If you love the comforting flavors of warm oats and crave a breakfast that’s both wholesome and effortless, you absolutely have to try this Baked Oatmeal Recipe. It’s a cozy, golden-baked dish brimming with soft oats, subtle sweetness, and your favorite add-ins—all in one pan! Whether you adore classic banana flavor or prefer applesauce, every bite feels hearty and nourishing, making this a go-to for busy mornings or lazy weekend brunches. Plus, this recipe is endlessly customizable and perfect for meal-prep, so you can always have a hearty breakfast ready to go!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Baked Oatmeal Recipe comes together with staples you likely already have in your pantry, each ingredient playing its own special part in creating a tender, slightly sweet, forkable bake. Don’t skip or skimp—these all add magic to the final result!
- Old-fashioned rolled oats: The star of the show; they bake up soft yet hearty, creating the perfect texture.
- Mashed ripe banana or unsweetened applesauce: Brings natural sweetness and moisture, giving a tender, lightly fruity base.
- Maple syrup or honey: Just the right touch of sweetness to make each bite feel special without being cloying.
- Large eggs: These help bind everything together and add a little protein boost.
- Milk (dairy or non-dairy): Makes the oats deliciously creamy and keeps the bake from drying out.
- Vanilla extract: Infuses the whole dish with inviting aroma and flavor—don’t skip it!
- Baking powder: Gives the oatmeal a gentle lift for a fluffier, lighter texture.
- Ground cinnamon: Adds cozy warmth that pairs perfectly with the oats and banana or applesauce.
- Salt: Just a pinch brings all the flavors together and enhances the oats’ natural nuttiness.
- Chopped nuts, berries, or chocolate chips (optional): These mix-ins introduce extra bursts of flavor and delightful variety in every bite.
How to Make Baked Oatmeal Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep the Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures an even, golden bake from edge to center. Lightly grease an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or a little oil, so your oatmeal squares slip out easily when it’s time to serve.
Step 2: Whisk the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, mash your ripe banana or add the applesauce, then whisk in the maple syrup (or honey), eggs, milk, and that dreamy vanilla extract. This blend sets the stage for moist, gently sweet baked oats and smells absolutely heavenly as you mix.
Step 3: Stir in the Dry Ingredients
Add your rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt straight into your wet mixture. Stir until just combined—no over-mixing! This is where the wholesome, cozy character of your Baked Oatmeal Recipe starts to come together.
Step 4: Fold in Your Favorite Mix-Ins
If you’re feeling creative, now’s the time to fold in a generous handful of chopped nuts, fresh or frozen berries, or even a sprinkle of chocolate chips. This personal touch makes the recipe truly yours—and it’s a great way to use up what you already have in the kitchen.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pour the oat mixture into your prepared dish and spread it out evenly. Pop it in the oven for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is set and lightly golden, and your kitchen smells like a bakery! Let it cool for a few minutes before diving in for clean, satisfying slices.
How to Serve Baked Oatmeal Recipe
Garnishes
Once your Baked Oatmeal Recipe is out of the oven, let’s make it even more irresistible! Top each serving with a drizzle of warm maple syrup, a dollop of creamy yogurt, a handful of fresh berries, or a scattering of toasted nuts. These toppings add color, crunch, and an extra spark of flavor that makes your breakfast unforgettable.
Side Dishes
Pair your warm oatmeal squares with a crisp fruit salad, velvety scrambled eggs, or your favorite smoothie for a complete and satisfying meal. A steaming mug of coffee or herbal tea on the side also makes this breakfast feel extra special and comforting.
Creative Ways to Present
You can make individual portions using muffin trays for easy grab-and-go breakfasts, stack thick slices with layers of yogurt and fruit parfait-style, or cut the oatmeal into fun shapes for little ones. Embracing playful presentations makes your Baked Oatmeal Recipe experience even more delightful!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Baked Oatmeal Recipe can be covered and kept in the fridge for up to five days. It holds its shape beautifully and makes breakfast time a breeze throughout the week—just grab a square, reheat, and go!
Freezing
To freeze, let the oatmeal cool completely, then slice it into portions and wrap individually or layer between parchment paper in an airtight container. It freezes well for up to three months, ready to thaw overnight for fast mornings.
Reheating
To enjoy your oatmeal bake hot and fresh, just pop a square in the microwave for about 30 seconds to a minute. If you like your oats extra creamy, add a splash of milk before reheating to keep things moist and tender.
FAQs
Can I make this Baked Oatmeal Recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Swap the eggs for flax eggs (2 tablespoons flaxseed meal mixed with 5 tablespoons water), use your favorite non-dairy milk, and choose maple syrup over honey for a delicious vegan-friendly version.
What are the best mix-ins for this recipe?
The sky’s the limit! Berries, dried cranberries, diced apples, chopped pecans, walnuts, or even dark chocolate chips all taste fantastic in this Baked Oatmeal Recipe. Mix and match according to your cravings or what’s in your pantry.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Yes! Simply double all ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. The bake time may need an extra 5–10 minutes, so keep an eye on it and test the center for doneness before serving.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be! Just ensure you’re using certified gluten-free rolled oats to make this Baked Oatmeal Recipe completely safe for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Can I prep this dish the night before?
Definitely. Assemble everything in your baking dish, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake in the morning as directed—breakfast made easy and fresh!
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re new to baked oats or a long-time fan, this Baked Oatmeal Recipe delivers reliable comfort with every bite. I can’t recommend enough that you give it a try—mix, bake, and share this little bit of breakfast magic with your loved ones. Happy baking!
Print
Baked Oatmeal Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Baked Oatmeal Recipe is a wholesome and delicious breakfast option that can be easily customized with your favorite mix-ins like nuts, berries, or chocolate chips.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup mashed ripe banana or unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
- 2 large eggs
- 1 3/4 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional Mix-ins:
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts, berries, or chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mashed banana or applesauce, maple syrup, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Stir in the oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- Include Mix-ins: Fold in any optional mix-ins such as berries, nuts, or chocolate chips.
- Bake: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set.
- Serve: Let cool slightly before slicing and serving warm.
Notes
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 5 days and reheated in the microwave.
- For a make-ahead option, prepare the night before and bake in the morning.
- Add more milk when reheating if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
