Strawberry Banana Oatmeal Cups

Name: Strawberry Banana Oatmeal Cups
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 cups
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 1 ripe banana, mashed; 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 cup strawberries, chopped

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love starting my day with these delightful Strawberry Banana Oatmeal Cups. They're not only easy to make but also a perfect blend of flavors that keep me energized. The combination of oats, ripe bananas, and sweet strawberries creates a deliciously wholesome breakfast that I can grab on the go. Plus, they're a fantastic way to use up any ripe bananas you might have lying around. I promise, these cups will become a staple in your morning routine!

Created by

Sophia Lane

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:13:24.699Z

When I first tried making these Strawberry Banana Oatmeal Cups, I was amazed by how simple the process was. I usually struggle to find healthy breakfasts that satisfy my cravings, but this recipe was a game changer. The combination of oats and mashed bananas not only binds the mixture beautifully but also adds natural sweetness, reducing the need for added sugars.

One tip I discovered is to let the cups cool completely before removing them from the tray. This step makes a big difference in maintaining their shape. The first time, I was too eager to eat them and ended up with crumbled cups! Now, I enjoy them as a quick breakfast or a nutritious snack any time of the day.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Convenient and portable for busy mornings
Natural sweetness from bananas and strawberries
Easily customizable with other fruits or nuts
Perfect for meal prep and can be frozen

      

Mastering the Oatmeal Base

The foundation of these oatmeal cups is the mixture of rolled oats and liquid, which creates a tender yet chewy texture. The type of oats you choose matters; rolled oats are preferable in this recipe for their ability to absorb moisture while retaining their shape. Steel-cut oats, while healthy, will result in a much denser cup. Make sure to let your mixture sit for about 5 minutes before baking; this allows the oats to soak up some of the liquid, ensuring a softer bite.

Using ripe bananas not only serves as a natural sweetener but also helps bind the ingredients together, enhancing the moistness of the cups. If you have overripe bananas that are too soft for eating, they are perfect for this recipe as they mash easily. In case you don’t have ripe bananas on hand, you can use unsweetened applesauce as a substitute—just keep in mind that it will alter the flavor profile slightly.

Strawberry Variations

Although the classic combination of strawberries and bananas is a hit, feel free to switch up the fruits based on your preference or what you have available. Chopped apples, blueberries, or even diced peaches can provide fresh bursts of flavor. When using frozen fruit, be sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before incorporating, as this can help maintain the integrity of the oatmeal cup, preventing sogginess.

If you’d like a little crunch, consider adding nuts or seeds into the mix—chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds pair nicely. Just keep in mind that adding too many extras can affect the baking time and texture, so start with about 1/4 cup and adjust as you like. This flexibility opens up numerous variations, allowing you to create these oatmeal cups anew each week.

Ingredients

For the Oatmeal Cups

2 cups rolled oats
1 ripe banana, mashed
1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1 cup strawberries, chopped

Mix all the ingredients thoroughly for a uniform blend.

Instructions

Preheat Oven

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

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the rolled oats, mashed banana, milk, vanilla extract, baking powder, and cinnamon until well combined.

Add Strawberries

Gently fold in the chopped strawberries into the mixture.

Fill Muffin Tins

Scoop the mixture evenly into the prepared muffin tins, filling each about 3/4 full.

Bake

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

Cool and Serve

Let the oatmeal cups cool for a few minutes before removing them from the muffin tin.

Enjoy your delicious oatmeal cups warm or cold!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in some chopped nuts or a sprinkle of chocolate chips. You can also substitute the strawberries with any other favorite fruit.

Storing and Freezing

Once baked, these oatmeal cups can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, making them a perfect candidate for meal prep. For longer storage, they can also be frozen. Once the cups are completely cooled, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

To reheat, simply pop a cup in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds from the fridge or 1-2 minutes if frozen. This quick reheating makes them an ideal option for busy mornings when you need a nutritious breakfast in a hurry.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your oatmeal cups don't rise as much as you'd like, it may be due to an insufficient amount of baking powder or not allowing the mixture to rest before baking. Ensure you use fresh baking powder and mix it thoroughly with the dry ingredients to distribute its leavening power. If you find them too dry, it could be a matter of the oats absorbing too much liquid; adding a bit more milk can help achieve a moister texture.

Overbaking can lead to dry, crumbly oatmeal cups. Keep a close eye on them after the 18-minute mark; the tops should be golden and slightly firm to the touch. If you find they're browning too quickly, consider covering them loosely with foil to prevent burning while they finish baking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these oatmeal cups ahead of time?

Absolutely! They store well in the fridge for up to a week and can also be frozen for longer storage.

→ Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, but the texture may be slightly different. Rolled oats provide a better chew.

→ What non-dairy milk options work well?

Almond, oat, and coconut milk are great substitutes and add a nice flavor.

→ Can I add other fruits?

Definitely! Blueberries, raspberries, or even apples can be great additions.