Have your cake AND eat it too! This irresistibly sweet Hummingbird Cake Overnight Oats recipe brings all the flavors of the traditional southern dessert into a healthy, filling, and quick breakfast option. Packed with bananas, tropical pineapple, warm spices, and crunchy nuts, this creamy oats recipe is perfect for meal prep and an energizing start to your day!
As a huge fan of banana bread, I’m always on the lookout for new recipes that bring those comforting banana flavors to life. In fact, I’m the person who buys overly ripe bananas just to freeze them (they freeze perfectly, by the way!) for all kinds of banana-inspired treats.
While I grew up in New England, I didn’t discover the magic of hummingbird cake until recently.
Let me tell you—if you’re a banana bread lover like me, hummingbird cake takes it to the next level. It combines all the best parts of banana bread with tropical flavors, making it an even more indulgent and delicious version of what I already love. That’s exactly why I turned this southern classic into a healthy, fun breakfast with these Hummingbird Cake Overnight Oats.
What Is Hummingbird Cake?
Hummingbird cake is a southern classic that combines the flavors of banana bread and carrot cake. It’s akin to banana bread, in that the bananas help the cake stay tender and moist.
It’s a moist, tender cake filled with tropical ingredients like bananas, crushed pineapple, and spices. Often finished with a creamy frosting, this cake is packed with texture, flavor, and a subtle sweetness that makes it a beloved treat.
You may also want to check out my trifle recipe that includes a hummingbird cake!
Why You’ll Love Hummingbird Cake Overnight Oats
This recipe combines all the comforting flavors of a traditional Hummingbird Cake in a quick, healthy breakfast form. With the natural sweetness of banana and pineapple, the crunch of toasted nuts and coconut, and the warmth from cinnamon and allspice, these overnight oats are a great way to start your day feeling satisfied.
It’s like having cake for breakfast—without the sugar overload!
Perfect for meal prep, these oats are a filling, nutritious breakfast that can be made ahead of time and enjoyed all week long. Whether you’re a fan of banana bread, carrot cake, or just love a tropical breakfast, these oats will quickly become a favorite.
Oh, best of all… this recipe will use up those overly-ripe bananas that have been chilling on your counter!
What’s Inside Hummingbird Cake Overnight Oats?
Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need to create this flavorful overnight oats recipe:
- Rolled Oats – Opt for rolled oats, as they provide the perfect texture when soaking overnight. Avoid quick oats (too mushy) or steel-cut oats (too chewy).
- Greek Yogurt – A creamy base for your oats. I use plain non-fat Greek yogurt, but feel free to choose any variety, including dairy-free options.
- Milk – Almond milk is my go-to, but any milk (dairy or non-dairy) will work.
- Crushed Pineapple – Adds a sweet, tropical flavor. Canned pineapple works great, but fresh pineapple, finely chopped and mashed, is a delicious alternative.
- Banana – Use a ripe banana (yellow with a few brown spots). It adds natural sweetness and flavor, perfect for overnight oats.
- Walnuts or Pecans – Toasted and chopped for that signature crunch, enhancing the texture of the oats.
- Toasted Unsweetened Coconut – Lightly toasted coconut adds fantastic texture and flavor, giving you that authentic hummingbird cake feel.
- Vanilla Extract – A splash of vanilla enhances all the flavors and adds a smooth, aromatic touch.
- Spices – Ground cinnamon and allspice create the warm, cozy flavor that pairs perfectly with the banana and pineapple.
- Sweetener of Choice – Maple syrup, honey, or agave nectar can sweeten your oats to your taste.
- Optional Add-ins – Add dried pineapple, dried banana, or a scoop of protein powder for extra flavor and protein.
How to Make Hummingbird Cake Overnight Oats
- In a medium bowl, combine all the ingredients and stir until thoroughly mixed.
- Divide the mixture into two containers or jars.
- Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight, allowing the oats to absorb the flavors and soften.
- Enjoy straight from the jar or scoop into a bowl for an extra treat!
If You Liked Hummingbird Cake Overnight Oats, You’ll Love:
- Protein Zucchini Overnight Oats – Zucchini bread turned into a wholesome overnight oats recipe!
- Hummingbird Cake Trifle – A sweet, layered treat inspired by the classic cake!
If you loved this Hummingbird Cake Overnight Oats recipe, don’t forget to leave a 5-star 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 rating in the recipe card below! We’d love to hear from you—leave a comment to let us know how you enjoyed it!
Hummingbird Cake Overnight Oats
Ingredients
- 1 cup (80 g) rolled oats (not steel cut or quick cooking)
- 1/2 cup (4 ounces) milk of choice
- 1/2 cup (140 g) Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup (112 g) crushed pineapple
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- 2-3 tablespoons pecans or walnuts, toasted and chopped
- 3 tablespoons shredded coconut, toasted
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoon sweetener of choice, (maple syrup, honey, agave - add more as needed )
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon allspice
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients, stirring until fully incorporated.
- Transfer the mixture to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or preferably overnight. The longer the oats sit, the softer and more flavorful they become.
- When ready to serve, give the oats a quick stir. Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt, a drizzle of maple syrup, and a sprinkle of additional nuts or granola.
Notes
- Milk Options: Any milk works for this recipe, including cow’s milk, almond, soy, or oat milk.
- Nut Options: You can toast the pecans or walnuts before adding them, or use them raw, depending on your preference.
- Topping Ideas: Add extra toppings like toasted coconut, peanut butter, raisins, dried dates, pepitas, or more nuts for added texture and flavor.
- Protein Boost: For an extra protein kick, mix in half a scoop of vanilla or plain protein powder.
