Baked Oats

Baked oats have taken the breakfast world by storm, and for good reason! This cozy, wholesome dish is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile.

Whether you’re in a rush or have a leisurely morning ahead, baked oats are the perfect way to fuel your day.

Imagine waking up to the aroma of cinnamon and chocolate wafting through your kitchen as your baked oats bake to perfection.

With creamy textures, warm flavors, and all the nutrients you need, this easy baked oats recipe is here to become your new breakfast obsession.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This baked oats recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and nutrition.

Using simple ingredients, it comes together quickly while providing a satisfying start to your day.

The best part? You can customize it however you like! Pair it with fruit, nuts, or even nut butter, making it a canvas for whatever you desire.

Additionally, it’s perfect for meal prep.

Bake a tray on Sunday, and you’ll have a week’s worth of delicious, nutritious breakfasts ready to go.

Say goodbye to boring breakfasts and hello to delightful, guilt-free indulgence!

Ingredients

To make these scrumptious baked oats, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 cup (80g) rolled oats
• ½ cup (120ml) milk of choice (almond, soy, oat, or cow’s milk are all great options)
• 1 egg
• 1 banana (mashed for natural sweetness)
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons chocolate chips (enjoy dark or dairy-free for more options)
• 1 tablespoon creamy peanut butter (for serving, optional)

How To Make Baked Oats

Creating your own baked oats is a breeze! Follow these simple steps for a breakfast that will keep you smiling:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).

This ensures your baked oats cook evenly and become golden brown on top.

Step 2: Prepare Your Oat Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt.

Stir to combine these dry ingredients thoroughly.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mash the banana until smooth.

Then, add the milk, egg, vanilla extract, and honey or maple syrup.

Whisk everything together until well combined.

The mashed banana will serve as a natural sweetener and will make your oats delectably moist.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet mixture into the dry oat mixture.

Stir gently until everything is well mixed.

Then fold in the chocolate chips for that chocolaty goodness that will elevate your baked oats.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

Grease a baking dish (a small or medium-sized dish works well) with a touch of oil or cooking spray.

Pour your oat mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it evenly.

Step 6: Bake

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Let It Cool and Serve

Once your baked oats are out of the oven, allow it to cool for a few minutes.

For a delightful finishing touch, drizzle with additional honey or a dollop of creamy peanut butter before serving.

It’s perfect to enjoy warm right from the dish or sliced into squares for a grab-and-go breakfast!

Expert Tips

To make your baked oats even more delightful, consider these expert tips:

• Make sure to mash the banana well for even distribution and sweetness.
• Feel free to switch out the chocolate chips for dried fruits, nuts, or seeds for a different texture and flavor profile.
• For a creamy texture, let the oat mixture sit for 10 minutes before baking to allow the oats to soak up the milk.
• Use a glass baking dish for easier monitoring of the baking progress, as it allows you to see the color of the base.

Variations and Customizations

One of the best aspects of baked oats is how customizable they are! Here are a few fun variations to try:

• Add ¼ cup of blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist.
• Mix in a tablespoon of chia seeds or flaxseeds for an extra boost of nutrition.
• Replace the chocolate chips with chopped nuts for crunch.
• Try using different spices such as nutmeg or ginger for a unique flavor.

How to Store Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers (though unlikely because they’re so delicious), let the baked oats cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

They will keep well for 3-4 days.

To reheat, you can use the microwave for about 30-60 seconds, or you can pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

Top with additional honey or your favorite toppings before serving for an extra touch!

FAQ

Can I make baked oats vegan?

Absolutely! To make this recipe vegan, simply replace the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) and use plant-based milk along with maple syrup instead of honey.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! This recipe is easy to scale.

Just double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish to accommodate the increased volume.

Adjust the baking time as needed, checking for doneness with a toothpick.

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

While rolled oats work best for this recipe, you can use quick oats in a pinch.

Just remember that they may result in a softer texture.

If you prefer a heartier bite, stick with rolled oats.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make your baked oats gluten-free, simply ensure that you use certified gluten-free rolled oats and check your milk and any other mix-ins for gluten-containing ingredients.

Conclusion

Baked oats are not just a breakfast option, but a delicious, healthy way to start your day with a smile.

With a few simple ingredients and a little creativity, you can whip up this hearty dish that is as nutritious as it is delightful.

Whether you follow the original recipe or tweak it to fit your tastebuds, baked oats are sure to be a hit at your breakfast table.

So, grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and treat yourself to a cozy bowl of happiness!

Embrace the deliciousness and versatility of baked oats—get ready to fall in love with breakfast all over again!