Name: Baked Oatmeal Recipe: Hearty and Comforting
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats; 1 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/4 tsp kosher salt; 1/3 cup maple syrup or honey; 2 cups whole milk; 1 large egg; 2 tbsp unsalted butter (melted); 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup diced apple; 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional); Optional: Fresh berries (maple syrup); Suggested Pairings: Coffee (Greek yogurt)

Introduction

Table of Contents

Baked Oatmeal is a classic breakfast or brunch dish, perfect for family meals, holiday gatherings, or cozy mornings. This hearty, comforting dish, featuring tender oats, warm spices, and a touch of sweetness, delivers a wholesome, satisfying flavor with a soft, cake-like texture. Presented in a white ceramic baking dish or on a white ceramic platter, optionally garnished with fresh berries or a drizzle of maple syrup, this Baked Oatmeal recipe offers a warm, appetizing aesthetic that elevates any table. This recipe provides a traditional version, adaptable for dietary preferences, ideal for home cooks seeking a nutritious, crowd-pleasing breakfast that brings cozy, homestyle charm to any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Baked Oatmeal:

2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1/4 tsp kosher salt
1/3 cup maple syrup or honey
2 cups whole milk (or plant-based milk)
1 large egg
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup diced apple (e.g., Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, about 1 medium apple)
1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

For Serving:

Optional: Fresh berries, maple syrup drizzle
Suggested Accompaniments: Greek yogurt, fresh fruit
Suggested Pairings: Coffee, orange juice
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve in a white ceramic baking dish or on a white ceramic platter
Suggested Equipment: 8×8-inch or 2-quart baking dish, mixing bowls, whisk, measuring cups/spoons, knife, cutting board

Step-by-Step Process

Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch or 2-quart white ceramic baking dish.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine oats, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and nuts (if using).
Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together maple syrup, milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla until smooth. Taste a bit of the wet mixture (safe, as it contains raw egg; use caution) and adjust with a touch of maple syrup or cinnamon for balanced flavor.
Combine and Add Apples: Pour wet ingredients over dry ingredients and stir until combined. Fold in diced apple. Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly.
Bake Oatmeal: Bake for 35–40 minutes, until the top is golden and the center is set. Let cool for 5–10 minutes.
Serve: Serve warm from the white ceramic baking dish or scoop onto a white ceramic platter. Garnish with fresh berries or a drizzle of maple syrup. Pair with Greek yogurt, fresh fruit, coffee, or orange juice.

Tips for Better Baked Oatmeal

Use old-fashioned rolled oats for the best texture; avoid instant oats.
Taste the wet mixture before baking to balance sweet and spiced flavors; adjust cautiously.
Dice apples uniformly (about 1/4-inch pieces) for even distribution.
Avoid overbaking to keep the oatmeal moist and tender.
Present in a white ceramic baking dish or on a white ceramic platter to highlight the golden top and garnishes.
Make ahead: You can assemble the mixture up to one day in advance, store it in the fridge, bake it fresh, and garnish before serving.
For a crispier top, sprinkle 1 tbsp brown sugar over the mixture before baking.
Enhance aesthetic: Garnish with fresh berries or maple syrup on a white ceramic platter for a vibrant, cozy look.

Variations and Customization

Gluten-Free Baked Oatmeal: Use certified gluten-free oats and baking powder.
Vegan Baked Oatmeal: Replace milk with almond or oat milk, egg with 1/4 cup applesauce, and butter with coconut oil.
Low-Sugar Baked Oatmeal: Reduce maple syrup to 2 tbsp; use unsweetened apples.
Spiced Baked Oatmeal: Add 1/4 tsp ground ginger or cardamom for extra warmth.
Berry Baked Oatmeal: Replace the apple with 1 cup mixed berries (fresh or frozen).
Nut-Free Baked Oatmeal: Omit nuts or replace with 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds.
Banana Baked Oatmeal: Replace the apple with 1 mashed banana and 1/2 cup sliced banana.
Chocolate Chip Baked Oatmeal: Add 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips for a sweet twist.

Storage and Serving Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days; reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or microwave until warm.
Freeze baked oatmeal (ungarnished) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat before serving.
Serve warm for the best flavor and soft texture.
Use as a breakfast or brunch dish for casual or festive occasions.
Pair with coffee or orange juice to complement the sweet, spiced flavors.
Present in a white ceramic baking dish or on a white ceramic platter with garnishes for an appetizing, homestyle charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 8 servings (1/2 cup each):

Calories: 220 kcal
Total Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3.5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 35mg
Sodium: 200mg
Total Carbohydrates: 28g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 12g
Protein: 6g
Vitamin A: 6% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 4% Daily Value
Calcium: 10% Daily Value
Iron: 8% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by ingredient brands and substitutions (low-sugar options reduce sugars to ~7g). High in fiber; enjoy with yogurt for balance.

Conclusion

This Baked Oatmeal recipe delivers a hearty, comforting breakfast, perfect for any occasion, transforming simple ingredients into a wholesome classic. Its straightforward preparation and warm presentation make it a favorite. The tender oats and spiced flavors delight every bite. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its crowd-pleasing appeal.