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How to Make Baked Oatmeal:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your oatmeal bakes evenly and becomes golden on top.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. This forms the base of the oatmeal, giving it a creamy texture while adding a touch of sweetness.
3. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, mix together the rolled oats, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Stir until the dry ingredients are well combined.
4. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients Together:
Pour the dry oat mixture into the wet ingredients and stir to combine. The oats will soak up the liquid, creating a hearty and moist texture once baked.
5. Add the Mix-ins:
Fold in the berries, nuts, and raisins (if using). You can customize this step based on your preferences—add extra fruit or nuts if you like, or swap out the raisins for dried coconut or chocolate chips for a sweeter twist.
6. Bake the Oatmeal:
Pour the oatmeal mixture into a greased or buttered 9×9-inch baking dish. Use a spatula to spread the mixture evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the oatmeal has set. You can check the doneness by inserting a knife into the center—if it comes out clean, it’s ready!
7. Let It Cool and Serve:
Once the baked oatmeal is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Slice it into squares and serve. You can enjoy it warm as-is, or top it with a dollop of yogurt, extra fruit, or a drizzle of honey for added flavor.
Tips for Perfect Baked Oatmeal:
- Make It Ahead of Time: Baked oatmeal can be prepared the night before. Simply mix all the ingredients, cover the dish, and refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, bake it as usual and enjoy a hassle-free breakfast.
- Add More Flavor: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom for a unique flavor profile. You can also add a spoonful of peanut butter or almond butter for extra richness.
- Double the Recipe: If you have a large family or want to make a batch for the week, double the recipe and bake it in a larger dish. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4-5 days and reheated for a quick breakfast option.
- Use Seasonal Fruits: Depending on the time of year, feel free to swap out the berries for seasonal fruits like apples, pears, or peaches. These fruits bake beautifully and add a burst of flavor to the oatmeal.
Serving Suggestions:
Baked oatmeal is delicious on its own, but it can also be served with a variety of toppings. Here are some ideas to make it even more enjoyable:
- Greek Yogurt: For a creamy texture and a protein boost, add a spoonful of Greek yogurt on top of your baked oatmeal.
- Nut Butter: Swirl in a little peanut butter or almond butter for a rich and satisfying flavor.
- Fresh Fruit: Top your oatmeal with fresh slices of banana, strawberries, or kiwi for an extra burst of sweetness.
- Nuts and Seeds: Add extra crunch with a sprinkle of chopped nuts, chia seeds, or flaxseeds.
Conclusion:
This Baked Oatmeal Recipe is the perfect balance of simplicity, flavor, and nutrition. Whether you’re feeding your family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to become a favorite. It’s versatile, customizable, and packed with ingredients that will keep you full and energized throughout the morning. So, why not give this easy and satisfying recipe a try? It’s a breakfast that’s not only delicious but also good for you!
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