What’s it like to wake up to the smell of warm spices and baked goodness wafting through your face?baked oatmeal recipe is my absolute go-to for those mornings when I want something comforting and delicious, but I don’t want to stand over the stove stirring for ages. Think of it as the easier, more forgiving cousin of overnight oats, but with that irresistible baked texture that just screams “cozy.” Seriously, if you love a good bowl of oatmeal but crave something a little more special, this is your answer. My family devours this, and honestly, sometimes I make it just for myself as a little weekend treat. The best part? You can customize it a million different ways! This baked oatmeal is quick to make and will make your kitchen smell like a bakery. The recipe calls for blueberries but feel free to use whatever berries you have on hand.
What is baked oatmeal?
Okay, let’s get down to basics. Baked oatmeal is essentially a casserole made with rolled oats, milk (dairy or non-dairy, it’s all good!), eggs, and a touch of sweetener. Think of it as a cross between a hearty bowl of oatmeal and a soft, comforting bread pudding. It’s essentially a giant bowl of oatmeal that’s been baked to golden perfection. It’s not overly sweet, which I appreciate, and it’s packed with fiber, so it keeps you full for hours. Unlike stovetop oatmeal, baked oatmeal has a wonderfully slightly chewy texture on the edges and a creamy, almost custardy center. And the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! You can add all sorts of fruits, nuts, and spices to customize it to your liking. I’ve even thrown in a handful of chocolate chips once or twice (shhh!).
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Oh, where do I even begin? This baked oatmeal recipe is a game-changer. What I love most about this is how incredibly forgiving it is. You don’t have to be a master baker to pull this off. It’s seriously a dump-and-stir situation.
* **Flavor:** The combination of warm cinnamon, creamy oats, and juicy blueberries is pure bliss. It’s subtly sweet, comforting, and not at all overpowering. It’s the kind of flavor that makes you want to curl up on the couch with a good book. Seriously, I crave this on chilly mornings!
* **Simplicity:** Seriously, this is one of the easiest recipes I have in my arsenal. It takes about 10 minutes to throw together, and then the oven does all the work. It’s perfect for busy mornings when you don’t have time to fuss. Plus, clean-up is a breeze!
* **Cost-efficiency:** The ingredients are all pantry staples! Oats, milk, eggs, a little brown sugar – nothing fancy required. It’s a great way to use up those odds and ends in your fridge and pantry. I sometimes add leftover fruit from my smoothie preps!
* **Versatility:** This is where the fun begins! You can swap out the blueberries for any fruit you like – raspberries, peaches, apples, even bananas. You can add nuts, seeds, chocolate chips, spices… the possibilities are endless! I even have a pumpkin spice version that I make in the fall, and it’s divine. If you love my blueberry baked oatmeal, you should also check out my apple cinnamon baked oatmeal! It’s another family favorite.
How do I make baked oatmeal?
Quick Overview
Making baked oatmeal is surprisingly simple. You basically whisk together the wet ingredients, stir in the dry ingredients, add your favorite mix-ins, and bake until golden brown and set. It’s the kind of recipe that you can easily adapt to your liking, and it’s almost impossible to mess up. The best part? It makes enough for several servings, so you’ll have breakfast ready for days! It’s perfect to meal prep on Sunday so you have breakfast all week.
Ingredients
For the main battery:
* 3 cups rolled oats (not instant) – I always use old-fashioned sliced ice cream for best texture. Quick oats will make it too mushy.
* 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar – You can also use maple syrup or honey, but I love the caramel-y flavor. What is the flavor of brown sugar?
* 1 teaspoon baking powder – This gives the oatmeal a little lift and makes it extra fluffy.
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Because cinnamon makes everything better!
* 1/2 teaspoon salt – Just a pinch to balance out the sweetness.
I’ve used almond milk, oat milk and regular milk. They all taste good. Almond milk makes it a little lighter, while regular milk make it extra creamy. I’ve tried cashew milk and didn’t like it. I have a hard time with it
* 2 large eggs – These help bind everything together.
* 1/4 cup melted butter (or coconut oil) – Butter adds a richness and flavor that’s hard to beat, and can easily be substituted for sour cream. Is coconut oil a good vegan option?
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – A must for adding that touch of warmth and sweetness.
For the Filling:
* 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries – You can use any berry you like. If using frozen, don’t thaw them first. Sometimes I sprinkle a little sugar on the berries before adding to the batter.
Optional Glaze:
* 1/2 cup powdered sugar – This adds a touch of sweetness and makes it look pretty.
* 2-3 tablespoons milk – Just enough to create a smooth, drizzable glaze.
* 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor.
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8×8 inch baking dish (or similar size) with butter or cooking spray. I prefer butter for flavor! I always line the pan with parchment paper for easier cleanup. I learned that the hard way.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Make sure everything is evenly distributed so you don’t get any clumps of baking powder.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, melted butter (or coconut oil), and vanilla extract. You want the eggs to be fully incorporated. Make sure your butter isn’t too hot, or it might cook the eggs!
