This baked protein oatmeal is a warm and hearty dish that is super easy to make! Packed with oats, eggs, and your favorite toppings, it’s a great way to start your day.
It’s like having dessert for breakfast—who wouldn’t want that? I love throwing in some berries and nuts for extra flavor, but you can use whatever you enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These are the base of your baked oatmeal. They give that wonderful chewy texture. If you don’t have rolled oats, quick oats can work, but the texture will be softer. Steel-cut oats aren’t ideal for this recipe as they need longer cooking time.
Protein Powder: I like using vanilla-flavored protein powder for a little extra sweetness. If you’re avoiding protein powders, you can skip it entirely or add 1 more egg for extra protein.
Milk: Dairy or plant-based milk both work well. Almond milk or oat milk would be my go-tos, but feel free to use whatever type you have on hand! Just check for unsweetened versions if you want less sugar.
Mixed Berries: Fresh berries are always tasty, but frozen works just as well and saves money. You could also use chopped apples, bananas, or even dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for a tasty twist!
Nut Butter: I recommend peanut or almond butter for drizzling because it adds a creamy texture. If you have allergies, sunflower seed butter is a great nut-free alternative.
How Can You Ensure Your Baked Oatmeal Is Moist and Flavorful?
To make sure your baked oatmeal stays moist and delicious, follow these simple steps:
- Mix wet and dry ingredients separately to combine flavors better.
- Don’t skip the eggs—they add moisture and help bind the mixture together.
- Make sure to use enough liquid (like milk) since the oats absorb a lot. Adjust the amount if needed as you mix.
- Check for doneness around the 35-minute mark. It should be set but slightly soft in the center for the best texture.
By following these tips, you’ll have a wonderfully moist baked oatmeal that’s bursting with flavor! Enjoy your healthy breakfast!
How to Make Baked Protein Oatmeal
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Oatmeal Base:
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup protein powder (vanilla or unflavored)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
For the Wet Ingredients:
- 2 cups milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup or honey
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Add-Ins and Toppings:
- 1 1/2 cups mixed berries (fresh or frozen; e.g., blueberries, raspberries, strawberries)
- 2 tbsp peanut butter or almond butter (for drizzling/topping)
- Additional fresh berries for garnishing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This baked protein oatmeal takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 35-40 minutes to bake, so in total, you should set aside about 50 minutes. It’s a quick process to whip up a nutritious breakfast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating, lightly grease a medium baking dish (around 8×8 inches) with cooking spray or a bit of butter to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, protein powder, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir them together so everything is well mixed and ready for the wet ingredients.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk the milk, eggs, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract together until they’re nicely combined. This helps to make sure the eggs are fully mixed in.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
Now it’s time to pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir everything together until it’s evenly mixed. Don’t worry if the mixture feels a bit thick – that’s perfectly fine!
5. Add the Berries:
Gently fold in the mixed berries, being careful not to crush them too much. If you want, reserve a few berries to sprinkle on top later for a pretty presentation!
6. Pour and Spread in the Dish:
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly with a spatula to make sure it cooks uniformly.
7. Bake It Up:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will make it easier to cut into squares.
9. Drizzle and Garnish:
For the finishing touch, drizzle your favorite nut butter over the top and add any extra berries as a garnish.
10. Enjoy!
Serve warm and dig into your delicious protein-packed baked oatmeal. It’s a perfect breakfast to keep you full and satisfied!
This recipe makes about 4 servings, ideal for meal prep or sharing. Enjoy this comforting, healthy start to your day!
Can I Use Different Types of Protein Powder?
Absolutely! Vanilla or unflavored protein powder works best for this recipe, but you can use plant-based, whey, or any protein powder you prefer. Just make sure it’s something you enjoy since the flavor will come through in the oatmeal!
Can I Substitute the Eggs?
Yes, you can replace the eggs with flax eggs for a vegan option! Simply mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg, let it sit for a few minutes to thicken, and then use it in the recipe.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 30 seconds or until warmed through. A splash of milk can help retain moisture during reheating.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance, store it in the fridge overnight, and then bake it in the morning. Alternatively, bake it ahead of time and simply reheat individual portions as needed throughout the week for a quick breakfast!
