Cinnamon Banana Breakfast Cups

Name: Cinnamon Banana Breakfast Cups
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 ripe bananas; 1 cup rolled oats; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 cup milk (or non-dairy alternative); 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional); Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love starting my mornings on a sweet note with these Cinnamon Banana Breakfast Cups. They’re not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. With ripe bananas and a hint of cinnamon, every bite feels like a warm embrace. Perfect for busy mornings or lazy weekends, these breakfast cups provide that perfect balance of flavors and textures. Plus, they can be prepared in just a few minutes, allowing me to enjoy a wholesome breakfast without the fuss of cooking.

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2026-01-15T12:55:10.506Z

When I first experimented with these Cinnamon Banana Breakfast Cups, I wanted to create a recipe that celebrated the natural sweetness of bananas. I found that baking the cups enhances the flavors, creating a delightful aroma that fills the kitchen. The addition of oats adds a satisfying texture and makes them perfect for breakfast or a snack.

Each time I make these breakfast cups, I adjust the spices and toppings based on what I have on hand. This flexibility allows me to be creative while ensuring every batch is delicious. I’ve found that a sprinkle of nuts on top not only enhances the crunch but also boosts the nutritional value.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The burst of sweetness from ripe bananas
Warm cinnamon flavor that comforts the soul
Versatile and can be customized with different toppings

      

The Magic of Ripe Bananas

Using ripe bananas is key to achieving the perfect sweetness in these breakfast cups. As bananas ripen, their starch content converts to sugar, providing natural sweetness that complements the cinnamon beautifully. Aim for bananas with plenty of brown spots, as these will mashes smoothly and lend a creamy texture to the mixture. This not only enhances flavor but also helps create a moist, chewy consistency in each cup.

Bananas also serve as a binding agent in this recipe, replacing the need for flour or eggs. This is particularly helpful for those following a vegan diet or looking to reduce allergens. The natural moisture from the bananas helps the other ingredients stick together while baking and prevents the texture from becoming dry or crumbly.

Tips for Perfect Baking

When baking these breakfast cups, keeping an eye on the time is crucial. After about 15 minutes, check for visual cues such as golden edges and a slightly firm texture on top. If they still appear soft or batter-like, give them a few extra minutes, checking every couple of minutes to prevent overbaking. Overcooking can lead to a dry texture, which we want to avoid for a satisfying bite.

If you find yourself without a muffin tin, consider using silicone molds or even ramekins. These alternatives will not only give you the same end result but will also make it easier to pop the cups out without them sticking. Just adjust your baking time as needed since different materials can affect cooking duration.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delightful breakfast cups:

Ingredients

4 ripe bananas
1 cup rolled oats
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/2 cup milk (or non-dairy alternative)
1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Pinch of salt

Gather these ingredients and get ready to start baking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your breakfast cups:

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a muffin tin.

Mash the Bananas

In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.

Combine Ingredients

Add the rolled oats, cinnamon, vanilla extract, honey, milk, and salt to the mashed bananas. Mix until well combined.

Pour into Muffin Tin

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

Add Toppings

If using, sprinkle chopped nuts on top of each cup for added crunch.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Cool and Serve

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

These breakfast cups are best enjoyed warm, but they also store well in the fridge for a quick snack later.

Pro Tips

To enhance the flavor, consider adding a few chocolate chips or dried fruits into the mixture before baking.

Ingredient Variations

Feel free to customize your breakfast cups with different toppings or mix-ins. For instance, swapping half the rolled oats with quick-cooking oats can yield a slightly different texture, making them more cake-like. You can also experiment with spices—try adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for an added flavor twist.

For a dairy-free version, coconut milk or almond milk works wonderfully in place of regular milk. Additionally, if you're looking for less sugar, reduce the amount of honey or maple syrup to suit your tastes; the natural sweetness from the ripe bananas will still shine through.

Storage and Reheating Suggestions

These breakfast cups are perfect for meal prep! After they cool completely, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you want to enjoy them later, you can also freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap each cup tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.

When ready to enjoy your breakfast cups, simply reheat them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or until warmed through. For a lovely touch, drizzle some extra honey or sprinkle a dash of cinnamon before serving. This little addition brings back that freshly-baked aroma and elevates the taste even further.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these breakfast cups ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture the night before and bake them in the morning.

→ What can I substitute for honey?

Maple syrup works great as a vegan alternative to honey.

→ Can I use other fruits?

Yes! You can add berries or apples for different flavors. Just adjust the sweetness accordingly.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.