Peanut Butter Banana Steel Cut Oats Recipe

If you’re searching for a breakfast that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, look no further than Peanut Butter Banana Steel Cut Oats. This dish combines the hearty, nutty chew of steel cut oats with the creamy richness of peanut butter and the natural sweetness of perfectly ripe bananas. It’s a comforting, satisfying meal that fuels your morning with wholesome ingredients, wrapped in flavors that instantly bring a smile to your face. Whether you’re a busy bee or a leisurely morning lover, this recipe is super easy to prepare yet luxuriously tasty, making Peanut Butter Banana Steel Cut Oats a forever favorite in my kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple but essential, working together to create a delicious balance of creaminess, sweetness, and texture. Each component plays its part: oats give hearty chew, banana brings natural sweetness and softness, peanut butter adds rich flavor and protein, while butter and brown sugar create a cozy warmth in every bite.

• 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds a velvety richness and helps toast the oats to bring out their nutty flavor.
• 1 1/2 cups steel cut oats: The star grain with a chewy texture that holds up beautifully in this recipe.
• 3 cups water: Hydrates the oats while keeping the dish light and smooth.
• 2 cups milk: Adds creaminess and boosts the comforting factor of the oats.
• 1 medium banana, mashed: Sweetens naturally and blends into the oats for smooth, soft pockets of flavor.
• 1/4 cup brown sugar: Brings warmth and subtle caramel notes which highlight the peanut butter beautifully.
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter: Provides hearty richness and a luscious, nutty depth to every spoonful.
• Extra brown sugar, peanut butter, banana slices, and a splash of milk for serving: Perfect for personalizing your bowl and adding texture and freshness.

How to Make Peanut Butter Banana Steel Cut Oats

Step 1: Toast the Oats

Start by heating your Instant Pot on the sauté setting and melt the unsalted butter. Once bubbly, toss in the steel cut oats and stir continuously for a couple of minutes. This toasting step develops a wonderful nutty aroma and gives the oats a delightful texture that sets this dish apart from regular oatmeal.

Step 2: Mash the Banana

Take your ripe banana and use a fork to mash it until smooth. This makes it easy to blend seamlessly into the oats and infuses every bite with luscious sweetness without overpowering the other flavors.

Step 3: Combine the Liquid Ingredients and Banana

Add the water, milk, and mashed banana right into the pot with the toasted oats. Give everything a good stir to combine and set the stage for creamy, flavorful oats infused with banana goodness from the start.

Step 4: Pressure Cook the Oats

Seal the Instant Pot lid and set it to cook on high pressure for four minutes. Remember to close the vent carefully. The pot will need several minutes to build pressure, but once it starts cooking, this quick burst creates perfectly tender steel cut oats that soak in all the flavors beautifully.

Step 5: Natural Pressure Release

Once the cooking time is up, allow your Instant Pot to release pressure naturally for about ten minutes. This gentle release helps the oats settle into their creamy, thick consistency without drying out, preserving that comforting texture we all love.

Step 6: Stir in Brown Sugar and Peanut Butter

Open the lid and immediately stir in the brown sugar and creamy peanut butter. Swirl them thoroughly through the oats until luxuriously smooth and sweet, making the Peanut Butter Banana Steel Cut Oats irresistibly rich and decadent.

Step 7: Serve Your Creation

Ladle the warm oats into your favorite bowls. Add a splash of milk, extra banana slices, a spoonful of peanut butter, and a sprinkle of brown sugar for charming garnish and that extra bit of flavor kick that makes every bite special.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Banana Steel Cut Oats

Garnishes

Sometimes it’s those little touches that elevate a dish. For the Peanut Butter Banana Steel Cut Oats, fresh banana slices add a burst of fruity freshness while extra peanut butter creates creamy pockets of indulgence. A sprinkle of brown sugar on top provides a delicate crunch and subtle sweetness to balance the creamy oats perfectly.

Side Dishes

This breakfast bowl is a complete meal on its own, but you can’t go wrong pairing it with a side of fresh berries or a handful of toasted nuts for added texture and nutrients. For those who love savory touches, a crispy turkey bacon strip complements the sweetness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Peanut Butter Banana Steel Cut Oats layered in clear glass jars with alternating swirl layers of peanut butter and banana slices. This not only makes a stunning breakfast presentation but also lets everyone customize their bites with delightful combinations of flavors and textures.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (which can happen when making this much yum), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to four days, allowing you to enjoy a nourishing breakfast with minimal effort on busy mornings.

Freezing

Peanut Butter Banana Steel Cut Oats freeze wonderfully. Portion the cooled oats into freezer-safe containers or bags, and they’ll last for up to three months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to enjoy a quick, hearty meal anytime you want.

Reheating

When reheating, add a splash of milk or water to loosen the oats as they warm up on the stovetop or in the microwave. Stir well to restore that creamy texture and flavor, making it taste freshly made each time.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe without an Instant Pot?

Absolutely! You can cook steel cut oats on the stovetop. Toast the oats in butter as directed, then add milk, water, and mashed banana. Simmer gently, stirring frequently, until the oats are tender, about 20-30 minutes.

Is it possible to use natural peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, natural peanut butter works well but may separate more easily. Stir it well before adding and be prepared for a slightly grainier texture that tastes just as delicious and wholesome.

Can I substitute the banana for another fruit?

While bananas bring natural sweetness and creaminess, you can experiment with mashed cooked apples or pumpkin puree. Keep in mind the texture and sweetness will vary, so adjust the brown sugar as needed.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

Just swap the unsalted butter for a plant-based alternative and use your favorite non-dairy milk instead of regular milk. The dish will still be wonderfully creamy and flavorful!

Why use steel cut oats instead of rolled oats?

Steel cut oats have a heartier texture and lower glycemic index, meaning they digest slower and keep you full longer. They also hold up better during pressure cooking, resulting in a satisfying chew that’s perfect for this recipe.

Final Thoughts

Peanut Butter Banana Steel Cut Oats is more than just a breakfast—it’s a comforting start to any day, bringing together wholesome ingredients that create a bowl bursting with flavor and warmth. Give this recipe a try and watch it quickly become one of your go-to mornings meals. Trust me; your taste buds and your tummy will thank you every single time!

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