Healthy Baked Oatmeal
Golden, baked oatmeal with tender cranberries and a hint of cinnamon, perfect for a hearty, fiber-rich breakfast or brunch.
Equipment
- 1 9x13 inch baking dish
- 1 Large Mixing Bowl
- 1 Measuring Cups and Spoons
- 1 Whisk
- 1 spatula
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 3 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup brown sugar adjust to taste
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
- Wet Ingredients:
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- ½ cup melted butter
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Add-Ins:
- ¾ cup dried cranberries or substitute with other fruits like blueberries, apples, or peaches
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking. While the oven warms, gather all your ingredients and prepare your 9x13-inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with butter or nonstick spray. Proper oven temperature and a greased dish are essential to prevent sticking and achieve a golden, crispy top.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the rolled oats, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Use a whisk or spoon to stir these ingredients together until fully blended, ensuring that the spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the oats. This step creates a balanced flavor base for the baked oatmeal.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs lightly, then add milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk the wet mixture until fully combined and smooth, making sure the eggs are fully incorporated for a creamy, cohesive texture when baked.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir gently until all components are fully incorporated. Fold in the dried cranberries (or your chosen fruit), ensuring an even distribution throughout the oatmeal batter for bursts of flavor in every bite.
- Spread Batter into Baking Dish: Transfer the combined oatmeal mixture into the prepared 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Smooth the top slightly so that it bakes uniformly, which helps achieve a consistent golden color and even cooking throughout the dish.
- Bake the Oatmeal: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 40 minutes, or until the top turns a light golden brown and the edges are set. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick or knife in the center; it should come out mostly clean, indicating the oatmeal is fully cooked but still moist.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the baked oatmeal from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes to firm up slightly, making it easier to slice. Serve warm, optionally topped with a splash of milk or yogurt, and enjoy a comforting, fiber-rich breakfast that is satisfying and wholesome.
Notes
- Press the oats and spices together thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors throughout the oatmeal.
- Adjust the sweetness by modifying the amount of brown sugar or using alternatives like maple syrup or coconut sugar.
- Feel free to swap cranberries with other dried or fresh fruits, such as blueberries, apples, peaches, or raisins, depending on seasonal availability.
- Use a 9x13-inch baking dish to ensure even baking; a smaller or larger dish may affect cooking time.
- Serve warm for the best texture and flavor; topping with a splash of milk or yogurt enhances creaminess.
- Leftovers can be reheated in the oven or microwave, making this a convenient option for meal prep.
