Baked Oatmeal Recipe: a delightful morning treat that has captured the hearts of breakfast lovers everywhere! This comforting dish has historical roots that stretch back generations, often serving as a wholesome family favorite. Originally crafted as a way to utilize oats, a staple grain known for its nutritional benefits, the Baked Oatmeal Recipe has evolved into a versatile canvas for flavors. Whether enjoyed as a warm breakfast or a satisfying snack, its unique combination of textures and tastes makes it a cherished choice among many. It’s no wonder that once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself coming back for more!
What Is Baked Oatmeal Recipe
Baked Oatmeal Recipe is a scrumptious baked dish made primarily from rolled oats, combined with eggs, milk, and a delightful array of add-ins such as fruits, nuts, and spices. Unlike traditional oatmeal, which is cooked on the stovetop, this baked version offers a unique, chewy texture with a crispy top that contrasts beautifully with the soft, creamy interior. It’s reminiscent of a hearty cake or a warm breakfast bar, making it a fantastic alternative to pancakes or waffles. The beauty of the Baked Oatmeal Recipe lies in its adaptability; you can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients, ensuring each batch feels like a new creation!
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: Simply mix, pour, and bake – it’s that simple!
- Deliciously Versatile: Customize with your favorite fruits, nuts, or spices.
- Family-Friendly: A wholesome dish that even picky eaters will enjoy.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.
How Does It Taste?
The Baked Oatmeal Recipe is a delightful explosion of flavors and textures. Imagine biting into a warm, golden-brown square that’s sweetened just right, with hints of cinnamon and hints of nutty goodness from the oats. The fruits you add, whether it’s ripe bananas, juicy berries, or tart apples, burst with freshness and complement the hearty oats perfectly. Each bite is a comforting embrace, with the crispy top layer giving way to a soft, chewy center that’s both satisfying and indulgent.
Health & Ingredient Benefits
This Baked Oatmeal Recipe is not just delicious; it’s also packed with health benefits. Here are a few key ingredients and their perks:
- Rolled Oats: High in fiber, they help keep you full and satisfied, promoting digestive health.
- Eggs: A fantastic source of protein, they add richness and help bind the ingredients together.
- Fruits: Depending on what you choose, fruits provide vitamins, antioxidants, and natural sweetness without added sugars.
- Nuts: They add crunch and healthy fats, supporting heart health and providing energy.
So, whether you’re looking to impress your family at breakfast or meal prep for the week ahead, the Baked Oatmeal Recipe is your new go-to dish!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups rolled oats – Provides a hearty base for the baked oatmeal.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps the oatmeal rise and become fluffy.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon – Adds warmth and depth of flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
- 2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy) – Moistens the oats and adds creaminess.
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey – Sweetens the dish naturally.
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil or butter – Adds richness and a slight nutty flavor.
- 2 large eggs – Binds the ingredients together and adds protein.
- 1 cup of your choice of fruit (like blueberries, bananas, or apples) – Introduces natural sweetness and texture.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – For combining all the ingredients.
- Whisk – To mix wet and dry ingredients thoroughly.
- 9×9 inch baking dish – Ideal for baking the oatmeal evenly.
- Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate ingredient portions.
- Spatula – For spreading the mixture evenly in the baking dish.
Optional Substitutions & Additions
Feel free to customize your baked oatmeal with these substitutions:
- Milk: Use almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
- Sweeteners: Substitute maple syrup with agave nectar or brown sugar.
- Fruits: Try adding nuts, seeds, or dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for extra texture and flavors.
- Spices: Experiment with nutmeg or vanilla extract for a different aromatic profile.
How to Make Baked Oatmeal Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the baked oatmeal cooks evenly and achieves a golden top.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients first allows the baking powder to distribute evenly throughout the oats.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the milk, maple syrup, melted coconut oil (or butter), and eggs until well combined. This creates a smooth mixture that will enrich the oats.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients and stir gently until everything is just combined. You want to avoid over-mixing to keep the texture light and fluffy.
Step 5: Add Fruit
Fold in your choice of fruit gently into the mixture. If using berries, you can toss them in whole; for bananas or apples, you might want to slice them into smaller pieces for even distribution.
Step 6: Bake the Oatmeal
Spread the mixture evenly into a greased 9×9 inch baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, allow the oatmeal to cool for about 5 minutes. Cut it into squares and serve warm, perhaps with a drizzle of additional maple syrup or a scoop of yogurt.
What to Serve With
Baked oatmeal pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit, a dollop of Greek yogurt, or a splash of milk. For beverages, consider serving it with a hot cup of coffee or a refreshing glass of milk or almond milk.
Tips for Success
- Make sure to use rolled oats, not quick oats or instant oats, for the best texture.
- Give your baked oatmeal time to cool slightly before serving; it firms up as it cools.
- Experiment with spices to find your perfect flavor profile—don’t shy away from adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger!
- For added crunch, top with nuts or a sprinkle of granola before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using quick oats instead of rolled oats, which can lead to a mushy texture.
- Overmixing the batter, which can make the oatmeal dense rather than fluffy.
- Skipping the cooling step; serving it too hot can lead to a messy presentation.
- Not greasing the baking dish properly, which can make it hard to serve later on.
How to Store & Reheat
Storing
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze individual servings wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 months.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds if refrigerated, or 1-2 minutes if frozen. Add a splash of milk before reheating to keep it moist.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make baked oatmeal ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare it the night before, refrigerate it, and bake it in the morning.
- Is baked oatmeal gluten-free? If using certified gluten-free oats, then yes, it can be gluten-free.
- Can I use steel-cut oats instead? Steel-cut oats will require more liquid and a longer baking time, so they are not recommended for this recipe without adjustments.
- How do I know when it’s done baking? It should be firm to the touch and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
Nutritional Info
This baked oatmeal recipe yields approximately 9 servings, with each serving containing around 150-200 calories, depending on the specific ingredients used. It’s a great source of fiber and can be customized for protein, healthy fats, and sweetness based on your preferences.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a warm, comforting, and nourishing breakfast that will leave you feeling satisfied, then this Baked Oatmeal Recipe is a must-try! It’s not just about the delicious flavors and textures; it’s about the ease and versatility that this recipe brings to your morning routine. With simple ingredients and the option to customize it to your taste, you can create a dish that’s perfect for your family and friends. Whether you enjoy it straight out of the oven or as a quick grab-and-go option throughout the week, I promise that this Baked Oatmeal Recipe will quickly become a favorite in your home. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the delightful experience of baking something wholesome and delicious!
Baked Oatmeal Recipe
A delightful baked oatmeal dish featuring rolled oats, fresh berries, and a hint of cinnamon, perfect for a healthy breakfast.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Nonstick cooking spray
- 1 cup sliced almonds
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 2 1/2 cups milk
- 2/3 cup maple syrup, plus more to serve
- 1 large egg
- 3 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh blueberries, divided
- 1 cup fresh raspberries, divided
- Greek yogurt, to serve
Instructions
-
Step 1
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. -
Step 2
In a large bowl, mix oats, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, and salt. -
Step 3
In another bowl, whisk milk, maple syrup, egg, melted butter, and vanilla. -
Step 4
Combine wet and dry ingredients, then fold in half of the blueberries and raspberries. -
Step 5
Spread mixture in the baking dish and top with remaining berries. -
Step 6
Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. -
Step 7
Cool for 5 minutes, then serve warm with Greek yogurt and additional maple syrup.
Important Information
Nutrition Facts
Per serving: ~350 calories. Based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Allergy Information
Always check labels for specific allergen information.