When you use a really ripe (or over ripe) banana in this recipe, it tastes so much like banana bread—but is much faster! See the options for which toppings make this even more delish.
Place a medium pot over medium heat. Add the water, cover, and bring to a boil.
Stir in the oats, cinnamon, and vanilla. Reduce the heat to medium and simmer (uncovered) for 8 minutes.
Stir in the banana and simmer for 2 additional minutes.
Turn off the heat, cover, and let sit for 2 minutes.
Serve with milk, granola (without nuts for kids under age 4), finely chopped walnuts or pecans, sliced bananas, and/or honey.
Notes
Store any leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in 30 second increments, stirring in between, until warm.
You can add 1/2 cup nuts to the pot while cooking to soften them up nicely.
To serve this to a baby, let it cool and offer it as is. Or stir in a little milk. You can use a baby spoon or let the kids get messy and do it themselves.
If the kids aren't superfans of oatmeal, I find that a few sprinkles on top can go a long way!
I haven't had any issues with this sticking to the pot as it's cooking, but if that was to happen, either add a little water (or milk) to the pot or turn down the heat.