Baked Oatmeal With Strawberries
Highlighted under: Classic Kitchen
I absolutely love starting my day with a hearty breakfast, and this Baked Oatmeal With Strawberries has quickly become one of my favorites. The warm, comforting texture of the oatmeal combined with the sweetness of strawberries creates a deliciously satisfying meal. It's not only easy to make but also a great make-ahead option. Whether you're feeding a crowd or just want something nourishing for yourself, this baked oatmeal hits all the right notes. Trust me, you'll want to bookmark this recipe for those busy mornings!
When I first came across the idea of baked oatmeal, I was skeptical. However, after giving it a try, I’m thrilled to say that I was blown away by the deliciousness! I experimented with various fruits, but using fresh strawberries really elevated the dish. The vibrant flavor and juicy texture of the strawberries meld beautifully with the warm spices and oats.
One of my favorite aspects of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste – swap out the strawberries for blueberries or apple slices if you fancy something different. That's the beauty of baked oatmeal; it’s utterly forgiving and allows you to use whatever fruits you have on hand!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Warm, comforting feels of a classic oatmeal dish.
- Deliciously sweet with the natural flavor of fresh strawberries.
- Easily adaptable for various fruits and dietary preferences.
Unlocking the Potential of Oats
The heart of this Baked Oatmeal lies in rolled oats, which are not only nutritious but also provide a satisfying, chewy texture when baked. They absorb moisture well, helping to keep the dish moist while adding a hearty base. For a creamier consistency, consider soaking the oats in the almond milk for 10-15 minutes before mixing with the other ingredients; this practice can enhance the final texture and flavor.
Using rolled oats rather than instant oats is crucial in this recipe. Instant oats tend to become mushy and may not hold their shape during baking. If you’re in a pinch, steel-cut oats can also work, but they will require a longer baking time. Just be sure to adjust liquid levels as they absorb moisture differently compared to rolled oats.
Strawberry Sweetness
Fresh strawberries add a natural sweetness and vibrant color to the Baked Oatmeal. Look for ripe, fragrant strawberries for the best flavor. They should be hulled and sliced right before use to maintain their freshness. If fresh strawberries aren't available, frozen strawberries can be a convenient substitute, but be sure to thaw and drain them first to prevent excess moisture in the dish.
For a twist on the classic recipe, feel free to experiment with other fruits. Blueberries or diced apples can also be delicious additions, offering their own unique flavor profile. If you prefer a hint of tartness, consider adding a handful of raspberries or blackberries into the mix; adjusting the sugar slightly can balance their acidity.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
One of the best features of this recipe is its versatility for meal prep. You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Simply mix all ingredients together and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, pour it into a greased baking dish and bake it fresh! This can save you precious time on busy mornings without sacrificing flavor.
Leftover Baked Oatmeal can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds, or until heated through. For a cozy breakfast, add a splash of milk or water while reheating to restore some moisture, and top with fresh strawberries or a drizzle of honey just before serving.
Ingredients for Baked Oatmeal With Strawberries
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 2 cups almond milk (or any milk of choice)
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
Instructions
Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8x8-inch baking dish with a little oil or non-stick spray.
Mix dry ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together the rolled oats, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
Combine wet ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the almond milk, melted coconut oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Combine and add strawberries
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until combined. Gently fold in the sliced strawberries.
Bake
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for about 30 minutes or until golden brown on top.
Serve
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm, and feel free to top it with more fresh strawberries or a drizzle of syrup!
Pro Tips
- For a vegan version, substitute eggs with flaxseed meal and use plant-based milk. You can also experiment with spices like nutmeg for added flavor!
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If your Baked Oatmeal turns out denser than expected, it may be due to the type of oats used or not mixing sufficiently to incorporate air. Be sure to whisk the wet ingredients well and gently fold in the strawberries to maintain a light texture. If you’re using a different type of milk, ensure it’s not overly thick, as this can also affect the final consistency.
Burnt edges are another common issue. To avoid this, check the dish about 5 minutes before the recommended baking time. If you notice the edges browning too quickly, you can cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil to shield them from direct heat while allowing the center to finish cooking.
Serving Suggestions
To enhance the flavor profile, consider serving your Baked Oatmeal with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of maple syrup. The creaminess of the yogurt can balance the sweetness of the strawberries, making each bite even more enjoyable. For a bit of crunch, top it off with some chopped nuts or granola just before serving.
Another delightful way to enjoy this dish is by pairing it with a side of scrambled eggs for a balanced meal. The protein from the eggs complements the carbohydrates in the oatmeal, making it a well-rounded breakfast that will keep you full throughout the morning.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. However, make sure to thaw and drain them to prevent excess moisture in the dish.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can reheat them in the microwave.
→ Can I make this oatmeal ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the mixture the night before and bake it in the morning for a quick and easy breakfast.
→ What can I substitute for coconut oil?
You can use butter or any other neutral oil if you don’t have coconut oil on hand.
Baked Oatmeal With Strawberries
I absolutely love starting my day with a hearty breakfast, and this Baked Oatmeal With Strawberries has quickly become one of my favorites. The warm, comforting texture of the oatmeal combined with the sweetness of strawberries creates a deliciously satisfying meal. It's not only easy to make but also a great make-ahead option. Whether you're feeding a crowd or just want something nourishing for yourself, this baked oatmeal hits all the right notes. Trust me, you'll want to bookmark this recipe for those busy mornings!
Created by: Vanessa Whitlock
Recipe Type: Classic Kitchen
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 2 cups almond milk (or any milk of choice)
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8x8-inch baking dish with a little oil or non-stick spray.
In a large bowl, mix together the rolled oats, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
In another bowl, whisk together the almond milk, melted coconut oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until combined. Gently fold in the sliced strawberries.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for about 30 minutes or until golden brown on top.
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm, and feel free to top it with more fresh strawberries or a drizzle of syrup!
Extra Tips
- For a vegan version, substitute eggs with flaxseed meal and use plant-based milk. You can also experiment with spices like nutmeg for added flavor!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 210mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 15g
- Protein: 6g