The Ultimate Baked Oatmeal Recipe: Healthy, Delicious, and Customizable
Are you looking for a healthy, delicious, and easy breakfast option that's also perfect for meal prepping? Look no further than baked oatmeal! This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to your liking with different fruits, nuts, and spices. It's the perfect way to start your day with a nutritious and satisfying meal.
Why Choose Baked Oatmeal?
Baked oatmeal offers several advantages over traditional cooked oatmeal:
- Convenience: Prepare it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week for a grab-and-go breakfast.
- Healthy: Packed with fiber, protein, and whole grains, it keeps you full and energized.
- Versatile: Endless possibilities for customization with your favorite fruits, nuts, seeds, and spices.
- Delicious: The baking process creates a wonderfully moist and comforting texture.
- Make-ahead friendly: Perfect for busy mornings, meal prep, or even overnight oats!
The Recipe: Classic Baked Oatmeal
This recipe serves 6-8 and is easily halved or doubled depending on your needs.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups rolled oats (not instant)
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (or more, to taste!)
- 2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (or honey)
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil (or other oil)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional Add-ins: 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, almonds), 1/2 cup berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries), 1/2 cup chopped apple or banana, 1/4 cup chocolate chips
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the oats, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract.
- Combine wet and dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Don't overmix!
- Add-ins: Gently fold in your choice of add-ins.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and set.
- Cool slightly: Let the baked oatmeal cool for a few minutes before serving.
Tips and Variations:
- Make it sweeter: Add more maple syrup or honey to taste.
- Add protein: Stir in a scoop of protein powder or some chia seeds.
- Spice it up: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom.
- Fruit variations: Use any fruit you enjoy – peaches, pears, or even dried cranberries work well.
- Nut variations: Pecans, walnuts, or even sunflower seeds add great texture and flavor.
- Overnight oats adaptation: Combine all ingredients in a jar or container and refrigerate overnight. Enjoy cold in the morning.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your baked oatmeal warm or cold, topped with your favorite toppings such as:
- Fresh fruit
- Nuts and seeds
- Yogurt or milk
- A drizzle of honey or maple syrup
This versatile baked oatmeal recipe is a healthy, delicious, and convenient way to start your day. With endless customization options, you'll never get bored! Enjoy!
