High-Calorie Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal

Start to Finish: 10 minutes

Servings: 2

Getting enough calories can be challenging for some with Rett syndrome. Standard care guidelines point to calorie-dense foods like oils and nut butters as one practical way to help support growth.

This warm bowl of oatmeal has a soft texture and leans on peanut butter, whole milk, and banana to pack in extra calories and protein.

Feeding challenges are common in Rett syndrome, which is one reason care teams pay close attention to nutrition. If swallowing is a concern, ask your care team about the safest food and liquid textures.

Ingredients

• 1 cup rolled oats (gluten-free, if sensitive)
• 1½ cups whole milk
• 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
• 1 ripe banana, mashed
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed
• 1 tablespoon wheat germ (optional, for extra calories)
• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Combine the oats, whole milk, and a pinch of salt in a small saucepan over medium heat.
2. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 to 7 minutes, until the oats are soft and creamy.
3. Remove from heat. Stir in the peanut butter until fully melted and smooth.
4. Fold in the mashed banana, honey or maple syrup, ground flaxseed, wheat germ, and cinnamon.
5. Divide between two bowls and serve warm. For an easier-to-swallow texture, mash or blend further with water or milk before serving.

Nutritional information (per serving): Calories: 480 | Protein: 18 grams | Carbohydrates: 64 grams | Fiber: 8 grams | Fat: 19 grams | Sodium: 240 milligrams

Suitable for: Gluten-free diet (when choosing gluten-free oats and omitting the wheat germ), high-calorie diet, Rett syndrome-friendly diet, vegetarian diet

References

1. Rett Syndrome: Comprehensive Care Guidelines — International Rett Syndrome Foundation

Looking for delicious, healthy recipes? Find your next meal here.