Cinnamon Banana Breakfast Squares
Highlighted under: Easy Kitchen
I love starting my morning with a burst of flavor, and these Cinnamon Banana Breakfast Squares do just that. With a rich blend of ripe bananas and aromatic cinnamon, they offer a delightful balance of sweetness and spice that gets my day off to a great start. These squares are not only quick to bake but also perfect for on-the-go breakfasts. It’s hard to resist their warm, comforting aroma wafting through the kitchen, making them an immediate family favorite!
When I first made these Cinnamon Banana Breakfast Squares for my family, I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly they disappeared. The combination of mashed ripe bananas and cinnamon creates a moist and fluffy texture that pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee in the morning. I love adding a sprinkle of nuts on top for an extra crunch.
One of my favorite tips is to let the mixture sit for a few minutes before baking. This allows the flavors to meld and ensures each bite is as tasty as possible. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a staple in your breakfast rotation!
Why You'll Love These Squares
- A perfect blend of sweetness and spice
- Healthy and great for meal prep
- Ideal for breakfast on busy mornings
Perfecting the Texture
Achieving the right texture in these Cinnamon Banana Breakfast Squares is essential for the best experience. The bananas not only provide natural sweetness but also contribute moisture, ensuring the squares remain soft and chewy. Make sure to mash the bananas well; any large chunks can lead to uneven baking. If you're using overly ripe bananas, they will lend a richer flavor, but take care not to overmix your batter after adding the dry ingredients to keep the squares tender.
For an added pop of flavor and texture, consider experimenting with the type and amount of chopped nuts. Walnuts or pecans work wonderfully, adding a delightful crunch. However, if you're planning to bake a nut-free version, you can substitute with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds, which will provide similar benefits without the allergens. Just remember to adjust baking time slightly, as the absence of nuts may lead to a lighter texture.
Storage and Meal Prep
These breakfast squares are perfect for meal prep! Once baked, allow them to cool completely in the pan before slicing. To store, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Individually wrap each square in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer, making them an ideal quick breakfast option for busy mornings.
When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw a square at room temperature or microwave it for about 15-30 seconds for an instant warm treat. Their texture may change slightly after freezing, but a quick pop in the microwave will revive their soft, inviting qualities. Keeping some on hand means you can always have a delicious breakfast or snack ready to go!
Ingredients
Ingredients for Cinnamon Banana Breakfast Squares
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Make sure to use ripe bananas for the best flavor!
Instructions
Instructions for Making Cinnamon Banana Breakfast Squares
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9 inch baking dish.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, honey (or maple syrup), melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
Add Dry Ingredients
Stir in rolled oats, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Add chopped nuts if desired.
Bake the Squares
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cool and Slice
Let the squares cool in the pan for a few minutes before slicing them into squares. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or some chocolate chips to the batter.
Substitutions and Variations
If you're looking to make these breakfast squares a bit healthier, consider replacing honey or maple syrup with unsweetened applesauce. This will lower the sugar content while still keeping the squares moist and flavorful. You can also use whole wheat flour instead of oats if you prefer a denser texture, but be cautious not to add too much, as this could make the squares dry.
For a fun twist, mix in some chocolate chips or dried fruit such as cranberries or apricots for varied flavor bursts. You can also add a scoop of protein powder to the wet ingredients for an added nutritional boost, making these squares even more beneficial for a hearty breakfast or post-workout snack.
Troubleshooting Tips
If you find your squares turned out too dry, it's likely they were overbaked. Keep an eye on them in the oven, and check for doneness a few minutes earlier than the suggested time. A toothpick should come out clean but not completely dry, indicating they are perfectly baked and moist inside. If you prefer softer squares, reducing the bake time by a couple of minutes can help achieve that.
In the event your squares are too moist and fall apart when sliced, the issue may stem from the ratio of dry to wet ingredients. Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately and avoid adding too many bananas or liquids. If this happens, you can crumble the squares into a bowl, mix in some yogurt, and turn it into a delicious breakfast parfait!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other sweeteners besides honey?
Yes, you can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar based on your preference.
→ How do I store the breakfast squares?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.
→ Can I freeze these squares?
Absolutely! Allow them to cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to three months.
→ What can I serve with these squares?
They pair wonderfully with yogurt, nut butter, or a drizzle of additional honey.
Cinnamon Banana Breakfast Squares
I love starting my morning with a burst of flavor, and these Cinnamon Banana Breakfast Squares do just that. With a rich blend of ripe bananas and aromatic cinnamon, they offer a delightful balance of sweetness and spice that gets my day off to a great start. These squares are not only quick to bake but also perfect for on-the-go breakfasts. It’s hard to resist their warm, comforting aroma wafting through the kitchen, making them an immediate family favorite!
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9 inch baking dish.
In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, honey (or maple syrup), melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
Stir in rolled oats, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Add chopped nuts if desired.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Let the squares cool in the pan for a few minutes before slicing them into squares. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or some chocolate chips to the batter.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 75mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 22g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 3g