Baked Oatmeal with Blueberries
Baked oatmeal with blueberries isn't just a meal, it's a delightful experience. Before we dive into how to create this dish, let's consider what pairs wonderfully with it.
Equipment
- Oven, Bowl
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled old-fashioned oats: The base of your dish providing texture and heartiness.
- ⅓ cup pure maple syrup or honey: Natural sweeteners that add flavor without overkill.
- 12 ounces 1 pint fresh or frozen blueberries: The star ingredient; blueberries pack a flavor punch and are rich in antioxidants.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: A warm spice that rounds out the flavors beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest: The citrus elevates the dish with a refreshing note.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: For a slight lift making the oats fluffy.
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract: Flavors take center stage with this ingredient.
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg: An additional spice that helps create a cozy atmosphere.
- 2 large eggs or flax eggs as vegan substitute: Crucial for binding and adding protein.
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds: These tiny seeds are nutrient-dense and help with texture.
- ¾ teaspoon fine sea salt: Just the right amount enhances overall flavors.
- 3 tablespoons melted unsalted butter or coconut oil: Necessary fat for moisture and richness.
- 1 ¾ cups milk of choice almond, coconut, oat, or dairy milk all work well: This liquid gives the dish its delightful creaminess.
- ⅔ cup coarsely chopped pecans: Optional but they add a crunchy element and depth.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it’s piping hot and ready for action when you’re done prepping.
Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish
- Grease an 8x8-inch baking dish with a bit of butter or coconut oil. This prevents sticking and makes clean-up easier.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, chia seeds, and salt. Stir them together until well dispersed.
Step 4: Combine the Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, maple syrup (or honey), melted butter (or coconut oil), vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Make sure this mixture is well blended.
Step 5: Fold It Together
- Now, pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Add half of the blueberries and fold everything together gently.
Step 6: Transfer to the Baking Dish
- Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Then, sprinkle the remaining blueberries over the top. If you’re adding nuts, sprinkle them on as well.
Step 7: Bake
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until it’s set in the middle. A toothpick should come out clean. You want a nice golden top with bursting blueberries!
Step 8: Cool and Serve
- Once your baked oatmeal has finished baking, allow it to cool for 10-15 minutes before cutting into squares. It will hold together better and be easier to serve.
Notes
Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Ripe Blueberries: Choose fresh blueberries if you can find them. If using frozen, there’s no need to thaw; simply toss them in straight from the freezer.
Sweetness: Adjust the honey or maple syrup to taste. You can always try it before putting it in the oven.
Storage: Unsure about how fast it will be eaten? Feel free to double this recipe. It keeps well in the fridge for about five days.
Vegan Option: For a vegan version, just replace the eggs with flax eggs and the milk with a plant-based alternative.
Toppings: Consider serving with yogurt, additional fruit, or honey drizzle on top to elevate your dish.
Sweetness: Adjust the honey or maple syrup to taste. You can always try it before putting it in the oven.
Storage: Unsure about how fast it will be eaten? Feel free to double this recipe. It keeps well in the fridge for about five days.
Vegan Option: For a vegan version, just replace the eggs with flax eggs and the milk with a plant-based alternative.
Toppings: Consider serving with yogurt, additional fruit, or honey drizzle on top to elevate your dish.
Nutrition
Calories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 6gFat: 7gFiber: 4gSugar: 8g
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!