Baked Oatmeal With Strawberries
Highlighted under: Clean Healthy Food Favorites
I’ve always loved a warm, cozy breakfast, and baked oatmeal with strawberries has become a cherished favorite in our home. The combination of tart berries and hearty oats creates a comforting dish that can be enjoyed any day of the week. I appreciate how simple it is to prepare, yet it feels indulgent enough to serve on special occasions. You can even customize it with your favorite nuts or spices, making it a versatile recipe to match your taste. Trust me, a slice of this baked oatmeal will make your mornings brighter!
When I first decided to try baked oatmeal, I wasn't sure if it could truly capture the essence of breakfast comfort. After experimenting with different mix-ins, strawberries quickly became my go-to choice, enhancing both the taste and nutrition.
The method of combining oats with milk and egg creates a beautifully baked texture, while the strawberries add a refreshing sweetness that balances the whole dish. I’ve found that a touch of vanilla and cinnamon elevates it even further!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Enjoy the sweetness of fresh strawberries intertwined with hearty oats.
- Perfectly spiced and baked for a warm, satisfying breakfast.
- Can be prepared ahead of time and enjoyed throughout the week.
Choosing the Right Strawberries
When selecting strawberries for your baked oatmeal, look for ripe, fragrant berries that are deep red in color and free from bruises. Fresh strawberries add natural sweetness and a bright flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. If strawberries are out of season, you can substitute with frozen berries, but make sure to thaw and drain them to prevent excess moisture. This will keep your baked oatmeal from becoming soggy.
Additionally, consider mixing in some different berry varieties for a unique twist. Blueberries, raspberries, or even blackberries can complement the oats beautifully. Just be mindful that the sweetness levels vary, so adjust the maple syrup or honey in the recipe accordingly to maintain a balanced flavor.
Understanding Oats and Their Texture
Using rolled oats in this recipe is crucial for achieving the right texture; they hold up well during baking and provide a chewy, substantial bite. Quick oats may become overly mushy when cooked, while steel-cut oats require more liquid and longer baking times. If you prefer using steel-cut oats, increase the baking time significantly and consider adding more milk to ensure they reach the desired softness while maintaining a pleasant chewiness.
It's also important to note that oats absorb liquid as they bake, so if you’re planning to make this dish ahead of time, reduce the liquid slightly to account for this. I’ve found that a little experimentation with liquid levels can yield a perfectly moist baked oatmeal that doesn’t fall apart when served.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients before you start.
Ingredients for Baked Oatmeal
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups milk (or dairy alternative)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (or honey)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1.5 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
Make sure everything is fresh for the best flavor!
Instructions
Follow these easy steps to make your baked oatmeal.
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, and salt, mixing well.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the milk, maple syrup, egg, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth.
Combine and Add Strawberries
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry oat mixture and stir until combined. Gently fold in the sliced strawberries.
Bake
Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
Serve
Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm, optionally topped with additional strawberries or a drizzle of maple syrup.
Enjoy your delicious baked oatmeal as a hearty breakfast!
Pro Tips
- For variations, try adding nuts, other fruits, or different spices for a unique twist each time!
Make-Ahead Tips
One of the best features of baked oatmeal is its make-ahead potential. Prepare the mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator. This not only saves time in the morning but also allows the flavors to meld. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before baking. This helps ensure even cooking.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to regain some moisture if necessary. You’ll find that it tastes just as delightful on days two or three!
Serving Suggestions
Baked oatmeal can be served in a variety of ways to keep things interesting. Try topping each slice with a dollop of Greek yogurt for added creaminess and protein. Alternatively, serve it with a sprinkle of chia seeds or slivered almonds for extra texture and nutrition. The freshness of additional berries can brighten up the dish and make it visually appealing, too.
Consider pairing it with a warm cup of spiced chai or a rich coffee to elevate your breakfast experience. You can even slice it into bars for a convenient on-the-go breakfast option, making it easy to enjoy a healthy start to your day, even when you're busy.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen strawberries instead?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but the texture may be slightly different.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store baked oatmeal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
→ Can I make this vegan?
Absolutely! Use plant-based milk and substitute the egg with a flax egg.
→ What can I substitute for maple syrup?
Honey or agave syrup can be used as an alternative sweetener.
Baked Oatmeal With Strawberries
I’ve always loved a warm, cozy breakfast, and baked oatmeal with strawberries has become a cherished favorite in our home. The combination of tart berries and hearty oats creates a comforting dish that can be enjoyed any day of the week. I appreciate how simple it is to prepare, yet it feels indulgent enough to serve on special occasions. You can even customize it with your favorite nuts or spices, making it a versatile recipe to match your taste. Trust me, a slice of this baked oatmeal will make your mornings brighter!
Created by: Ottoline Reeves
Recipe Type: Clean Healthy Food Favorites
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Baked Oatmeal
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups milk (or dairy alternative)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (or honey)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1.5 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, and salt, mixing well.
In another bowl, whisk together the milk, maple syrup, egg, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry oat mixture and stir until combined. Gently fold in the sliced strawberries.
Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm, optionally topped with additional strawberries or a drizzle of maple syrup.
Extra Tips
- For variations, try adding nuts, other fruits, or different spices for a unique twist each time!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 125mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 7g