Blueberry Baked Oatmeal
Whenever I think of comfort food, Blueberry Baked Oatmeal immediately pops into my mind. It’s one of those dishes that fills the house with warmth and a sweet aroma that beckons everyone to the kitchen. I still remember the first time I made it for my family on a chilly Saturday morning. As the oatmeal baked, I could hear the gentle hum of conversation and laughter echoing in the background, with my kids peeking into the oven every few minutes, eagerly anticipating the golden, bubbling goodness. Each bite of that soft, chewy oatmeal, bursting with juicy blueberries, felt like a cozy hug on a plate. It’s not just a dish; it’s a memory-maker, perfect for lazy weekends or even breakfast for dinner nights. With every serving, I’m reminded of the joy of sharing delicious moments with loved ones.
Recipe Snapshot
40 mins
10 mins
30 mins
Easy
220 kcal
6 g
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
8 g
Baking Sheet, Chef’s Knife, Oven, Mixing Bowl
Why You’ll Love This Blueberry Baked Oatmeal
It’s Healthy and Nutritious
What I love most about Blueberry Baked Oatmeal is how healthy it is. Packed with fiber from the oats and antioxidants from the blueberries, this dish makes for a wholesome breakfast that keeps you full and energized throughout the day. You can enjoy it without the guilt, knowing you’re treating your body right.
Versatile for Any Meal
This baked oatmeal isn’t just for breakfast; it can easily transition into a hearty snack or dessert. Top it with a dollop of yogurt or some nut butter, and you have a satisfying afternoon pick-me-up. It’s also fantastic served warm with a drizzle of maple syrup or a sprinkle of nuts!
Easy to Prepare
Honestly, I appreciate recipes that come together without much fuss. For Blueberry Baked Oatmeal, you simply mix everything in a baking dish, pop it in the oven, and let it work its magic. It’s a one-bowl wonder that saves you from doing endless dishes!
Great for Meal Prep
If you’re like me and often find yourself racing against time during the week, this recipe is a lifesaver. You can bake a big batch and store it in the fridge, making it easy to grab a slice in the morning as you rush out the door. It holds up well, so you can enjoy it throughout the week.
Customizable to Your Taste
One of the best aspects of this recipe is the flexibility it offers. You can easily mix in your favorite fruits, nuts, or spices, tailoring it to suit your taste. Whether you want to add in some chopped apples or a hint of vanilla, the possibilities are endless.
Essential Ingredients for Blueberry Baked Oatmeal
When it comes to crafting the perfect Blueberry Baked Oatmeal, the ingredients play a crucial role. Each component brings its unique character to the dish, working harmoniously together to create a delightful breakfast. The star ingredients, such as the oats and blueberries, are not just tasty but also contribute to a healthy meal that can be enjoyed any time of the year. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need!
- 12 ounces fresh or frozen blueberries – These juicy gems provide natural sweetness and a burst of flavor, making the dish vibrant and delicious.
- 2 cups rolled oats – The base of our baked oatmeal, these hearty oats are filling and nutritious.
- 1/2 cup quick-cooking oats – A little extra texture goes a long way in creating that perfect bite!
- 2 tablespoons ground flax seed – This adds a dose of omega-3 fatty acids and helps bind the ingredients together.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon – A warm spice that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom (optional) – For those who enjoy a hint of exotic flavor.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – This is essential for a light, fluffy texture.
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
- 2 1/2 cups non-dairy milk of choice – This makes the oatmeal creamy and delicious; use your favorite variety!
- 1/4 cup grade A maple syrup – A natural sweetener that pairs beautifully with the oats and berries.
- Juice of 1/2 lemon – This adds a bright, zesty flavor that complements the blueberries.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional) – A touch of this brings warmth and depth to the dish.
- 1/2 cup roughly chopped walnuts (optional) – For a crunchy texture and a boost of healthy fats.
How to Prepare Blueberry Baked Oatmeal
Preparing Blueberry Baked Oatmeal is an enjoyable process that fills your kitchen with delightful aromas. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll be on your way to creating a dish that not only tastes wonderful but also fills the heart with warmth. Let’s dive in!
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Preheat your oven to 350F. This is an important step to ensure your oatmeal bakes evenly and achieves that beautiful golden top.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, quick oats, flax seed, cinnamon, cardamom, baking powder, and salt. Mix them well, ensuring that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed. This will help your baked oatmeal rise uniformly.
In another bowl, mix together the milk, maple syrup, lemon juice, and vanilla extract if using. Stir well so that all the flavors meld together.
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Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold in the blueberries. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to keep the blueberries intact for those delightful bursts of flavor.
