Cinnamon Banana Breakfast Cups

Name: Cinnamon Banana Breakfast Cups
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 ripe bananas, mashed; 2 cups rolled oats; 1/2 cup milk (or non-dairy alternative); 1/2 cup Greek yogurt; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; Chopped nuts; Sliced bananas; Granola; Additional yogurt

Highlighted under: Fresh Cooking

I absolutely love starting my morning with these Cinnamon Banana Breakfast Cups. They’re not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. The combination of sweet bananas, warm cinnamon, and a touch of creamy yogurt creates a satisfying breakfast option that keeps me going until lunch. Each bite feels like a warm hug, and I can easily customize them with my favorite toppings. Whether I’m in a rush or enjoying a leisurely breakfast, these cups never fail to brighten my day.

Created by

Nerissa Caldwell

Last updated on 2026-01-15T16:34:36.774Z

When I first came across the idea of breakfast cups, I wasn't quite sold. However, after giving these Cinnamon Banana Breakfast Cups a try, I was amazed at how satisfying they are. The bananas caramelize beautifully, and the cinnamon adds that perfect warmth to each cup. I found that baking them in muffin tins creates delightful little puffs that are crispy on the outside and tender within.

One of my favorite tips for making these breakfast cups is to let the banana mixture sit for a few minutes before baking. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a more aromatic experience as they cook. Plus, I love sprinkling some nuts or granola on top just before serving for that satisfying crunch!

Why You'll Love These Breakfast Cups
The natural sweetness of bananas combined with warm cinnamon makes every bite delightful.
They’re versatile—easily adaptable with your favorite toppings like nuts or berries.
Perfect for meal prep; make them ahead of time for quick breakfasts throughout the week.

The Role of Oats in Breakfast Cups

Rolled oats are the backbone of these Cinnamon Banana Breakfast Cups, providing not only structure but also essential dietary fiber that supports digestion and satiety. When baked, they absorb moisture and create a chewy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy ingredients. To maintain their integrity, it’s best to use rolled oats rather than instant oats, which can become overly mushy and lose texture during baking.

Moreover, oats are incredibly versatile; if you need a gluten-free option, substitute them with certified gluten-free oats. This way, everyone can enjoy the goodness of these breakfast cups without compromising their dietary needs. Ensure that you don’t skip the baking powder as it helps the cups rise slightly, leading to a light and airy finish.

Customizing Your Toppings

These breakfast cups serve as a fantastic base for customization, making them a favorite in my kitchen. Topping them with sliced bananas adds an extra pop of freshness, while nuts provide a satisfying crunch and healthy fats. I recommend using walnuts or pecans for a rich flavor, but feel free to experiment with whatever you have on hand. If you prefer a bit of sweetness, a sprinkle of granola can elevate the cups further, adding both texture and flavor.

Additionally, drizzling some honey or maple syrup on top just before serving enhances the sweetness and complements the cinnamon beautifully. If you're looking for a more decadent option, a dollop of Greek yogurt on top adds creaminess while boosting protein. These additions not only enhance the flavor but also make your breakfast visually appealing.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the best features of these breakfast cups is their make-ahead capability. Prepare a batch on Sunday and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in the microwave for about 30 seconds to one minute. This quick warming restores their delightful texture and flavor, making them a convenient option during busy mornings.

If you're looking to extend their shelf life, consider freezing the cups. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. When properly stored, these breakfast cups can last up to three months in the freezer. To reheat from frozen, simply microwave for 1-2 minutes, checking for warmth throughout. This way, you can have a delicious, homemade breakfast at your fingertips anytime!

Ingredients

For the Cinnamon Banana Cups:

4 ripe bananas, mashed
2 cups rolled oats
1/2 cup milk (or non-dairy alternative)
1/2 cup Greek yogurt
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking powder

For Topping (optional):

Chopped nuts
Sliced bananas
Granola
Additional yogurt

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a muffin tin.

Mix Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt, cinnamon, vanilla extract, honey, salt, and baking powder. Stir until well mixed.

Fill Muffin Tin

Spoon the mixture evenly into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the cups are set and lightly golden on top.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cups to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Serve warm, topped with your favorite toppings.

Pro Tips

Experiment with different spices and toppings to customize your breakfast cups. Adding a pinch of nutmeg or some chopped apples can offer a delightful twist!

Flavor Variations

While the classic cinnamon and banana combination is a winner, don’t hesitate to mix in other flavors for a unique twist. For a tropical version, add pineapple chunks or a dash of coconut extract. You could also incorporate spices like nutmeg or ginger for an extra depth of flavor. For chocolate lovers, mixing in cocoa powder or adding chocolate chips can transform the cups into a morning treat that feels indulgent yet still healthy.

If you’re berry-inclined, consider folding in fresh or frozen berries into the mixture before baking. Blueberries and raspberries blend particularly well with the banana’s sweetness, adding a vibrant burst of flavor. Adjust the honey accordingly; if you're using sweeter toppings, you might want to reduce the amount in the base mixture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your breakfast cups are coming out too dry, this may be due to overbaking. Keep a close eye on them after the 15-minute mark; they should be set but still moist inside. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean but not dry. If you discover that they have sunk in the middle, it could be a sign that they need more baking powder for structure or that the bananas used were not quite ripe enough, which can affect rising.

Conversely, if the cups are too soggy, ensure that you are using the correct measurements, particularly for the bananas and yogurt. Ripe bananas are crucial, as they provide natural sweetness and moisture. If you find that your bananas are particularly juicy, you might reduce the yogurt slightly to compensate. Balancing moisture levels is key to achieving the perfect texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture the night before and bake them in the morning or bake them in advance and reheat when needed.

→ Can I freeze the breakfast cups?

Yes, these cups freeze well. Just place them in an airtight container after cooling, and they can be stored for up to a month.

→ What can I substitute for oats?

You could use almond flour or a gluten-free blend if you're looking for a gluten-free option.

→ How do I add more protein?

You can mix in some protein powder or add extra Greek yogurt as a topping to increase the protein content.