A delicious and healthy banana bread with oats! Perfect for breakfast, as a snack, or a pre-workout meal.

a loaf of bread with raisin and dried prunes

Why You’ll Love This Banana Oatmeal Bread

There’s something undeniably comforting about a freshly baked loaf of banana bread—its sweet aroma filling the kitchen, the tender crumb, and that perfect hint of natural sweetness. This version takes a wholesome twist, studded with juicy raisins and rich dried prunes that add depth, moisture, and a touch of nostalgia. It’s the kind of treat that feels like a warm hug, perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a cozy dessert with a cup of tea. Whether you're using up overripe bananas or simply craving something hearty and homemade, this banana bread delivers big flavor in every slice.

Banana Oatmeal Bread
Moist, Healthy & Easy to Make

Ingredients

4 ripe bananas (600 g)
4 eggs
140 g oat flour
140 g oats
25 g honey or maple syrup
140 ml milk (or plant-based milk)
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
1 tsp cinnamon
1 pinch of salt
80 g raisins
80 g dried prunes

How to Make Banana Oatmeal Bread (Step-by-Step)

Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F) and grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
Mash three of the four bananas in a bowl and mix with eggs, honey, and vanilla extract.
Add the dry ingredients (oat flour, oats, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt) and mix well.
Pour in the milk and stir until you have a smooth batter.
Fold in the raisins and dried prunes and mix gently.
Pour the batter into the loaf pan and smooth the top.
Add the fourth banana in slices on top and in the batter.
Bake for 40-45 minutes, I prefer it to be a little moist inside

Let it cool, slice, and enjoy! 😋

Tips for the Best Texture and Rise

Want a banana oatmeal bread that’s soft, moist, and perfectly risen every time? These tips will help you get bakery-level results right at home:

Use overripe bananas. The spottier, the better. They’re sweeter, mash easily, and add moisture to the bread.
Don’t overmix. Once the dry and wet ingredients are combined, stop mixing. Overworking the batter can lead to dense, tough bread.
Use rolled oats or oat flour wisely. Rolled oats add texture, while oat flour makes the loaf more tender. If using whole oats, a quick pulse in the blender can help soften the texture.
Don’t skip the leavening. Baking powder and baking soda are key for lift—especially important when baking with heavier ingredients like oats.
Let it rest before baking. Giving the batter 5–10 minutes before it goes into the oven allows the oats to hydrate, creating a better crumb.

Simple Variations to Try

Once you’ve nailed the base recipe, it’s easy to switch things up! This banana oatmeal bread is super versatile, so feel free to get creative with your favorite flavors or ingredients. Here are a few simple variations to try:

Nutty Banana Bread: Stir in a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture and a boost of healthy fats.
Chocolate Chip Twist: Add dark chocolate chips or chunks for a slightly indulgent spin—perfect for kids and sweet tooth cravings.
Blueberry Banana Oat Bread: Fold in fresh or frozen blueberries for a juicy pop of fruit in every bite.
Spiced-Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon, a pinch of nutmeg, or even pumpkin spice to bring warmth and cozy vibes.
Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based milk and oil instead of butter or yogurt—still moist and delicious!
Gluten-Free Swap: Use certified gluten-free oats or oat flour to make this recipe 100% gluten-free (just check your baking powder too!).

These simple twists let you tailor your loaf to the season, your cravings, or whatever you already have in the pantry.

How to Store & Freeze Banana Oatmeal Bread

Banana oatmeal bread keeps surprisingly well, making it perfect for meal prep, breakfast on the go, or a healthy snack throughout the week. Here’s how to store and freeze it for maximum freshness:

Storing at Room Temperature

Let the loaf cool completely before storing to avoid trapped moisture. Wrap it tightly in foil or place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh on the counter for up to 3 days.

Refrigerating for Longer Freshness

To extend its shelf life, keep your banana oat bread in the fridge. Wrap it in plastic wrap or store it in a sealed container—it will stay moist and delicious for up to 5–6 days.

Freezing for Later

Banana oatmeal bread freezes beautifully! Here’s how:

Slice the bread once it’s cooled, so you can grab individual portions as needed.
Wrap each slice in parchment or plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container.
Freeze for up to 3 months.