Soft Oatmeal Breakfast Muffins

Name: Soft Oatmeal Breakfast Muffins
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 muffins
Ingredients: 1 cup rolled oats; 1 cup milk (or almond milk); 1 medium ripe banana, mashed; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup vegetable oil or melted coconut oil; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt; Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts or dried fruits

Highlighted under: Clean & Tasty

I absolutely love starting my day with these soft oatmeal breakfast muffins. They are not only incredibly moist, but they also pack in a delicious depth of flavor that makes every bite fulfilling. I enjoy incorporating wholesome ingredients like oats and bananas that provide great nutrition while keeping the muffins fluffy. Plus, with just the right sweetness, these muffins are perfect for breakfast on the go or a leisurely brunch with friends. Trust me, once you try these, they will become a staple in your morning routine!

Created by

Callista Green

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:52:15.842Z

I remember the first time I tried making oatmeal muffins; I was looking for a healthy breakfast option that wouldn't compromise on taste. By experimenting with different ingredients, I found that ripe bananas blended with oats create the perfect moist texture and natural sweetness. This simple trick not only enhances flavor but also adds a nutritional kick!

My family loves these muffins, and I often prepare a batch to freeze for busy mornings. When reheated, they stay soft and inviting. Sprinkle a handful of nuts or dried fruits into the batter for extra richness, or simply enjoy them plain!

Why You Will Love These Muffins
Soft, tender texture that’s delightful in every bite
Nutritious ingredients that fuel your day
Perfect for meal prep and easy to grab on busy mornings

The Role of Oats and Bananas

Oats are not just a base ingredient in these muffins; they are what give them their signature soft texture and hearty flavor. By soaking the rolled oats in milk for 10 minutes, you allow them to absorb moisture, contributing to a moist muffin that won’t dry out during baking. The oats also add nutritional benefits, providing fiber that supports digestion and keeps you feeling fuller for longer.

The ripe banana serves multiple purposes in this recipe. It not only sweetens the muffins naturally but also adds moisture, which is essential for achieving that tender crumb. Be sure to use a banana that’s speckled with brown spots to maximize its sweetness and flavor. If you find yourself without a banana, applesauce can be a fantastic substitute to maintain that moist texture.

Baking Techniques for Muffin Perfection

When mixing the dry and wet ingredients, it’s crucial to combine them gently to avoid overmixing the batter. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins instead of the fluffy texture we desire. Mix until just combined—it's okay if there are a few lumps. This will keep the muffins light and airy, allowing them to rise beautifully in the oven.

Preheating your oven to the right temperature is key. A consistent baking temperature of 350°F (175°C) ensures that the muffins cook evenly. Make sure your oven is fully preheated before placing the muffin tin inside. If the muffins aren’t browning, rotate the tin halfway through baking to ensure even heat distribution.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to start making your delicious muffins:

For the Muffins

1 cup rolled oats
1 cup milk (or almond milk)
1 medium ripe banana, mashed
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup vegetable oil or melted coconut oil
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts or dried fruits

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create scrumptious oatmeal muffins:

Prepare the Oats

In a bowl, combine the rolled oats with the milk and let them soak for about 10 minutes until the oats absorb some liquid.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

To the soaked oats, add the mashed banana, honey (or maple syrup), oil, and vanilla extract. Mix well until fully combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Combine Everything

Pour the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Fold in any optional nuts or dried fruits.

Bake the Muffins

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a muffin tin or line it with muffin liners. Spoon the batter evenly into the muffin cups and bake for 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Once baked, let the muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Enjoy them warm!

These muffins can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week or frozen for longer storage!

Pro Tips

Experiment with flavors by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth. You can also replace some of the flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.

Storing and Freezing

These oatmeal muffins can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, consider freezing them. Simply allow the muffins to cool completely, then wrap each one in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer, making them a perfect option for meal prep.

To enjoy a muffin from the freezer, simply remove it and let it thaw at room temperature for about an hour, or pop it in the microwave for 15-20 seconds for a quick heat-up. This allows you to have a warm, comforting breakfast ready in no time!

Flavor Variations and Add-ins

While the base recipe is delicious on its own, feel free to get creative with add-ins. Consider incorporating spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the flavor profile. If you prefer a bit of crunch, adding 1/2 cup of chopped nuts—like walnuts or pecans—can provide a delightful texture contrast.

Dried fruits such as raisins or cranberries not only add sweetness but also give the muffins a fruity note. Just be mindful of the total added sugar from these ingredients. If you're going for dietary swaps, consider using a sugar substitute like stevia to maintain a lower sugar content while still enjoying these tasty treats.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free flour?

Yes, you can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend to make these muffins gluten-free.

→ How can I make these muffins dairy-free?

Simply use a non-dairy milk, like almond or oat milk, and replace any other dairy ingredients accordingly.

→ Can I freeze these muffins?

Absolutely! They freeze well. Just make sure they are completely cool before placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag.

→ What can I substitute for honey?

You can use maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan-friendly option.