If you’re craving a warm, nourishing, and altogether dreamy breakfast, you absolutely have to try Peanut Butter Oatmeal. It’s my go-to bowl on cozy mornings—a creamy, nutty blend topped with fresh banana that’s as comforting as it is satisfying. Whether you’re racing out the door or settling in for a slow start, this recipe turns ordinary oats into pure sunshine!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy, Hearty Texture: Every bite of Peanut Butter Oatmeal is rich and velvety, thanks to melting banana and nutty peanut butter stirred right in.
- Quick and Fuss-Free: Ready in just 15 minutes, this breakfast fits even the busiest schedule without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.
- Naturally Sweetened: Bananas bring a gentle, natural sweetness so you can skip extra sugar—or add just a drizzle of maple syrup if you want more indulgence.
- Packed with Goodness: Chia seeds, oats, and peanut butter bring fiber, plant-based protein, and healthy fats to keep you full for hours.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a handful of pantry staples to make Peanut Butter Oatmeal, but each one adds its own magic: creaminess from oats and peanut butter, sweetness from banana, and an irresistible warmth from cinnamon. Here’s what makes each ingredient special in this bowl!
- Old fashioned rolled oats: These cook up creamy but still chewy—perfect for hearty, spoonable oatmeal that isn’t mushy.
- Banana, sliced: Not only does banana melt in for sweetness, but it makes every bite luxuriously smooth—plus extra slices on top are a must!
- Chia seeds: These tiny seeds thicken your oats and sneak in extra fiber and healthy fats for long-lasting energy.
- Cinnamon: A dash of cinnamon lends cozy warmth and a fragrant aroma that makes this bowl feel like a morning treat.
- Sea salt: Just a pinch brings out all the rich, nutty, and sweet notes in your Peanut Butter Oatmeal.
- Water, non-dairy milk, or a blend: Liquid is what softens the oats—milk makes it extra creamy, but water keeps things lighter, so you can mix to your personal taste.
- Peanut butter: The star ingredient! It brings that irresistible nuttiness and protein that makes oatmeal feel special.
Variations
The joy of Peanut Butter Oatmeal is how wildly customizable it is! You can tweak the flavor, the toppings, or even switch up ingredients to fit your mood, what’s in your pantry, or dietary needs—so don’t be afraid to make it yours.
- Make it peanut-free: Swap peanut butter for almond, cashew, sunflower seed butter, or even tahini for a unique twist.
- Overnight oats version: Mix everything up the night before, reduce the milk or water to 2 cups, and let it sit in the fridge for overnight oats that are ready to grab and go!
- Chocolate lovers: Stir in a spoonful of cocoa powder or a sprinkle of chocolate chips just before serving for some chocolatey decadence.
- Different fruits or nuts: Top with berries, chopped apples, toasted coconut, or a handful of granola for added crunch and flavor variety.
How to Make Peanut Butter Oatmeal
Step 1: Combine Your Base Ingredients
Grab a medium saucepan and toss in your oats, banana slices, chia seeds, cinnamon, and a pinch of sea salt. Pour in your water or non-dairy milk—this is where you get to play mixologist and pick the ratio that matches your mood and desired creaminess. Give everything a good stir to meld those flavors and textures together right from the start.
Step 2: Cook Low and Slow
Set your pan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a gentle bubble. It takes around 8–10 minutes, and you’ll want to stir often—this helps the banana melt into the oats and ensures the chia seeds don’t clump. You’ll know your Peanut Butter Oatmeal is ready when the oats are fluffy, thick, and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
Step 3: Finish and Serve
Spoon the oats into bowls while hot, then swirl in a generous tablespoon of peanut butter per serving. Don’t skip extra banana slices, chia seeds, or a splash of non-dairy milk on top—these finishing touches make every bowl look and taste delicious. If you want extra sweetness, a drizzle of maple syrup never hurts!
Pro Tips for Making Peanut Butter Oatmeal
- Creamiest Results: For ultra-creamy Peanut Butter Oatmeal, use a blend of non-dairy milk and water, and stir your oats frequently as they cook.
- Banana Magic: The thinner you slice your banana, the more it will melt into the oats, delivering sweetness and almost a pudding-like texture.
- Nut Butter Swirl: Add peanut butter while the oats are piping hot so it melts beautifully—plus, a little swirl on top always looks inviting!
