Breakfast is like the opening act of our day, and this easy one-pan baked oatmeal might just steal the show. Imagine waking up to the smell of warm oats mingling with cinnamon (or maybe it’s just the coffee kicking in) – it’s like a cozy hug from the inside. And hey, with mornings being as unpredictable as the latest TikTok trends, knowing you’ve got this wholesome, fuss-free meal ready can be the calm in the chaos.
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease an 8×11 baking dish with nonstick spray.
- In the baking dish, mash two ripe bananas using a fork until smooth.
- Add rolled oats to the mashed bananas, followed by chia seeds and your choice of milk, then stir the mixture well.
- Scatter frozen mixed berries over the top, then sprinkle with cinnamon and optional lemon zest for extra flavor.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes, or until the liquid has been absorbed.
- If desired, drizzle maple syrup over the baked oatmeal before serving for added sweetness.
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas (3 if desired, with an additional ½ cup of oats)
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds (or 2 tablespoons ground flaxseeds, or 1-2 eggs)
- 2 cups milk (any type, or water)
- 1 cup frozen berries (or fresh fruit)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
- ¼ cup almond or peanut butter
- ½ cup chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds
- ¼ cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
FAQ
- How should I store and reheat baked oatmeal?
- You can keep your baked oatmeal in the original baking dish by covering it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and placing it in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat it in the microwave for a couple of minutes or warm it up in the oven.
- Is it possible to freeze baked oatmeal?
- Absolutely! Once your baked oatmeal has cooled completely, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag, and it can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as desired.
- What can I do if my baked oatmeal turns out soggy?
- A soggy texture might result from an imbalance in the oats to milk ratio or insufficient baking time. You can try adding a bit of oat flour or almond flour to soak up excess moisture. Additionally, baking it for an extra 5 minutes and allowing it to rest before serving can help.
- Can I make this recipe in the microwave?
- Yes, if you’re short on time, you can prepare this baked oatmeal in the microwave. Cook it on high for about two to three minutes for a quicker alternative to oven baking.
Tips
- Ensure Even Sweetness: Thoroughly mash the bananas before mixing them with other ingredients. This helps distribute the natural sweetness evenly throughout the dish, as there’s no added sugar in the recipe.
- Prevent Sticking: Before starting, spray the baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. This precaution makes clean-up easier and prevents the oatmeal from sticking to the dish.
- Optimize Texture: Allow the mixture to sit for about 10 minutes before baking. This resting time lets the oats and chia seeds absorb the liquid, improving the overall texture of the baked oatmeal.
- Quick Cooking Option: If you’re short on time, consider using a microwave. Cook the oatmeal mixture on high for two to three minutes as a faster alternative to baking in the oven.
Equipment
- 8×11 Baking Dish
- Nonstick Cooking Spray
