Nutritious Baked Oatmeal with Nuts, Seeds, and Fruits

How to Make Nutritious Baked Oatmeal with Nuts, Seeds, and Fruits

1. Preheat the Oven:

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with coconut oil or butter to prevent the oatmeal from sticking.

2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, cinnamon, and salt. Stir to distribute the dry ingredients evenly. Add in the chopped nuts and seeds, mixing everything together.

3. Make the Wet Mixture:

In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract until fully combined.

4. Assemble the Oatmeal:

Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly mixed. Fold in the sliced banana (if using) and berries, ensuring they are distributed throughout the oatmeal mixture.

5. Bake:

Pour the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. If desired, sprinkle some extra nuts or seeds on top for added texture and crunch. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

6. Cool and Serve:

Once baked, allow the oatmeal to cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This oatmeal can be served warm with a drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of yogurt for extra creaminess.

Tips for Perfect Nutritious Baked Oatmeal

• Use Your Favorite Fruits: Feel free to swap out the berries for other fruits like apples, pears, or peaches. Fresh or frozen fruits work well in this recipe, making it a great year-round option.
• Adjust Sweetness: The maple syrup can be adjusted to suit your taste. If you prefer a less sweet dish, you can cut back on the syrup or substitute it with a bit of mashed banana for natural sweetness.
• Make It Vegan: To make this recipe vegan, simply swap the eggs for flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg) and use a plant-based milk.
• Make It Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, use almond, coconut, or oat milk and skip the butter in favor of coconut oil.
• Add Extra Protein: Boost the protein content by adding a scoop of protein powder to the wet mixture, or top with a dollop of nut butter when serving.
• Meal Prep-Friendly: This baked oatmeal is perfect for meal prepping. It stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days, and you can even freeze individual portions for a quick breakfast option later.

Why This Baked Oatmeal is a Nutritional Powerhouse

1. Oats: Oats are a fantastic source of fiber, particularly soluble fiber called beta-glucan, which can help lower cholesterol and stabilize blood sugar levels. They also provide long-lasting energy to keep you full for hours.
2. Nuts: Nuts, such as walnuts and almonds, are rich in healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants. They also provide a nice crunch to the baked oatmeal while supporting heart health and improving brain function.
3. Seeds: Seeds like chia and flaxseeds are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein, which help promote healthy digestion and support skin and hair health.
4. Fruits: Fresh or dried fruits add natural sweetness and an extra boost of vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber. Berries, in particular, are low in sugar but high in beneficial compounds that promote overall wellness.
5. Eggs and Milk: Eggs provide high-quality protein, essential vitamins, and minerals, while milk adds calcium and vitamin D to the dish. Both contribute to strong bones and muscle function.

Why You’ll Love Nutritious Baked Oatmeal with Nuts, Seeds, and Fruits

This Nutritious Baked Oatmeal with Nuts, Seeds, and Fruits is more than just a breakfast—it’s a meal that fuels your body with all the nutrients it needs to start the day strong. Whether you’re rushing out the door in the morning or leisurely enjoying a weekend brunch, this oatmeal is versatile, easy to make, and guaranteed to keep you full and satisfied. It’s the perfect choice for anyone looking to nourish their body with wholesome ingredients, without sacrificing flavor or enjoyment.

So, the next time you’re looking for a nutritious, delicious, and filling breakfast, give this baked oatmeal a try. It’s a meal that everyone in the family will love, and it’s a great way to kickstart your day on a healthy note.