Peanut butter banana oatmeal
Peanut butter banana oatmeal is a warm, creamy bowl of oats topped with nut butter, sliced banana and honey. It is filling, cozy and ready in 10 minutes. The protein from the peanut butter helps keep you full until lunch. It is also easy to change up with whatever toppings you have.
- 10 minTotal time
- 1Serving
- 560kcal / serving
- 19 gProtein
The science: why this works
Why oats turn thick and creamy
Oats are full of starch. When they heat in liquid, the starch granules swell and release into the milk, which thickens the pot. Stirring helps release more starch and gives a creamier bowl.
Learn: How starch thickens sauce →Why a gentle simmer works best
A hard boil can scorch the milk on the bottom and make the oats stick. A gentle simmer cooks them evenly in about 5 minutes. Stirring often keeps the milk from catching on the pot.
Learn: Heating milk without scorching →Why a pinch of salt is in the pot
Salt makes oatmeal taste less flat. It also helps the sweetness of the banana and honey stand out. Only a pinch is needed, and the bowl will not taste salty.
Learn: Why desserts need a pinch of salt →Peanut butter banana oatmeal
10 minutes · 1 serving · American · Breakfast
Ingredients
Makes 1 serving
Method
Tips for the best result
- Stir often and keep the heat at a gentle simmer so the milk does not scorch.
- Use a slightly riper banana for extra sweetness, and slice it just before serving.
- Add a splash more milk at the end if the oatmeal gets too thick.
Swaps
- Swap the milk for water for a lighter bowl, or for oat milk to make it dairy-free.
- Swap peanut butter for almond or sunflower seed butter if you have an allergy.
- Swap the honey for maple syrup to keep the bowl vegan.
Storing and reheating
Cooked oatmeal keeps in a covered container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or water, stirring until it is steaming hot, and add the fresh toppings after.
Peanut butter banana oatmeal: questions
How do you make oatmeal creamy?
Cook it in milk and stir often so the starch from the oats thickens the liquid. A gentle simmer works better than a hard boil. A spoonful of nut butter at the end adds extra richness.
Can I make peanut butter banana oatmeal with water?
Yes, you can cook the oats in water instead of milk. The oatmeal will be a little less creamy but still tasty, especially with the peanut butter on top. Add a splash of milk at the end if you like.
How long does oatmeal take to cook?
Rolled oats take about 5 minutes at a gentle simmer. They are done when the oatmeal is thick and the oats are soft. Quick oats may be ready in 2 to 3 minutes.
Can I prep peanut butter banana oatmeal ahead?
Yes, cook the oats and store them in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat with a little milk and add the banana and peanut butter fresh. That keeps the banana from turning brown.