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13” baking dish, spreading it evenly. This ensures that every piece gets that perfect crust as it bakes.
For an extra touch, sprinkle additional blueberries on top before baking. This not only looks beautiful but adds even more fruity goodness!
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Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes or until the top is golden brown. If you prefer a creamier texture, check for doneness around the 20 to 25 minutes mark.
Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will make it easier to slice and serve.
Serve warm for a softer oatmeal, or let it cool completely in the dish before slicing it into bars. Either way, it’s delicious!
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Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or pre-portion the oatmeal and freeze it for up to 2 months.
Things Worth Knowing
- Cooking Time: Keep an eye on your oatmeal while it bakes. The baking time can vary based on your oven, so check periodically.
- Texture: For a creamier oatmeal, bake for a shorter time. The longer you bake, the firmer it will become.
- Mix-Ins: Feel free to get creative! Add nuts, seeds, or dried fruits to enhance the flavor and texture.
- Storage: Properly stored, this baked oatmeal can last in the fridge for up to five days, making it a great meal prep option.
Pro Tips and Tweaks
When making Blueberry Baked Oatmeal, a few tips can elevate your dish to the next level. Here are some ideas to consider:
- Storage: After baking, allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Reheat servings in the microwave for a quick breakfast!
- Freezing: This dish freezes well! Cut the baked oatmeal into individual portions and freeze them. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat directly from the freezer.
- Pairing: Enjoy your baked oatmeal with a side of fresh fruit or a drizzle of nut butter for added flavor and nutrition.
- Variations: Try incorporating different fruits like raspberries or bananas, or experiment with spices like nutmeg for a personalized touch.
- Serving: This dish can be served as a warm breakfast, a snack, or even a delightful dessert topped with yogurt!
Accompaniments for Blueberry Baked Oatmeal
Serving Blueberry Baked Oatmeal is as versatile as the dish itself. Here are some delightful pairings and occasions to consider:
- Breakfast or Brunch: This dish is perfect for lazy weekend breakfasts or brunch with friends. Serve it warm from the oven, accompanied by coffee or tea.
- Snack Time: Cut into bars and pack them for a nutritious on-the-go snack. They’re great for both kids and adults!
- Seasonal Fruits: Pair with seasonal fruits like strawberries or peaches during summer for a refreshing twist.
- Holiday Treat: Serve this baked oatmeal during festive gatherings with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a drizzle of maple syrup for a cozy touch.
- Meal Prep: Prepare a batch at the beginning of the week for easy breakfast options. Just reheat and enjoy!
FAQ
Conclusion
In summary, Blueberry Baked Oatmeal is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, as a snack, or even dessert, it’s sure to please everyone. I encourage you to try making it for your next meal and share it with loved ones. You won’t be disappointed!
Blueberry Baked Oatmeal
Equipment
- Baking Sheet
- Chef's Knife
- Oven
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
- 12 ounces fresh or frozen blueberries
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup quick-cooking oats or use more rolled oats
- 2 tablespoons ground flax seed or sub chia seed
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom optional
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 1/2 cups non-dairy milk of choice
- 1/4 cup grade A maple syrup
- Juice of 1/2 lemon 1 tablespoon forgot to film/add to ingredients
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract optional
- 1/2 cup roughly chopped walnuts optional
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350F.
- Add the rolled oats, quick oats, flax seed, cinnamon, cardamom, baking powder, and salt to a 9×13” baking dish and mix well.
- Add the milk, maple syrup, lemon juice, vanilla, and thawed blueberries and mix again. Top the oatmeal with additional fresh blueberries, if desired.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until the top of the oatmeal is golden (Note: if you want to serve a runnier oatmeal, bake for only 20 to 25 minutes).
- Serve immediately for a softer oatmeal, or let the oatmeal cool in the baking dish, then slice and serve into bars. Serve as-is or with a drizzle of nut butter and/or milk. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or pre-portion the oatmeal and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Notes
Fresh vs Frozen Blueberries: This recipe tastes delicious with both fresh and frozen blueberries – frozen berries are usually more cost-effective, so I tend to use those. If using frozen berries let them fully thaw in the bag and do not drain the liquid.
Maple Syrup: Swap the maple syrup for equal parts cane sugar, agave, or brown sugar. This recipe is not very sweet as-is, but feel free to add more or less sweetener to your personal preference.
Walnuts: Swap the walnuts for pecans, almonds, or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free option!
Protein Powder: Add 1-2 scoops of vanilla protein powder to this recipe for a protein boost! If doing this, increase the liquid to 3 cups and omit the sweetener.
