Best Baked Oats Recipe For A Healthy Morning

• Easy to Make: This recipe is simple and doesn’t require any fancy equipment or advanced cooking skills. With just a blender and an oven, you can whip up a warm, comforting breakfast in no time.
• Customizable: Whether you enjoy oats with a crunch from nuts, the sweetness of chocolate chips, or the burst of flavor from fresh berries, this recipe is very versatile. You can mix and match ingredients to create your perfect bowl every time.
• Great for Meal Prep: If you’re someone who likes to plan ahead, this recipe is ideal. You can make a batch of baked oats, store it in the fridge, and have a ready-to-go breakfast for several days. Just heat it up and enjoy a homemade meal without the morning rush.
• Allergen-Friendly: This recipe can easily be adapted to fit your dietary needs. Use gluten-free oats for a gluten-free option, or swap out regular milk for a plant-based alternative like almond or oat milk to make it dairy-free. It’s a recipe that’s flexible enough for everyone to enjoy.
• Healthy: Made with wholesome ingredients like rolled oats and bananas, and optional spices like cinnamon, this dish is both nutritious and delicious. It provides a good balance of fiber, protein, and natural sweetness, giving you the energy you need to start your day right.

Oats

The base of the recipe, oats provide a hearty texture and are packed with fiber to keep you full. Use rolled oats or old-fashioned oats for the best texture. They are hearty and absorb liquid well, which helps the baked oats achieve a chewy, cake-like consistency.

Banana

Choose ripe bananas as they are sweeter and more flavorful. Ripe bananas will naturally sweeten the dish and add moisture. If you have overripe bananas, they are perfect for this recipe. For an alternative, you can use mashed apples or pumpkin puree, though this will slightly alter the flavor.

Milk

Any type of milk will work, whether it's dairy or a plant-based variety like almond, soy, or oat milk. The milk combines with the oats to create a creamy texture. If you're using non-dairy milk, ensure it's unsweetened to avoid adding unnecessary sugars.

Egg

The egg helps bind the ingredients together and gives the baked oats a fluffy texture. To make the recipe vegan, you can substitute the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water, let sit for a few minutes) or a chia seed egg.

Baking Powder

This leavening agent helps the oats rise and become light and airy. Be sure to use fresh baking powder for the best results.

Vanilla Extract

Adds a sweet aroma and enhances the overall flavor of the baked oats. Use pure vanilla extract for the best taste, but imitation vanilla can also be used if that’s what you have on hand.

Salt

Just a pinch of salt helps to balance out the sweetness and brings out the flavors of the other ingredients.

Cinnamon

This spice adds warmth and a subtle hint of sweetness. It complements the banana and other mix-ins beautifully. If cinnamon isn't your favorite, you can leave it out or replace it with a different spice, like nutmeg.

Honey or Maple Syrup

These natural sweeteners enhance the sweetness of the oats. Honey adds a rich flavor, while maple syrup provides a distinct taste. If you prefer a lower-sugar option, you can use a sugar substitute like stevia or omit the sweetener if the banana is sweet enough for you.

Other Mix-Ins (Chocolate Chips, Berries, or Nuts)

These are optional but add extra texture and flavor. Chocolate chips melt into the oats, berries burst with juice, and nuts add a satisfying crunch. Feel free to experiment with your favorites or what you have on hand. Simply fold them in gently before baking to evenly distribute throughout the mixture.

To make the best baked oats recipe, you'll need a few essential tools. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:

• Blender or Food Processor: For blending the oats, banana, milk, egg, and other ingredients.
• Mixing Bowl: For combining and folding in any mix-ins if you’re not using a blender.
• Spatula: To fold in mix-ins gently and scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well-mixed.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Needed for accurately measuring out ingredients like oats, milk, and sweeteners.
• Baking Dish or Ramekin: An oven-safe dish where you'll pour the oat mixture to bake. A small baking dish or individual ramekins work well.
• Greasing Agent: Oil or butter for greasing the baking dish to prevent sticking.
• Oven Mitts: Protect your hands when handling the hot baking dish from the oven.
• Toothpick or Cake Tester: To check if the baked oats are done. Insert it into the center to ensure it comes out clean.
• Cooling Rack (Optional): Useful for cooling the baked oats quickly and evenly after baking.

Ingredients

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 ripe banana (for natural sweetness)
• 1/2 cup milk of choice (almond, oat, or dairy)
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder (for fluffiness)
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (for added flavor)
• Pinch of salt
• Pinch of mixed spice or ground cinnamon (for warmth and aroma)
• 1-2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)
• 1/4 cup mix-ins like chocolate chips, berries, or nuts (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating ensures your oats bake evenly and get a nice, golden crust.

2. Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients you'll need. Peel and slice the banana, measure out the oats, and have everything ready on your counter. This makes the process go smoothly.

