How to Make the Perfect Baked Oatmeal: A Cozy, Nutritious Breakfast

by

Looking for a warm, healthy, and satisfying way to start your day? Baked oatmeal is the ultimate cozy breakfast. It’s easy to make ahead, packed with fiber, and can be customized with your favorite fruits, spices, and toppings.

🥣 Prep Time: 10 minutes | 🔥 Bake Time: 35 minutes | ⏳ Total Time: 45 minutes | 🍽️ Servings: 6

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 2 cups milk (dairy or plant-based)
  • 2 large eggs
  • ¼ cup maple syrup or honey
  • 2 tbsp melted coconut oil or butter
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 ripe banana, mashed (optional for natural sweetness)
  • 1 cup berries, chopped apples, or your favorite fruit
  • Optional toppings: chopped nuts, chocolate chips, shredded coconut

Let’s Bake!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Preheat & Prep:
    Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
    In a large bowl, combine oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
  3. Mix Wet Ingredients:
    In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, maple syrup, melted oil/butter, vanilla, and mashed banana.
  4. Combine & Fold:
    Pour wet ingredients into dry and stir to combine. Gently fold in the fruit.
  5. Transfer & Bake:
    Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with your favorite toppings if desired.
    Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden.
  6. Cool & Serve:
    Let cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm, or refrigerate and reheat for meal prep!

Tips & Variations:

  • Make it dairy-free: Use almond, oat, or soy milk.
  • Add protein: Stir in 2 tbsp of nut butter or 1 scoop of protein powder.
  • Spice it up: Try pumpkin pie spice or cardamom for a twist.
  • Extra sweetness: Add a handful of raisins or a drizzle of honey on top.
  • Make it portable: Bake in muffin tins for grab-and-go oatmeal cups!

Serving Suggestions:

  • Drizzle with almond butter or warm milk
  • Top with Greek yogurt and fresh berries
  • Serve with a side of eggs or a smoothie for a full breakfast

📸 Tried this recipe? Tag @Smoothly_Cooking and show us your perfect baked oatmeal moment! 🍯✨

Leave a Comment