- Batch for Later: Double the recipe and save leftovers; Peanut Butter Oatmeal reheats beautifully for meal prep or busy mornings.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Oatmeal
Garnishes
Brighten up your bowl with extra banana slices, a sprinkle of chia seeds, or even a handful of berries. I love to finish with a glossy drizzle of peanut butter and sometimes a dash of cinnamon or a few cacao nibs for crunch—it’s an instant breakfast upgrade!
Side Dishes
A mug of coffee, creamy chai, or a green smoothie makes a perfect pairing for Peanut Butter Oatmeal. If you’re hosting brunch, serve with a plate of fresh fruit or toasted sourdough for added variety and color.
Creative Ways to Present
Layer Peanut Butter Oatmeal in small jars for a portable parfait—add layers of sliced banana, berries, or granola. For a weekend treat, serve it family-style in a big bowl and let everyone top their own. A sprinkle of chocolate chips always adds a wow-factor for kids (or kid-at-heart adults!).
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Peanut Butter Oatmeal keeps well in the fridge for up to three days. Store cooled portions in airtight containers—just add a splash of milk or water before reheating to loosen it back up and enjoy just-like-fresh taste.
Freezing
If meal prep is your thing, freeze individual portions in airtight containers. To avoid clumping, let the oatmeal cool completely before freezing, and use within three months for the best flavor and texture.
Reheating
Reheat your Peanut Butter Oatmeal on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or milk as needed. Just a quick 30 to 60 seconds in the microwave or a gentle heat on the stove will bring it back to creamy perfection—stir well and top as desired!
FAQs
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Can I use quick oats or steel-cut oats for Peanut Butter Oatmeal?
Old fashioned rolled oats give the best creaminess and thickness, but you can use quick oats for a softer, faster-cooking bowl. Steel-cut oats require more liquid and a longer cooking time (up to 30 minutes), plus more stirring, but the nutty flavor is wonderful if you don’t mind the extra wait!
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What’s the healthiest way to sweeten Peanut Butter Oatmeal?
The banana naturally sweetens the oatmeal, but if you want more, try a teaspoon of pure maple syrup or a sprinkle of coconut sugar. If you prefer less sugar overall, simply add more fresh fruit on top and let the flavors shine.
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How can I add extra protein to this breakfast?
In addition to the protein from peanut butter and chia seeds, you can stir in a scoop of your favorite plant-based or whey protein powder after cooking. Greek yogurt or an extra spoonful of nut butter on top are delicious, protein-rich options too.
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Can I make Peanut Butter Oatmeal ahead for busy mornings?
Absolutely! Make a double batch and portion into single-serve containers. Reheat in the morning with a splash of milk or water, and add fresh toppings—this recipe is perfect for meal prepping healthy, cozy breakfasts in advance.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something special about a bowl of homemade Peanut Butter Oatmeal—the kind of breakfast that feels like a little act of self-care on any kind of morning. I hope you give this recipe a try and make it your own with your favorite toppers. Dig in, savor every spoonful, and start your day with real, cozy comfort!
Print
Peanut Butter Oatmeal Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Peanut Butter Oatmeal recipe is a delicious and nutritious way to start your day. Creamy oats combined with the sweetness of banana and the richness of peanut butter make for a hearty breakfast that will keep you satisfied until lunchtime.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup old fashioned rolled oats
- 1 banana, sliced
- 1 Tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- pinch sea salt
Liquid and Toppings:
- 3 cups water, non-dairy milk, or a blend of both
- 2 Tablespoons peanut butter
Instructions
- Add Ingredients to Pot: Add oats, banana slices, chia seeds, cinnamon, and sea salt to a pot. Add water and/or milk and stir to combine.
- Cook Oatmeal: Heat over medium-high heat for 8-10 minutes or until all the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to incorporate banana slices and prevent clumping of chia seeds.
- Serve: Portion oats into two bowls and top with peanut butter, banana slices, and chia seeds. Optionally, add a splash of milk or maple syrup before serving.
Notes
- For a peanut-free option, substitute peanut butter with almond butter, cashew butter, sunflower seed butter, or tahini.
- To meal prep, make two servings and store one for the next day. Adjust ingredient quantities if making single servings. Reheat leftovers on stovetop or in the microwave.
- To prepare overnight oats, reduce non-dairy milk to 2 cups, mix all ingredients, refrigerate overnight, and enjoy in the morning.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: Approx. 350 kcal
- Sugar: Approx. 12g
- Sodium: Approx. 150mg
- Fat: Approx. 10g
- Saturated Fat: Approx. 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: Approx. 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: Approx. 55g
- Fiber: Approx. 10g
- Protein: Approx. 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