3. Blend the Base

Place the rolled oats, banana, milk, egg, baking powder, vanilla extract, salt, and the pinch of mixed spice or ground cinnamon into a blender. Blend everything until you get a smooth, creamy mixture. The oats should break down, creating a batter-like consistency.

4. Taste and Adjust Sweetness

Once you’ve blended the oats, banana, milk, and other ingredients into a smooth mixture, it’s time to check the sweetness. Take a small spoonful of the blended batter and taste it to see if it has the level of sweetness you prefer.

If you find it needs a little more sweetness, add honey or maple syrup. Start with a tablespoon or so, depending on how sweet you like your baked oatmeal. After adding the sweetener, blend the mixture again for a few seconds.

5. Add Mix-ins

Pour the mixture into a bowl if you’re using chunky mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips. Gently fold in your chosen mix-ins using a spatula. If you’re adding berries, be gentle to avoid crushing them.

6. Prepare the Baking Dish

Lightly grease a small baking dish or oven-safe ramekin with oil or butter. This step ensures the baked oats won’t stick to the dish and makes cleanup easier.

7. Bake the Oats

Pour the oat mixture into your prepared dish. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The baked oats are ready when the top turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. Cool and Serve

After baking, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This resting time helps the oats set and makes them easier to serve. Enjoy your baked oats warm, either straight from the dish or topped with fresh fruit, yogurt, or a drizzle of honey.

To bake oats, you typically need to cook them at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 to 25 minutes. The exact time can vary based on a few factors. If you’re using a smaller or larger baking dish, the thickness of the oat mixture will change, which can affect how long it takes to bake.

A thicker mixture might need a bit more time, while a thinner one might cook faster. Additionally, if you add extra ingredients like fruits or nuts, they can also impact the baking time. Always check the oats by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when they’re fully baked.

Adjust the baking time as needed to ensure they’re cooked through and have a nice, golden top.

There are countless topping options for baked oatmeal. Here are a few ideas.

• Fresh Fruit: Sliced bananas, berries, or apple chunks add natural sweetness and a burst of flavor. Try strawberries, blueberries, or even kiwi.
• Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, or flaxseeds provide a satisfying crunch and extra nutrition. Toast them lightly for added flavor.
• Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt or dairy-free yogurt adds creaminess and a protein boost. You can also use flavored yogurts for extra taste.
• Nut Butters: Drizzle almond butter, peanut butter, or cashew butter on top for a rich, nutty flavor. This also adds healthy fats and protein.
• Spices: Sprinkle a bit of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or mixed spice for an extra layer of warmth and aroma.
• Granola: Add some granola for extra crunch and a bit of sweetness. It’s also a great way to add more texture.
• Chocolate Chips: For a treat, sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top. They melt slightly and add a delicious touch.
• Coconut Flakes: Shredded coconut adds a tropical flavor and chewy texture.
• Dried Fruit: Raisins, cranberries, or chopped dates can add a chewy, sweet contrast to the baked oats.

Baked oatmeal is not just a great everyday breakfast; it’s also an ideal choice for a brunch spread. Here are some ideas for what to serve it with:

Eggs

Pair baked oatmeal with a savory egg dish to balance flavors. Consider serving it with a dairy-free spinach quiche or delicious egg white bites for a satisfying combination.

Fruit

A bowl of fresh fruit complements baked oatmeal perfectly. Try an easy fruit salad to add a refreshing, colorful touch to your brunch spread.

Protein

Enhance your meal with a breakfast protein of your choice. Options like chicken sausage, bacon, or turkey bacon work well. For a vegan alternative, consider adding tempeh bacon for a savory, plant-based option.

Cocktail

If you’re hosting an adult brunch, serve baked oatmeal with a light cocktail. Mimosas or peach bellinis make a delightful pairing, adding a touch of festivity to your meal.

Coffee

Round out your brunch with a warm cup of coffee. Whether you opt for plain coffee, creamy iced coffee, or a homemade pumpkin spice latte, it’s the perfect beverage to enjoy alongside your baked oatmeal.

To store baked oatmeal, follow these steps:

1. Cool It: Let the baked oatmeal cool to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation and keeps it from getting soggy.
2. Cover It: Use a lid or plastic wrap to cover the baking dish. This helps keep the oatmeal fresh and prevents it from drying out or picking up other odors from the fridge.
3. Refrigerate: Place the covered dish in the refrigerator. Baked oatmeal can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.
4. Freeze (Optional): For longer storage, you can freeze baked oatmeal. Cut it into individual portions and place them in airtight freezer bags or containers. Label the bags with the date. Frozen baked oatmeal can be kept for up to 3 months.
5. Reheat: To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or in the oven until heated through. If it seems dry, you can add a splash of milk to restore some moisture.