place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy a quick breakfast option even on your busiest mornings. Just heat them in the microwave for about 30 seconds before eating.

If you're preparing for a larger group, simply double the recipe and use two muffin tins. Keep in mind that baking times might be slightly longer if you're baking both tins at the same time, so check for doneness as mentioned earlier. Alternatively, you could make mini cups or a larger baked oatmeal dish. Adjust the baking time accordingly by keeping an eye on it.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These breakfast cups serve wonderfully on their own, but you can elevate the experience by adding toppings. A dollop of Greek yogurt or a smear of almond butter adds creaminess and protein, making the meal even more satisfying. Fresh sliced strawberries or blueberries can enhance the visual presentation as well as the flavor. Another option is to drizzle with a bit more honey if you prefer a touch of extra sweetness.

For a twist, consider incorporating other fruits like apples or berries into the mixture, adjusting the spices accordingly. Chopped walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch, and if you want a hint of chocolate, toss in some dark chocolate chips before baking. This flexibility allows you to customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences while maintaining the delightful essence of the original dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, quick oats can be used, but the texture may be slightly different.

→ How should I store the leftover cups?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze these breakfast cups?

Absolutely! They freeze well; just reheat them in the microwave or oven when ready to eat.

→ What can I substitute for bananas?

You can use applesauce or mashed sweet potatoes for a different flavor, but it will alter the taste slightly.