This baked blueberry oatmeal is a warm and cozy dish, perfect for breakfast or even a snack! It’s packed with juicy blueberries and healthy oats, making it both tasty and good for you.
You’ll love how easy it is to make. Just mix everything together and pop it in the oven. I like to enjoy it with a splash of milk or a dollop of yogurt on top—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Rolled oats give this dish its hearty texture. If you’re gluten-free, choose certified gluten-free oats to ensure there’s no cross-contamination. Steel-cut oats can also work, but they will require a longer baking time.
Blueberries: Fresh blueberries are delightful, but frozen ones are just as good—no need to thaw them! If you’re out of blueberries, try raspberries, chopped apples, or even cranberries for a different taste.
Milk: You can use any kind of milk—almond, oat, or soy milk for dairy-free options. I personally love almond milk for the nutty flavor it adds. For a creamier texture, you can even use half milk and half yogurt!
Maple Syrup or Honey: Both sweeteners work well, but if you’re vegan, stick with maple syrup. Agave syrup is another great substitute since it’s liquid and has a mild flavor. Adjust the sweetness based on your taste!
Nuts: Chopped nuts add a nice crunch. If you have nut allergies or are serving someone with them, try adding seeds like sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds instead.
How Do I Ensure My Oatmeal Sets Perfectly?
Getting your baked oatmeal to set just right is key to a great texture! Follow these tips for best results:
- Mix the wet and dry ingredients well to create an even batter.
- Don’t skip the baking powder; it helps your dish rise and fluff up!
- Keep an eye on the baking time. The top should be golden, and the edges pulled away from the sides of the dish when it’s done.
Letting it cool slightly before serving helps it firm up, making it easier to slice or scoop. Enjoy your warm baked blueberry oatmeal with your favorite toppings!
Baked Blueberry Oatmeal
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 cups milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional, like walnuts or pecans)
- 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil or butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 35-40 minutes to bake, plus a few minutes of cooling time before serving. Overall, you should plan on around 1 hour to enjoy this delicious dish from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your Dish:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, take a baking dish or individual ramekins and grease them lightly with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Give this mixture a gentle stir with a spoon to make sure everything is evenly mixed together.
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, maple syrup (or honey), vanilla extract, and melted coconut oil or butter. Make sure all the wet ingredients are well blended and the egg is fully incorporated.
4. Mix It All Together:
Now, pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir everything together until you can no longer see dry oats. Gently fold in the blueberries and nuts if you’re using them, taking care not to mash the blueberries.
5. Bake the Oatmeal:
Transfer the oatmeal mixture into your prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the oatmeal is set.
6. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will make it easier to cut. Serve warm, garnished with extra blueberries on top, and feel free to add a splash of milk, cream, or yogurt for extra creaminess.
Enjoy your hearty and nutritious baked blueberry oatmeal! Perfect for breakfast, snack time, or even dessert.
Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
It’s best to stick with rolled oats for this recipe, as they provide a better texture and hold up well during baking. Quick oats can become mushy, which might alter the final dish.
How Can I Store Leftover Baked Oatmeal?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or in a preheated oven until warmed through.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! To make it vegan, simply replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let it sit for a few minutes to thicken) and use plant-based milk and maple syrup for sweetness.
What Other Fruits Can I Use?
Feel free to swap blueberries with other fruits like raspberries, strawberries, or diced apples. You might want to adjust the sweetness slightly depending on the fruit’s natural flavor.
