Baked Breakfast Oatmeal is a warm and cozy dish that’s perfect for busy mornings. Made with hearty oats, milk, and your choice of fruits, it’s both filling and delicious!
I love to make this on weekends and enjoy it all week. It’s like having a warm hug for breakfast! Plus, you can add nuts or chocolate if you’re feeling fancy. 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats are best for this recipe as they provide a good texture. If you’re gluten-free, look for certified gluten-free oats. Quick oats can be used but will result in a mushier texture.
Pecans: Chopped pecans add a nice crunch, but you can swap them for walnuts or almonds if needed. Sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds are great nut-free alternatives!
Sweetener: Brown sugar gives a rich flavor, but if you prefer a lighter option, maple syrup or honey works well too. You can even reduce the sweetener if you like a less sugary taste.
Milk: Any kind of milk works—dairy, almond, soy, or oat milk are all excellent choices. If you need it dairy-free, go for plant-based milk for the same creamy effect!
Blueberries: Fresh blueberries are delightful, but if they’re out of season, frozen blueberries are a fantastic substitute. Just toss them in frozen—no need to thaw!
How Do I Ensure the Oatmeal Sets Perfectly?
Getting the right texture with your baked oatmeal is easy when you follow these steps:
- Combine dry ingredients first to evenly distribute the baking powder and cinnamon.
- Make sure to whisk wet ingredients thoroughly to prevent any clumps of butter or egg.
- The oatmeal needs time to bake—don’t rush it! Watch for a golden color and the middle should be set—not jiggly.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, add a bit more milk to the mixture before baking.
Letting it cool slightly before serving helps it firm up too. Enjoy your cozy breakfast! 🌞
How to Make Baked Breakfast Oatmeal
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (plus extra for topping)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar or maple syrup
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 2 cups milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 2 large eggs
- 3 tbsp melted butter or coconut oil
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries (plus extra for topping)
- Fresh strawberries for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Baked Breakfast Oatmeal takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 35-40 minutes to bake, making the total time around 45-50 minutes. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, lightly grease an 8×8 inch baking dish so the oatmeal will come out easily later.
2. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped pecans, brown sugar (or maple syrup), ground cinnamon, salt, and baking powder. Mix everything together until well combined.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, melted butter (or coconut oil), and vanilla extract. Make sure this mixture is nicely blended.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
Now pour the wet ingredients over the dry oat mixture and stir everything together until combined. This is where the magic begins!
5. Fold in Blueberries:
Gently fold in the blueberries, being careful not to break them, so they stay whole and juicy in the oatmeal.
6. Prepare for Baking:
Pour the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle some extra pecans and blueberries on top for an attractive finish.
7. Bake and Enjoy:
Put the baking dish in the oven and let it bake for 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and the center is set. Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
8. Serve up Your Delicious Creation:
Serve the baked oatmeal warm, garnished with fresh strawberries and, if you want, a drizzle of extra milk or a scoop of yogurt on the side!
Now it’s time to dig in and enjoy your hearty, delicious baked breakfast oatmeal! Perfect for starting your day on a cozy note! 🍓😊
Can I Use Steel-Cut Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Steel-cut oats will give a chewier texture, which is still tasty but will require a longer cooking time. If using steel-cut oats, consider adjusting the baking time to about 10-15 minutes longer, and you may also want to soak them in water for a few hours prior to baking.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the milk with any plant-based milk, such as almond, oat, or soy milk. Just make sure to choose a variety that you enjoy and that has a similar consistency to dairy milk for the best results.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover baked oatmeal in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or oven; adding a splash of milk can help restore some moisture while reheating.
Can I Add Other Fruits or Nuts?
Yes, feel free to customize the recipe with your favorite fruits or nuts! Chopped apples, bananas, or raisins work wonderfully. You can also try different nuts like walnuts or almonds for variety.
