Baked Breakfast Oatmeal is a warm and comforting way to start your day. It’s packed with wholesome oats, fruits, and nuts, making it both tasty and healthy!
Plus, it fills your kitchen with a delightful smell while baking—who needs coffee when you have that? I love serving it with a splash of milk or a drizzle of honey on top!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Old-fashioned Rolled Oats: These are key for a hearty texture. Instant oats won’t work as well because they can become mushy. If you need a gluten-free option, make sure to use certified gluten-free oats!
Baking Powder: This helps the oatmeal rise a bit while baking. If you’re out, you can substitute with 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda combined with 1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar for a similar effect.
Milk: You can use any milk you prefer. Almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk are great plant-based choices. If you’re lactose intolerant, those will work perfectly here!
Egg: For a vegan option, you can replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) or 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce.
Maple Syrup or Honey: Both add sweetness. If you’re looking for a lower-calorie sweetener, you might try stevia or any other sweetener of your choice, but adjust the quantity according to taste.
Mixed Berries: Fresh berries are fantastic, but you can also use frozen ones. Just be aware they may add a bit more moisture, so thaw them first and drain any excess water.
How Can I Make Sure the Oatmeal Sets Properly?
Getting the right texture in baked oatmeal is key. Here are a few tips to ensure it sets well:
- Use old-fashioned oats, not instant or steel-cut, as they absorb moisture differently.
- The mixture should be somewhat thick; if it seems too runny when you pour it into the baking dish, consider adding a bit more oats or letting it sit for a few minutes.
- Make sure to bake it until the edges are slightly golden and a knife comes out clean from the center. This indicates it’s fully set!
Allow it to cool a little before serving so it can firm up a bit more. This will help you scoop out neat portions! Enjoy this delicious and nutritious breakfast treat!
Baked Breakfast Oatmeal
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 medium ripe banana, sliced (plus extra for topping)
- 1 cup mixed berries (blueberries, strawberries, blackberries, raspberries)
- 1/3 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (plus extra for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious baked breakfast oatmeal takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 35–40 minutes in the oven. After it’s baked, let it cool for a few minutes, and then you can enjoy it warm. It’s a cozy way to start your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating, lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the old-fashioned rolled oats, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir everything together so it’s evenly mixed.
3. Create the Wet Mixture:
In another bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, maple syrup (or honey), melted butter (or coconut oil), and vanilla extract until it’s smooth and well combined.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and gently fold them together. Then, add in the sliced banana, mixed berries, and chopped nuts. Stir until everything is nicely blended.
5. Prepare for Baking:
Transfer the oatmeal mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it out evenly. To make it extra special, top the mixture with some more banana slices, fresh berries, and a sprinkle of nuts.
6. Bake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for 35-40 minutes. Look for a golden top and a set center to know it’s ready!
7. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, and if you like, top with a drizzle of extra maple syrup or a splash of milk.
Enjoy a wholesome, comforting baked oatmeal packed with fruit and nuts for a nutritious breakfast that will keep you full and satisfied!
Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
It’s best to stick with old-fashioned rolled oats for this recipe. Quick oats can become too mushy after baking, while rolled oats provide a better texture.
How Do I Store Leftover Baked Oatmeal?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or in the oven until warmed through.
Can I Freeze Baked Oatmeal?
Yes, you can freeze baked oatmeal! Allow it to cool completely, then cut into squares and wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
Feel free to get creative! You can add nuts like almonds or pecans, dried fruits like raisins or cranberries, or even a scoop of nut butter for an extra boost. Just be sure to adjust the sweetness if you add dried fruit.
