Cinnamon Banana Breakfast Cups

Name: Cinnamon Banana Breakfast Cups
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 cups
Ingredients: 3 ripe bananas, mashed; 2 cups rolled oats; 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based); 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Chopped nuts; Sliced bananas; A drizzle of honey

Highlighted under: Fresh Recipes

I love starting my day with these Cinnamon Banana Breakfast Cups. They are the perfect blend of wholesome ingredients and delightful flavors, making breakfast a treat rather than a chore. Each cup is filled with the sweetness of ripe bananas, warm spices, and a hint of vanilla, all wrapped up in a golden, crisp shell. I enjoy making them ahead of time, allowing me to savor a delicious breakfast on busy mornings without compromising on taste or nutrition.

Created by

Greer Montgomery

Last updated on 2026-01-15T13:41:36.572Z

When I first tried making these Cinnamon Banana Breakfast Cups, I was amazed at how simple and delicious they turned out. The combination of cinnamon and banana is a classic that never disappoints. I found that using ripe bananas gives the cups a natural sweetness, allowing me to reduce added sugars while still enjoying a delicious treat.

One tip I discovered along the way is to let the mixture sit for a few minutes before filling the cups. This allows the oats to absorb the moisture from the bananas, creating a better texture. It’s these little adjustments that make all the difference in achieving that perfect bite!

Why You'll Love These Cups
Sweet and fragrant combination of cinnamon and banana
Healthy, satisfying breakfast option that keeps you full
Easy to prepare and great for meal prep on busy mornings

Perfecting the Cups

Achieving the right texture for your Cinnamon Banana Breakfast Cups is key to their success. The combination of mashed bananas and rolled oats forms a delightful foundation. Ensure your bananas are well-mashed to incorporate easily, which helps to create a moist interior. If the mixture looks too dry after mixing, feel free to add an extra tablespoon of milk; this can enhance the final texture.

When filling your muffin tin, aim for a three-quarters fill to allow the cups to rise without spilling over. If you’re using a non-stick muffin tin, a light spray may be sufficient, but for optimal results, I recommend using a silicone muffin mold. This will not only prevent sticking but also make it easier to remove the cups once they've cooled, ensuring they keep their shape.

Smart Freezing and Reheating

These breakfast cups are truly versatile and can be made ahead of time. To freeze, cool them completely after baking, then individually wrap each cup in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave for about 30-40 seconds, or until warmed through.

If you're looking to mix things up, consider adding a handful of dark chocolate chips or dried fruit such as cranberries or raisins to the batter. This not only introduces new flavors but also adds nutritional benefits. Just be cautious not to overload the mixture, as too many add-ins can alter the baking time and the structural integrity of the cups.

Ingredients

For the Breakfast Cups

3 ripe bananas, mashed
2 cups rolled oats
1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

For Garnish (optional)

Chopped nuts
Sliced bananas
A drizzle of honey

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, rolled oats, milk, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Stir well until everything is evenly mixed.

Let the Mixture Sit

Allow the mixture to sit for about 5-10 minutes, letting the oats absorb the moisture from the bananas.

Fill the Muffin Tin

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

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the cups cool in the muffin tin for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy warm or store in the refrigerator for later!

Pro Tips

You can customize these cups by adding chocolate chips, dried fruits, or even nut butter for an extra flavor boost!

Ingredient Variations

While the base recipe is wonderful as is, you can easily tailor the ingredients to fit dietary needs. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk work beautifully in place of regular milk. For those who need a sugar-free alternative, you might try unsweetened applesauce in place of honey or maple syrup, adjusting the quantity to taste.

In addition to the traditional cinnamon flavor, you could experiment with spices such as nutmeg or pumpkin spice for seasonal variations. This provides an exciting twist and can elevate the flavor profile, making each batch feel fresh and new yet still comforting.

Serving Suggestions

These breakfast cups are delightful on their own, but you can easily elevate your serving experience. For a decadent treat, serve them warm with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of granola on top. Drizzle with honey or maple syrup right before serving for a touch of extra sweetness that perfectly complements the cinnamon and banana.

For a more filling breakfast, pair these cups with a side of fresh fruit or a smoothie. The combination not only rounds out the meal but also adds vibrant colors and additional nutrients to your breakfast. It's a great way to ensure you start your day off on the right foot, feeling satisfied and energized.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, but the texture may be different. Rolled oats provide a heartier bite.

→ Can I make these dairy-free?

Absolutely! Just use a plant-based milk like almond, soy, or oat milk.

→ How should I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I freeze these breakfast cups?

Yes, you can freeze them. Just ensure they are fully cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe container.