Cinnamon Banana Yogurt Bake
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I absolutely love indulging in a warm and comforting dessert, and this Cinnamon Banana Yogurt Bake is one of my all-time favorites. The combination of creamy yogurt and ripe bananas, spiced with fragrant cinnamon, creates a delightful treat that is perfect for breakfast or dessert. I enjoy how simple it is to prepare, and it fills the kitchen with a wonderful aroma while baking. Each bite is a comforting hug, making it an ideal recipe for those cozy weekends when you want something special without any fuss.
When I first created this Cinnamon Banana Yogurt Bake, I was trying to find a way to use up some overripe bananas. The result was nothing short of delicious! The yogurt adds a creamy tang, while the bananas provide natural sweetness, enhanced by a hint of cinnamon that ties everything together perfectly.
One key detail I discovered is to let the batter sit for a few minutes before baking. This allows the flavors to meld and the baking soda to activate, resulting in a fluffy texture. I can't believe how wonderfully this dish turns out every time!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich flavor of bananas enhanced by cinnamon
- Creamy yogurt base that adds moisture
- Easy to prepare and perfect for any time of day
Ingredient Roles
In this Cinnamon Banana Yogurt Bake, the ripe bananas serve as both a natural sweetener and a moisture source, contributing to the dessert's rich texture. Their flavor deepens with baking, creating a luscious base infused with sweetness, which pairs perfectly with cinnamon. If your bananas are not overripe yet, don't worry; a few minutes in the oven will soften them and enhance their natural sugars.
Yogurt is another star ingredient. It gives a creamy consistency that helps bind the batter while adding protein and tang. I prefer using plain yogurt to keep the flavors balanced. You can swap it with Greek yogurt for an even richer texture, but remember, Greek yogurt has a thicker consistency; you might want to adjust the amount slightly by using a bit less or adding a touch of milk.
Baking and Texture Tips
When baking, keep an eye on your dish around the 25-minute mark, which is when you might notice the top starting to turn golden. This is a good indicator that the bake is progressing well. Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean with just a few moist crumbs, indicating the perfect texture. If the top starts browning too quickly, you can loosely cover it with aluminum foil for the remaining baking time.
Letting the bake cool before slicing is crucial; it allows the structure to set and makes for more even cuts. Cutting too soon can lead to a breadcrumb-like crumble instead of clean slices. If you prefer a bit more crunch, consider adding an extra handful of nuts on top before baking to achieve a delightful roasted flavor.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to make your Cinnamon Banana Yogurt Bake:
Ingredients
- 4 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 cups plain yogurt
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Mix these ingredients to create a deliciously baked treat!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to bake your Cinnamon Banana Yogurt Bake:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with a bit of oil or non-stick spray.
Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, yogurt, honey or maple syrup, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
Add Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix together the oats, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
Incorporate Nuts
If using chopped nuts, gently fold them into the batter until evenly distributed.
Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Let the bake cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy!
Once baked, this treat can be enjoyed warm or stored for later!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, consider mixing in some dried fruit or chocolate chips before baking. You can also experiment with different spices such as nutmeg or cardamom to suit your taste.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
This Cinnamon Banana Yogurt Bake is an excellent option for meal prepping. You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three days, and the flavors will actually deepen as it sits. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds, or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 10 minutes.
For longer-term storage, this bake freezes beautifully. After it has cooled completely, slice it into portions and wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator when you're ready to enjoy, or heat directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to maintain that warm, comforting texture.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
This dessert is incredibly versatile! Enjoy it as-is, or top it with a dollop of whipped cream, yogurt, or a drizzle of honey for added indulgence. Fresh fruit such as sliced strawberries, blueberries, or even a sprinkle of nuts can enhance both flavor and presentation. A touch of maple syrup or a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top can elevate its appeal for serving at brunch.
For variations, feel free to experiment with spices. Adding a pinch of nutmeg or even ginger can add an extra layer of warmth and complexity to the flavor profile. If you're feeling adventurous, swap out half of the rolled oats for cooked quinoa or chia seeds for an unexpected twist and additional nutritional benefits.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use non-dairy yogurt?
Yes, non-dairy yogurt works well as a substitute. Just choose a flavor that complements bananas.
→ How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze this bake?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked batter in a freezer-safe dish. Just thaw before baking.
→ Is this recipe suitable for breakfast?
Absolutely! It's a nutritious and filling option for a breakfast treat.
Cinnamon Banana Yogurt Bake
I absolutely love indulging in a warm and comforting dessert, and this Cinnamon Banana Yogurt Bake is one of my all-time favorites. The combination of creamy yogurt and ripe bananas, spiced with fragrant cinnamon, creates a delightful treat that is perfect for breakfast or dessert. I enjoy how simple it is to prepare, and it fills the kitchen with a wonderful aroma while baking. Each bite is a comforting hug, making it an ideal recipe for those cozy weekends when you want something special without any fuss.
Created by: Mia Jefferson
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 4 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 cups plain yogurt
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with a bit of oil or non-stick spray.
In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, yogurt, honey or maple syrup, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
In a separate bowl, mix together the oats, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
If using chopped nuts, gently fold them into the batter until evenly distributed.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
Let the bake cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy!
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, consider mixing in some dried fruit or chocolate chips before baking. You can also experiment with different spices such as nutmeg or cardamom to suit your taste.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 6g