Description
This Blueberry Baked Oatmeal is a wholesome and delicious breakfast casserole featuring old fashioned oats, fresh blueberries, and warm spices. Perfect for a make-ahead meal, it can be prepared the night before and baked in the morning for a comforting, healthy start to your day. The baked oatmeal combines the nutty crunch of walnuts with the natural sweetness of maple syrup and applesauce, making it a crowd-pleasing treat that’s both nutritious and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups old fashioned oats
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (OR pecans OR sliced almonds)
- 2 large eggs (see notes for substitute)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (OR brown sugar)
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups blueberries (fresh or frozen)
Instructions
- Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the old fashioned oats, milk, unsweetened applesauce, chopped walnuts, eggs, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Stir everything together thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Layer in a casserole dish: Lightly grease a 7×11 inch rectangular baking dish. Spread half of the oat mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish. Sprinkle approximately three-quarters of the blueberries over the oat layer. Carefully spread the remaining oat mixture on top, smoothing it evenly, then sprinkle the remaining blueberries on top. Optionally, sprinkle extra walnuts for added crunch.
- Chill the dish: Cover the baking dish with a lid or plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator overnight to allow the oats to soak and flavors to meld. If baking immediately, you can skip this chilling step.
- Bake the dish: When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the dish from the refrigerator and bake uncovered for about 30 to 35 minutes, or until the oatmeal is set and the top is golden brown. Remove from oven and let it rest on a wire rack for 5 minutes before slicing and serving warm.
Notes
- You can substitute the eggs with a vegan alternative like flax eggs if desired.
- If in a hurry, you can bake the oatmeal immediately without chilling; just keep in mind the texture might be slightly different.
- Use fresh or frozen blueberries based on availability; either works well.
- Optional: Add extra chopped nuts on top for added texture and flavor.
