Description
This Caramelized Banana Split Overnight Oats recipe combines creamy oats infused with warm cinnamon and chia seeds, topped with buttery caramelized bananas, fresh blueberries, almond butter, vegan yogurt, and crunchy granola. This nutritious and satisfying breakfast is quick to prep, features optional protein and veggies for added nutrition, and offers a delicious twist on classic overnight oats with a fried banana topping.
Ingredients
Scale
Oat Base
- 1 cup cashew milk (or milk of choice)
- 1/2 cup gluten-free rolled oats (or regular rolled oats)
- 1/4 cup chopped or shredded zucchini (optional, for extra creaminess and nutrition)
- 1–2 scoops protein powder (optional, for added protein)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Caramelized Banana
- 1 banana, halved lengthwise
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil (for frying)
Toppings
- Blueberries (fresh or frozen)
- Almond butter (or nut butter of choice)
- Vegan yogurt (optional, for added creaminess)
- Granola (for crunch)
Instructions
- Prepare the oat mixture: In a bowl or jar, combine the cashew milk, gluten-free rolled oats, optional chopped zucchini, protein powder if using, chia seeds, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to mix all ingredients thoroughly.
- Refrigerate overnight: Cover the mixture and place it in the refrigerator to soak and thicken overnight or for at least 5 hours. This allows the oats and chia seeds to absorb the liquid and develop a creamy texture.
- Caramelize the banana: When ready to serve, heat 1 teaspoon of coconut oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the banana halves cut side down and cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the banana is golden brown and caramelized. Flip carefully and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to warm through.
- Assemble the banana split oats: Spoon the soaked overnight oats into serving bowls. Arrange the caramelized banana halves on top, add a handful of blueberries, dollops of almond butter, optional vegan yogurt, and sprinkle with granola for added texture and crunch.
- Serve and enjoy: Enjoy your delicious and nutritious caramelized banana split overnight oats immediately for a satisfying breakfast or snack.
Notes
- The shredded zucchini is optional but adds creaminess and a subtle vegetable boost without altering the flavor significantly.
- Protein powder is optional and can be any plant-based or whey protein according to preference.
- Use coconut oil or any neutral oil for caramelizing bananas for best flavor.
- Blueberries can be fresh or frozen depending on availability.
- Granola adds a crunchy texture; substitute with nuts or seeds if preferred.
- The oats soak better when refrigerated overnight but can be prepared in as little as 5 hours if needed.