Step 4: Combine
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Don’t overmix! A few lumps are okay. Overmixing can lead to a tough baked oatmeal.
Step 5: Prepare Filling
Gently fold in the blueberries (or your fruit of choice) into the oatmeal mixture. If using frozen berries, don’t thaw them first. They’ll release their juices as they bake, creating a beautiful, naturally sweet sauce.
Step 6: Bake
Pour the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
Step 7: Cool & Glaze
Let the baked oatmeal cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving. While it’s cooling, you can make the optional glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the top of the baked oatmeal before serving.
Step 8: Slice & Serve
Slice the baked oatmeal into squares and serve warm. Is it good on its own or with a drizzle of maple syrup? Is it a good idea to sprinkle some nuts with syrup? I love adding whipped cream to my desserts!
What should I serve it with?
This baked oatmeal is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in so many ways! It’s fantastic for a quick breakfast, a leisurely brunch, or even a comforting dessert. Here are a few of my favorite serving suggestions:
For Breakfast: Pair a warm slice of baked oatmeal with a cup of strong coffee or a latte. I love adding a dollop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of granola for extra crunch. It’s also delicious with a side of scrambled eggs or bacon for a more substantial meal. My family loves enjoying this baked oatmeal on Saturday mornings.
For Brunch:How do you serve baked oatmeal alongside other brunch favorites? Fruit salad, and mimosas. Cut the oatmeal into smaller squares for a more elegant presentation. I sometimes add edible flowers for a touch of whimsy.
As Dessert: Serve a slice of warm baked oatmeal with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. A drizzle of chocolate sauce or caramel sauce is always a welcome addition. It’s also delicious with a side of fresh berries or a sprinkle of chopped nuts. This is a great recipe if you want dessert but don’t want something super heavy.
For Cozy Snacks: Enjoy a slice of baked oatmeal as a cozy afternoon snack with a cup of tea or hot chocolate. It’s the perfect treat on a chilly day. I love curling up on the couch with a slice of warm oatmeal and a good book.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Baked Oatmeal
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks and tips that will help you make the perfect baked oatmeal every time. Here are some of my best secrets:
Oats: Be sure to use rolled oats (also known as old-fashioned oats) for the best texture. Quick oats will result in a mushy baked oatmeal, while steel-cut oats will be too tough. Rolled oats provide the perfect balance of chewiness and tenderness.
Mixing: Don’t overmix the batter! Overmixing can develop the gluten in the oats, resulting in a tough baked oatmeal. Mix just until the wet and dry ingredients are combined. A few lumps are perfectly fine.
Fruit: Feel free to experiment with different fruits! Berries, peaches, apples, bananas… they all work beautifully. If using frozen fruit, don’t thaw it first. It will release its juices as it bakes, creating a delicious, naturally sweet sauce. My kids are requesting strawberries next time.
Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to get creative with ingredient substitutions! You can use maple syrup or honey instead of brown sugar, coconut oil instead of butter, and any type of milk you like. I’ve even used applesauce in place of some of the butter, and it turned out great!
Baking: Keep an eye on the oatmeal while it’s baking. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can tent it with foil to prevent it from burning. I always check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean.
Glaze: The glaze is optional, but it adds a touch of extra sweetness and makes the baked oatmeal look extra pretty. You can customize the glaze by adding different extracts, such as almond or lemon, or by using different types of milk. I’ve even made a chocolate glaze by adding a spoonful of cocoa powder. Trust me on this one… don’t skip the glaze.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Baked oatmeal is a great make-ahead breakfast or snack, and it stores well in the refrigerator or freezer. Here are some tips for storing and reheating:
Room Temperature: Baked oatmeal can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. The glaze may get a little melty but it will still taste great.
Refrigerator Storage: Baked oatmeal can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Store it in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing odors from the fridge. I usually cut it into individual portions for easy grab-and-go breakfasts.
Freezer Instructions: Baked oatmeal can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. I like to freeze individual slices for a quick and easy breakfast on busy mornings.
Reheating: Reheat baked oatmeal in the microwave for 30-60 seconds, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. If reheating from frozen, you may need to add a few extra minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
This baked oatmeal recipe is more than just a breakfast; it’s a hug in a pan. It’s the kind of recipe that brings back childhood memories and creates new ones. It’s easy, delicious, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re looking for a quick and healthy breakfast, a comforting brunch, or a simple dessert, this recipe has you covered. Seriously, once you try it, you’ll be hooked! It’s my family’s most requested breakfast meal. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out my other breakfast recipes, such as my banana bread and my overnight oats. Happy baking!
baked oatmeal
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cup rolled oats
- 2 cup milk any kind
- 0.5 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 0.25 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8x8 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine all ingredients.
- Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and set.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Top with your favorite toppings.
