Baked Oatmeal Gluten-Free with Mixed Berries
Baked oatmeal is the ultimate breakfast comfort food that’s both nutritious and delicious. When you add the sweetness of ripe bananas and the burst of flavor from mixed berries, you create a dish that is not only filling but also tantalizingly tasty. This Baked Oatmeal Gluten-Free with Mixed Berries recipe is perfect for busy mornings or lazy weekends alike. It’s easily customizable, great for meal prep, and sure to please the whole family. Let’s dive into the details of this delightful dish!
Why It Deserves a Spot
You might wonder why this Baked Oatmeal Gluten-Free with Mixed Berries deserves a spot on your breakfast table. First and foremost, it’s gluten-free, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions. Second, the combination of vibrant mixed berries and wholesome oats provides a balanced meal filled with fiber, antioxidants, and essential nutrients. Finally, the recipe is incredibly simple to make and can be prepped ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy a warm, comforting breakfast all week long.
Ingredient Checklist
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats (gluten-free)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup real maple syrup
- 1 cup milk (unsweetened almond milk works great)
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or butter, melted and cooled
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 1/2 cups mixed berries (frozen or fresh)
Equipment at a Glance
- Mixing bowls – for combining ingredients.
- 9×9-inch baking dish – ideal for even baking.
- Whisk – to beat the egg and mix the wet ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for precise measurements.
- Spoon or spatula – for mixing the ingredients together.
Baked Oatmeal Gluten-Free with Mixed Berries: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Baked Oatmeal Gluten-Free with Mixed Berries bakes evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Grease your 9×9-inch baking dish with a bit of coconut oil or butter to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, half of the chopped walnuts, baking powder, and ground cinnamon. Stir until well mixed.
Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, almond milk, beaten egg, melted coconut oil or butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until all the oats are well coated. Gently fold in the sliced bananas and mixed berries, being careful not to mash the berries.
Step 6: Bake
Spread the oatmeal mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining chopped walnuts on top for added crunch. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Cut into squares and serve warm. This dish is delightful on its own or topped with additional maple syrup or a dollop of yogurt.
Swap Guide
- Oats: You can substitute with steel-cut oats, but adjust the cooking time as they will take longer to bake.
- Nuts: If you have nut allergies, feel free to use seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds instead.
- Milk: Any plant-based milk, such as oat milk or soy milk, can be used in place of almond milk.
- Sweetener: Honey or agave syrup can replace maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
What Not to Do
- Do not skip the baking powder; it helps the oatmeal rise and gives it a fluffy texture.
- Avoid overmixing the batter once you’ve added the wet ingredients; this can lead to a dense final product.
- Don’t forget to grease your baking dish, or you’ll end up with a stuck mess.
- Be cautious with the baking time; underbaking may result in a soggy center, while overbaking will lead to dry oatmeal.
How to Store & Reheat
Once your Baked Oatmeal Gluten-Free with Mixed Berries has cooled, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in individual containers. To reheat, simply microwave a serving for about 30-60 seconds, or until warmed through. You can also enjoy it cold or at room temperature!
Your Top Questions
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! To make this Baked Oatmeal Gluten-Free with Mixed Berries vegan, simply replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and ensure that the milk used is plant-based.
Can I use different fruits?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite fruits like apples, peaches, or cherries. Just keep in mind that the baking time may vary depending on the moisture content of the fruit you choose.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! This oatmeal is perfect for meal prep. You can bake it on the weekend and enjoy it throughout the week. Just store it in the fridge and reheat as needed.
What can I serve with baked oatmeal?
For a complete breakfast, consider serving your Baked Oatmeal Gluten-Free with Mixed Berries with a side of yogurt, a drizzle of nut butter, or additional fresh fruit. A sprinkle of chia seeds or a dollop of almond cream also adds a delicious touch!
Hungry for More?
If you enjoyed this recipe, you’ll love exploring more wholesome breakfast options. From smoothie bowls to chia pudding, there are countless ways to start your day on a nutritious note.
So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to this delightful Baked Oatmeal Gluten-Free with Mixed Berries. It’s not just a breakfast; it’s a warm hug in a bowl!
Baked Oatmeal Gluten-Free with Mixed Berries
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for even baking.
- Step 2: Grease your 9x9-inch baking dish with coconut oil or butter.
- Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, half of the chopped walnuts, baking powder, and ground cinnamon. Stir until well mixed.
- Step 4: In another bowl, whisk together maple syrup, almond milk, beaten egg, melted coconut oil or butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Step 5: Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until all oats are well coated. Gently fold in sliced bananas and mixed berries.
- Step 6: Spread the oatmeal mixture in the baking dish. Sprinkle remaining walnuts on top. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.
- Step 7: Let cool for a few minutes, cut into squares, and serve warm.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.
- For longer storage, freeze portions in individual containers.
- To reheat, microwave for 30-60 seconds.
