Creamy Banana Oat Layers

This American snack recipe combines authentic flavors with modern cooking techniques. Ready in 15 minutes, serves 4 people. Assemble in individual glass jars or clear dessert bowls to display the beautiful layers. Serve immediately for a crunchy texture or chill for an hour …

Cuisine: American Type: Snack Time: 15 min Servings: 4 Calories: 291 per serving
Plan Shop Cook Chat Gear Video

Nutrition Information

Each serving contains approximately 291 calories and 16.0g of protein. Macronutrients include 41.0g carbohydrates and 7.0g fats per serving.

Per Serving

Calories
291
Protein
16.0g
Carbohydrates
41.0g
Fats
7.0g

Total

Calories
1164
Protein
64.0g
Carbohydrates
164.0g
Fats
28.0g

Ingredients

This recipe requires 7 ingredients. All ingredients are commonly available at grocery stores.

  • 2.0 whole Ripe Bananas
    peeled and sliced into rounds
  • 2.0 cup Plain Greek Yogurt
    non-fat or low-fat, unsweetened
  • 1.0 cup Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats
    whole grain
  • 0.25 cup Walnuts
    raw, unsalted, chopped into bite-size pieces
  • 2.0 tbsp Pure Maple Syrup
    100% pure
  • 0.5 tsp Vanilla Extract
    pure
  • 0.25 tsp Ground Cinnamon
    or to taste

Instructions

Follow these 4 steps to prepare this dish. Each step includes detailed instructions for best results.

1. Mise en Place and Preparation

  1. Gather equipment: 1 large skillet, spatula, cutting board, chef's knife, measuring cups, and 4 serving jars or glass bowls.
  2. Measure 1 cup (90g) rolled oats, 2 cups (450g) Greek yogurt, 0.25 cup (30g) walnuts, 2 tbsp (30ml) maple syrup, and 0.5 tsp (2.5ml) vanilla extract.
  3. Coarsely chop the raw walnuts into bite-sized pieces on the cutting board.
  4. Peel the 2 ripe bananas and slice them into thin, even rounds.

2. Toast the Oat Crunch

  1. Place the large skillet over medium heat and allow it to warm up.
  2. Add the rolled oats and chopped walnuts to the dry skillet.
  3. Toast the mixture, stirring frequently to ensure even browning and prevent burning, until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the maple syrup and sprinkle the 0.25 tsp (1g) cinnamon over the oats.
  5. Stir continuously to coat the oats and nuts evenly, then immediately remove from heat to cool.

3. Prepare the Yogurt Base

  1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt and vanilla extract.
  2. Stir the mixture vigorously until the vanilla is fully incorporated and the texture is creamy.

4. Assemble the Layers

  1. Arrange the 4 serving jars or bowls in a line on the counter.
  2. Spoon a base layer of the vanilla yogurt mixture into each jar.
  3. Place a layer of banana slices on top of the yogurt.
  4. Sprinkle a generous layer of the cooled oat and walnut crunch over the bananas.
  5. Repeat the layers if space allows, or finish with a final topping of the oat crunch.

Plating

  1. Select 4 clear glass tumblers, mason jars, or dessert bowls to clearly display the distinct layers of the dish.
  2. Spoon a smooth layer of the Greek yogurt mixture into the bottom of each glass to create a stable white foundation.
  3. Arrange sliced banana rounds on top of the yogurt, carefully pressing a few slices against the inside walls of the glass so they are clearly visible from the outside.
  4. Sprinkle a generous layer of the golden, toasted oat and walnut mixture over the fruit to provide a contrasting texture and color.
  5. Repeat the layering process—yogurt, banana, then oats—until the vessel is filled to just below the rim.
  6. Finish with a small central dollop of yogurt and a final scatter of the crunchy oat topping for height.
  7. Dust lightly with ground cinnamon and serve immediately to maintain the crunch of the toasted layers.

Family Beverage

Chilled almond milk with a dash of cinnamon or a homemade strawberry smoothie

Alcohol Beverage

Late Harvest Riesling or a small glass of chilled Tawny Port

Serving Suggestions

Assemble in individual glass jars or clear dessert bowls to display the beautiful layers. Serve immediately for a crunchy texture or chill for an hour to soften the oats.

Notes

Using fully ripe bananas enhances the natural sweetness, reducing the need for added sweeteners. Toasting the nuts and oats in a dry pan for a few minutes before assembling adds a rich, nutty depth to the dish. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

Storage

Keep assembled jars covered with airtight lids or plastic wrap in the coldest part of the refrigerator. Consume within 24 hours for the best texture, as the oats will soften and the bananas may naturally darken over time.

Freezing

Freezing the fully assembled dish is not recommended as the dairy may separate and the fruit will lose its texture. However, the toasted oat and walnut crumble can be stored in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month; simply thaw at room temperature before use.

Dietary Information

Allergen information: This recipe contains or may contain the following allergens: milk, dairy, treenuts, gluten. Always check ingredient labels if you have severe allergies.

Dietary considerations: Consult the nutrition information above for detailed macronutrient breakdown. This recipe can be modified to accommodate various dietary preferences.

Photo of your cooked dish