Name: Baked Oatmeal Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 1 1/2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy); 2 large eggs; 1/3 cup maple syrup or brown sugar; 2 tablespoons melted butter or coconut oil; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Berries (such as blueberries or raspberries); Chopped apples; Nuts (such as walnuts or pecans); Chocolate chips

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If you are on the hunt for a warm, hearty breakfast that feels like a cozy morning hug, this Baked Oatmeal Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine a soft, tender center with a lightly crisp top that holds a medley of cinnamon, vanilla, and just the right touch of sweetness. Perfect for busy mornings, it’s a comforting dish you can make ahead and enjoy all week long. Whether you like it plain or loaded with fruits and nuts, this baked oatmeal feels both indulgent and wholesome, making breakfast not just a meal, but a delightful experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows six ingredients arranged neatly on a round white marble board with a wooden section on the right side. Starting from the top left, there are two brown eggs placed in a small round beige bowl. To the right of the eggs is a clear glass measuring cup filled with white liquid, likely milk. Below the eggs is a small beige bowl filled with white flour. In the center is a small transparent bowl holding a dark amber liquid, possibly syrup. Below this is a larger beige bowl filled with light tan rolled oats. On the far right side, lying on the wooden part of the board, is a yellow banana with a few small brown spots. The background is white marble. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun, and for this dish, each component plays a crucial role in creating that iconic texture and flavor. These simple pantry staples come together effortlessly, bringing warmth, sweetness, and a touch of spice to every bite.

2 cups rolled oats: Rolled oats give the oatmeal its perfect chewy texture; remember, quick oats won’t hold up as well in baking.
1 1/2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy): Adds moisture and smoothness, making the bake rich and creamy inside.
2 large eggs: Bind everything together and add a slight fluffiness to the dish.
1/3 cup maple syrup or brown sugar: Sweetens naturally with a hint of caramel warmth—you can adjust to taste.
2 tablespoons melted butter or coconut oil: Boosts richness and helps develop that golden crust on top.
1 teaspoon baking powder: Introduces a subtle lift so the texture isn’t dense.
1 teaspoon cinnamon: Infuses cozy spice that makes each bite reminiscent of comforting mornings.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds aromatic sweetness that enhances all flavors.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and brightens the other ingredients.
Optional mix-ins (berries, chopped apples, nuts, or chocolate chips): Customize your baked oatmeal with these flavorful additions for extra texture and taste.

How to Make Baked Oatmeal Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish thoroughly, so your oatmeal doesn’t stick and comes out effortlessly after baking. The even heat ensures your baked oatmeal cooks to perfection with a lightly golden top.

Step 2: Whisk the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, your chosen sweetener (maple syrup or brown sugar), melted butter or coconut oil, and vanilla extract until everything is well combined and smooth. This mixture forms the flavorful base that will make your baked oatmeal moist and tender.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

Stir in the rolled oats along with the baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. If you’re feeling creative, now is the time to fold in those optional mix-ins like fresh berries, chopped apples, crunchy nuts, or even chocolate chips. Each addition adds a unique twist that makes this dish your own.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Pour the concoction into your prepared baking dish, spreading it down evenly with a spatula. Slip it into the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the top is lightly golden and the center is set. The aroma during baking will fill your kitchen with an inviting warmth that’s hard to resist.

Step 5: Let It Cool Slightly

After baking, allow your baked oatmeal to cool for a few minutes. This resting time helps it set fully and makes slicing or scooping easier, so you get those perfect, hearty servings every time.

How to Serve Baked Oatmeal Recipe

Garnishes

Top your baked oatmeal with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a splash of cream for richness. Fresh fruit like sliced bananas, berries, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts adds crunch and color. Drizzle a little extra maple syrup or honey for added sweetness—it’s all about layering flavors and textures to make each serving feel special.

Side Dishes

Pair this baked oatmeal with crispy bacon or savory breakfast sausage for those who like a sweet and savory breakfast combo. A side of fresh fruit salad or a cup of steaming coffee complements the dish beautifully and rounds out a fulfilling morning meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving your baked oatmeal straight from the baking dish family-style, perfect for sharing around the breakfast table. Or, for a fancy brunch, cut it into neat squares and top each with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh mint. You can even layer portions in glass jars with yogurt and fruit for an Insta-worthy breakfast parfait.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover baked oatmeal in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay delicious for up to 5 days. This meal prep convenience means you can enjoy a nutritious and comforting breakfast without any hassle during busy mornings.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this Baked Oatmeal Recipe beyond a single week, freeze leftover portions individually wrapped in plastic or foil. When vacuum-sealed or tightly wrapped, it can last up to three months in the freezer without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating

To reheat, pop a slice or portion in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or warm it gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until heated through. Adding a splash of milk before microwaving can help restore moisture and soften the texture if it’s been chilled or frozen.

FAQs

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

It’s best to stick with rolled oats for this recipe because quick oats tend to become too mushy when baked, losing the slightly chewy texture that makes baked oatmeal so delightful.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Swap the eggs with flax or chia egg substitutes, use coconut oil or vegan butter, and choose your favorite plant-based milk to keep it fully vegan without sacrificing taste or texture.

How can I make this baked oatmeal less sweet?

Simply reduce the amount of maple syrup or brown sugar, or omit it altogether if you prefer. You can also add naturally sweet fruits like ripe bananas or apples to bring in gentle sweetness without added sugars.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Absolutely. This Baked Oatmeal Recipe is fantastic for meal prepping breakfasts that you can grab and go during busy weekdays. It keeps well in the fridge and freezes beautifully for longer storage.

What are some good mix-ins to add to the baked oatmeal?

Try fresh berries, chopped apples, toasted nuts, shredded coconut, or even chocolate chips for a treat. Mix and match according to your mood to keep things exciting!

Final Thoughts

This Baked Oatmeal Recipe has become a favorite for a reason—it’s simple, comforting, and endlessly adaptable. Once you try making it, you’ll see how easy it is to make wholesome mornings happen with minimal fuss and maximum joy. So go ahead, bake a batch, and enjoy the warm, cozy goodness that only baked oatmeal can bring to your table.