In a medium saucepan, combine water, oats, maple syrup, half of brown sugar, vanilla extract, spices and salt cover and let stand for at least 5 minutes before transferring to a stove.
Place saucepan on medium-low heat. And allow oats to come to a simmer, Stirring to prevent scorching. Cook until oats are fluffy and liquid is absorbed. Cover and keep warm until ready to plate.
In a separate saucepan, heat milk until just warmed. Do not boil. Set aside when heated through.
Caramel Bananas
Add remaining brown sugar to a medium stainless or non stick saucepan. Bring sugar to medium heat and allow to slowly melt and caramelize sugar. Lift pan from heat and swirl to reduce the risk of burning.
As soon as sugar begins to brown, add bananas (sliced side down) and butter to the pan. Reduce heat to low and allow caramel to coat bananas. Use wooden spoon or spatula to gently flip banana halves and repeat coating process.