- Mash the Banana: In a mixing bowl, use a fork to mash the ripe banana until smooth.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the egg, almond milk, vanilla extract, and honey (if using) to the mashed banana. Whisk until well combined.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Stir in the oats, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until everything is evenly mixed.
- Fold in the Blueberries: Gently fold in the blueberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the oat mixture.
Step 2: Prepare for Air Frying
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C) for 3-5 minutes.
- Grease Ramekins: Lightly grease the ramekins or baking dish with a little bit of oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Pour the Oat Mixture: Evenly divide the oat mixture into the prepared ramekins or pour it all into a small baking dish.
Step 3: Air Fry the Baked Oats
- Cook: Place the ramekins or baking dish in the preheated air fryer basket. Cook for 15-18 minutes, or until the oats are set and lightly golden on top. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
- Cool Slightly: Allow the baked oats to cool in the ramekins for a few minutes before serving. This will help them set and make them easier to remove if desired.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve: Enjoy the baked oats warm, either straight from the ramekin or inverted onto a plate.
- Toppings: For an extra treat, top your baked oats with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup, a dollop of Greek yogurt, and a few extra blueberries.
Tips for Perfect Blueberry Baked Oats
- Ripe Bananas: The riper the banana, the sweeter your baked oats will be. If your banana isn’t very ripe, you might want to add a bit more honey or maple syrup.
- Customize: Feel free to swap out blueberries for other fruits like raspberries, strawberries, or chopped apples.
- Make It Vegan: To make this recipe vegan, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and use a plant-based milk.
Variations
- Chocolate Chip Baked Oats: Swap out the blueberries for dark chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
- Nutty Baked Oats: Stir in a handful of chopped nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans for added crunch.
- Coconut Baked Oats: Add a tablespoon of shredded coconut to the oat mixture for a tropical flavor.
Storing and Reheating
- Store: Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: To reheat, simply pop them back in the air fryer at 320°F (160°C) for 5 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave them for 1-2 minutes.
Conclusion
These Air Fryer Blueberry Baked Oats are not just a healthy breakfast option—they’re also incredibly satisfying and flavorful. With the convenience of an air fryer, you can whip up this nutritious dish in no time, making it perfect for busy mornings or when you want a wholesome meal with minimal effort. Give this recipe a try and start your day on a delicious, healthy note!