Baked Oatmeal
There’s something incredibly comforting about waking up to the aroma of freshly baked goods, and that’s exactly what the Baked Oatmeal offers. I still remember the first time I made this dish. It was a chilly morning, and I wanted to create a breakfast that not only warmed the soul but also filled the belly. My kitchen was filled with the sweet scent of oats mingling with sugar and vanilla as it baked, wrapping me in a cozy embrace. The fun part? It tastes as good as it smells!
Imagine gathering around the table with my family, sharing stories as we dove into squares of this delightful dish, each bite packed with texture and flavor. The beauty of Baked Oatmeal is its versatility; you can customize it with your favorite toppings or mix-ins. Whether it’s the crunch of almonds, the sweetness of chocolate chips, or a hint of toasted coconut, each variation brings a new experience to the table.
This recipe has become a staple in my home, especially on lazy weekend mornings. It’s not just a dish; it’s an invitation to slow down and savor the moment. I love how it can be prepared ahead of time; just bake it, slice it up, and you have breakfast ready to go for the week. There’s no rush, just pure enjoyment of the flavors and the company. Trust me, once you try this Baked Oatmeal, it’ll find a special place on your breakfast table too.
Recipe Snapshot
1 hr 5 mins
20 mins
45 mins
Medium
220 kcal
6 g
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
10 g
Wooden Spoon, Oven, Chef’s Knife, Whisk, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet
What We Adore About This Baked Oatmeal
1. Simple Preparation
The simplicity of Baked Oatmeal is one of its most appealing features. You gather a handful of ingredients, mix them, and let the oven do the work. There’s no fussing around with complicated techniques or multiple cooking methods. This is a dish anyone can whip up, even on a busy morning.
2. Customize to Your Liking
One of the best parts about this recipe is the ability to customize it. You can add fruits like bananas, blueberries, or apples, or top it with nuts and seeds for an extra crunch. The Baked Oatmeal takes these additions beautifully, allowing your creativity to shine through every batch.
3. Nutrient-Packed Start to the Day
This dish is not only satisfying but also packed with nutrients. With the wholesome ingredients like oats, eggs, and milk, you’re getting a good dose of fiber, protein, and healthy fats. It’s a nourishing way to kick off your day.
4. Perfect for Meal Prep
If you’re someone who likes to prepare meals in advance, Baked Oatmeal is your best friend. You can bake a large batch and store it in the fridge for quick breakfasts throughout the week. Just reheat and enjoy your warm, hearty meal in minutes.
5. A Family-Friendly Favorite
Kids love Baked Oatmeal! It’s sweet enough to be a treat but wholesome enough for parents to feel good about serving it. It’s a great way to get kids excited about breakfast, ensuring they start their day with energy.
6. Great for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a quiet weekend breakfast, a brunch gathering with friends, or even a holiday feast, Baked Oatmeal fits right in. It can be dressed up with fancy toppings or kept simple for everyday enjoyment.
Main Ingredients for Baked Oatmeal
The ingredients for Baked Oatmeal are not only easy to find but also work in harmony to create a delicious and nourishing dish. Each ingredient plays a vital role in texture and flavor, making this recipe both comforting and satisfying. Let’s dive into the key players that come together to make this breakfast delight.
- 4 1/2 cups quick oats – The star of the show, these oats provide the base for your Baked Oatmeal, offering a chewy texture and hearty flavor.
- 3/4 cup sugar – This adds the perfect touch of sweetness, balancing the heartiness of the oats.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder – This is essential for achieving that perfect rise, giving your oatmeal a fluffy texture.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – A key ingredient that enhances the flavors of the dish.
- 3 large eggs – They contribute to the richness and help bind the ingredients together.
- 2 cups milk – Whether you prefer dairy or non-dairy options, milk brings moisture and creaminess to the dish.
- 3/4 cup canola oil – This adds fat for richness and helps keep the oatmeal moist.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – It infuses a lovely warmth and depth of flavor.
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips – A delightful addition, offering pockets of sweetness as they melt into the warm oatmeal.
- 1/3 cup sliced almonds – These add a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor.
- 1/3 cup flaked coconut – Toasted coconut enhances the dish with its tropical sweetness and texture.
- 2 tablespoons hemp hearts – These boost the nutritional profile, adding protein and healthy fats.
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds – Rich in fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, adding a health kick to the dish.
- Milk or cream for drizzling – A flavorful finish, making each serving a bit more indulgent.
Baked Oatmeal Instructions
Making Baked Oatmeal is as enjoyable as eating it! This recipe is straightforward and incredibly rewarding. Let’s get started on creating this delicious breakfast that will soon become a family favorite.
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This ensures a nice, even baking temperature that will help the oatmeal rise and brown perfectly.
- Spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick spray. This step is crucial to prevent the oatmeal from sticking and make clean-up easier later.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the oats, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Make sure they are well combined to ensure even sweetness and flavor throughout.
- In a smaller bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, canola oil, and vanilla extract. This mixture adds moisture and richness to your oatmeal.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until they are just combined. Don’t overmix, as this can make your oatmeal dense.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. This ensures that it bakes uniformly and every bite is delicious.
- Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and set. You’ll know it’s ready when it springs back slightly when touched.
- Remove the dish from the oven and place the chocolate chips on top right away. They will melt beautifully into the warm oatmeal, creating sweet pockets of chocolate.
- Top with the coconut, almonds, hemp hearts, and chia seeds. Each adds flavor and texture, making this dish even more delightful.
- Let it cool slightly before cutting into squares. This resting period helps firm up the oatmeal, making for cleaner cuts.
- Serve warm with a drizzle of milk or cream. This final touch adds a creamy richness that you won’t want to miss!
Things Worth Knowing
- Watch the Bake: Keep an eye on your Baked Oatmeal towards the end of the baking time. Ovens can vary, and you want to catch it when it’s perfectly golden.
- Serving Size: This dish is easily sliceable, so consider how many portions you want before cutting to ensure everyone gets a piece!
- Mix-Ins: Feel free to experiment with different mix-ins like nuts, dried fruits, or spices to make it your own.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for up to a week. Just reheat in the microwave.
- Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is fully preheated to achieve the best texture and flavor in your Baked Oatmeal.
Substitutions and Tips
When it comes to Baked Oatmeal, there are plenty of ways to make this dish your own. Here are some helpful tips and substitutions to consider.
- Storage: Leftover Baked Oatmeal can be stored in the fridge for up to one week. Make sure to cover it well to keep it fresh.
- Freezing: You can also freeze portions for a quick breakfast option. Just cut into squares, wrap tightly, and store in a freezer-safe container.
- Pairing: For a full breakfast experience, serve with fresh fruits or yogurt. They complement the oatmeal beautifully!
- Variations: Adjust the sweetness by using honey or maple syrup instead of sugar if you prefer a natural sweetener.
- Make it Vegan: Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use a plant-based milk to make it vegan-friendly.
What Goes Well With This Baked Oatmeal
Serving Baked Oatmeal can be just as exciting as making it! Here are some wonderful ideas to enhance your meal.
- Fresh Fruits: Top your oatmeal with seasonal fruits like bananas, berries, or sliced apples for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Yogurt: Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt for added creaminess and a protein boost.
- Nut Butters: Drizzle with almond or peanut butter for a rich and nutty touch.
- Perfect for Brunch: This dish is excellent for brunch gatherings; it can easily feed a crowd and is sure to impress!
- Quick Breakfast: Baked Oatmeal can be a quick breakfast option on busy mornings. Just reheat and enjoy!
- Warm Beverages: Pair with a cozy cup of coffee or tea to round out your breakfast experience.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Baked Oatmeal is truly a heartwarming dish that brings comfort and nourishment to your table. With its easy preparation and endless customization options, it can easily fit into your routine as a favorite breakfast or brunch item. I encourage you to give it a try; you might just find yourself craving it every morning!
Baked Oatmeal
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This ensures a nice, even baking temperature that will help the oatmeal rise and brown perfectly.
- Spray a 9x13 inch baking dish with nonstick spray. This step is crucial to prevent the oatmeal from sticking and make clean-up easier later.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the oats, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Make sure they are well combined to ensure even sweetness and flavor throughout.
- In a smaller bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, canola oil, and vanilla extract. This mixture adds moisture and richness to your oatmeal.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until they are just combined. Don’t overmix, as this can make your oatmeal dense.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. This ensures that it bakes uniformly and every bite is delicious.
- Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and set. You’ll know it’s ready when it springs back slightly when touched.
- Remove the dish from the oven and place the chocolate chips on top right away. They will melt beautifully into the warm oatmeal, creating sweet pockets of chocolate.
- Top with the coconut, almonds, hemp hearts, and chia seeds. Each adds flavor and texture, making this dish even more delightful.
- Let it cool slightly before cutting into squares. This resting period helps firm up the oatmeal, making for cleaner cuts.
- Serve warm with a drizzle of milk or cream. This final touch adds a creamy richness that you won’t want to miss!
Notes
- Storage: Leftover Baked Oatmeal can be stored in the fridge for up to one week. Make sure to cover it well to keep it fresh.
- Freezing: You can also freeze portions for a quick breakfast option. Just cut into squares, wrap tightly, and store in a freezer-safe container.
- Pairing: For a full breakfast experience, serve with fresh fruits or yogurt. They complement the oatmeal beautifully!
- Variations: Adjust the sweetness by using honey or maple syrup instead of sugar if you prefer a natural sweetener.
- Make it Vegan: Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use a plant-based milk to make it vegan-friendly.
