This Baked Blueberry Oatmeal is a warm and cozy dish, packed with juicy blueberries and hearty oats. It’s super easy to make and perfect for breakfast or a snack!
The best part? It fills your kitchen with a sweet, fruity smell while baking. I love enjoying it with a splash of milk or a dollop of yogurt on top—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Rolled oats give this dish a hearty base. If you’re gluten-free, make sure to use certified gluten-free oats to avoid cross-contamination.
Blueberries: Fresh or frozen blueberries work well; both have juicy goodness. If blueberries aren’t available, consider using blackberries or chopped apples as a tasty substitute.
Sweetener: Brown sugar adds a rich flavor, but maple syrup can be a healthier swap. For a sugar-free option, try using mashed bananas or unsweetened applesauce.
Milk: Any milk will work—dairy, almond, coconut, or oat milk. To make it creamier, choose full-fat alternatives.
Butter/Coconut Oil: For a deep flavor, I usually go for butter, but coconut oil is perfect if you want a dairy-free option. You can also use applesauce for a lighter swap.
How Do I Ensure My Oatmeal is Perfectly Baked?
Getting the baking process just right is key to fluffy baked oatmeal. Follow these tips for great results:
- Mix your wet and dry ingredients thoroughly. This ensures even baking and no floury pockets.
- Don’t overmix the batter after adding the blueberries. Gently fold them in to keep some berries intact.
- Check for doneness by gently shaking the dish. If the center wobbles too much, give it few extra minutes.
- Let it cool a bit before serving. This helps it firm up and makes it easier to cut into squares.
Enjoy your warm, comforting baked blueberry oatmeal! It’s perfect for breakfast or as a snack. Pair it with your favorite toppings and make it your own!
Baked Blueberry Oatmeal
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries (plus extra for topping)
- 1/3 cup brown sugar or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1 large egg
- 3 tablespoons melted butter or coconut oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then requires 35 to 40 minutes of baking time. After baking, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. So, overall, you’re looking at about an hour from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s warming up, lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a bit of oil to prevent sticking.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, put in the rolled oats, brown sugar (or maple syrup), baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Mix them together well so that everything is evenly distributed.
3. Whisk Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, melted butter (or coconut oil), and vanilla extract until everything is blended and smooth.
4. Mix Them Together:
Now, pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir thoroughly until everything is well combined. You want to make sure the oats are fully coated!
5. Fold In Blueberries and Nuts:
Gently fold in the blueberries and nuts if you’re using them. Remember to save a few blueberries for the top to make it extra pretty!
6. Spread in Baking Dish:
Transfer the mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it out evenly. Make sure it fills the dish without leaving any gaps.
7. Add Toppings:
Sprinkle the reserved blueberries on top, and if you want, toss on a few more nuts for added crunch and flavor.
8. Bake:
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 35 to 40 minutes. Keep an eye on it—you’re looking for a golden brown top and a set center.
9. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for just a few minutes. This helps it firm up a bit. Then, slice into squares and serve warm!
10. Enjoy!
This baked blueberry oatmeal is delicious on its own, but you can take it up a notch by adding a splash of milk or a dollop of yogurt on top. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
It’s best to stick with rolled oats for this recipe, as instant oats may result in a mushier texture. If you only have instant oats, reduce the baking time by a few minutes and keep an eye on it!
Can I Make Baked Blueberry Oatmeal Vegan?
Absolutely! You can easily make this dish vegan by substituting the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and using plant-based milk and oil instead of butter. It will turn out delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. Just reheat in the microwave or oven until warm, and it will taste great!
Can I Use Other Fruits?
Yes! Besides blueberries, you can try using chopped apples, raspberries, or even banana slices. Just adjust the sweetness based on your fruit choice, especially if you use tart fruits!