Baked oats are a delicious and nutritious breakfast option that can be easily prepared in an 8×8 baking dish. This recipe combines oats with milk, eggs, and your favorite mix-ins for a hearty meal that can be enjoyed warm or reheated throughout the week.
The preparation is simple, making it perfect for busy mornings. You can customize the flavors by adding fruits, nuts, or spices to suit your taste.
Creating the Perfect Baked Oats
Baked oats have become a popular choice for breakfast, offering a warm and satisfying start to the day. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also allows for a variety of mix-ins to cater to different tastes.
The beauty of baked oats lies in their versatility. You can customize them with fruits, nuts, or even chocolate chips, making each batch unique. This adaptability ensures that you can enjoy a different flavor profile every time you bake.
Ingredients That Make a Difference
The foundation of baked oats is simple yet effective. Rolled oats, milk, and eggs come together to create a fluffy texture that is both filling and nutritious. Sweeteners like maple syrup or honey add a touch of sweetness, while spices such as cinnamon can enhance the flavor.
Mix-ins are where the fun begins! Fresh berries, nuts, or seeds can be folded into the mixture, providing bursts of flavor and added nutrition. This flexibility allows you to tailor the dish to your preferences or what you have on hand.
Step-by-Step Preparation
Preparing baked oats is straightforward, making it an ideal choice for busy mornings. Start by preheating your oven and greasing an 8×8 baking dish. This ensures that your baked oats will come out easily once they are done.
In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats with milk, eggs, and your choice of sweetener. Stir until everything is well mixed, then gently fold in your selected mix-ins. Pour the mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it evenly before placing it in the oven.
Baking to Perfection
The baking process typically takes about 25-30 minutes. As the oats bake, they transform into a golden-brown delight that fills your kitchen with a comforting aroma. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean, indicating that they are ready to be enjoyed.
Once baked, allow the dish to cool for a few minutes. This makes slicing into squares easier and helps retain the fluffy texture. Serve warm, perhaps with a drizzle of maple syrup and a sprinkle of fresh berries on top for a delightful presentation.
Serving Suggestions
Baked oats can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve them warm straight from the oven, or let them cool and store them in the refrigerator for a quick breakfast option throughout the week. They can be reheated easily, making them a convenient choice for busy schedules.
Pair your baked oats with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast experience. The combination of flavors and textures will surely satisfy your morning cravings.
Nutrition and Benefits
This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Each serving offers a good balance of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats, making it a wholesome breakfast option. The inclusion of oats provides fiber, which is beneficial for digestion and can help keep you feeling full longer.
With the ability to customize ingredients, baked oats can cater to various dietary needs, making them a fantastic choice for anyone looking to enjoy a nutritious meal without compromising on flavor.
Simple Baked Oats Recipe
This baked oats recipe features rolled oats mixed with milk, eggs, and sweeteners, baked until golden brown. It takes about 40 minutes from start to finish and serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- 1 cup mix-ins (e.g., berries, nuts, chocolate chips)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8 baking dish.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, milk, eggs, maple syrup, baking powder, vanilla extract, salt, and cinnamon. Stir until well combined. Fold in your chosen mix-ins.
- Pour into Dish: Pour the oat mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow to cool for a few minutes before slicing into squares. Serve warm or store in the refrigerator for later.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4-6 squares
- Calories: 180kcal
- Fat: 5g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 28g