Alright, mamas! Let’s chat about a total game-changer for busy mornings (or any time, really!): an easy baked oats recipe. This isn’t just breakfast; it’s a hug in a dish that’ll keep your family full and happy. I know how crazy life gets, and this is one of those sanity-saving meals I rely on. This recipe has been with me through thick and thin, and believe me, there’s been a lot of thin!
I remember the first time I tried making baked oats. My youngest was going through a phase where everything I made was “yucky.” I was desperate for something healthy and filling that she would actually eat. I stumbled upon a basic baked oats recipe, tweaked it a bit (okay, a lot!), and crossed my fingers. The result? Silence. Complete, blissful silence… except for the sound of spoons scraping against the baking dish. It was a win! This easy baked oats recipe has evolved over time, and now it’s a customizable masterpiece that pleases even the pickiest eaters.
This easy baked oats recipe brings so much comfort because it’s warm, versatile, and feels like a treat without being overly sugary. My goal is always to find simple comfort food solutions for my family, and this one definitely fits the bill. So, fellow busy moms, if you’re looking for a breakfast (or snack, or even dessert!) that’s both easy and comforting, grab your apron, and let’s get baking! This easy baked oats recipe is about to become your new best friend.
INGREDIENTS You’ll Need:
- 3 cups rolled oats (not instant)
- 2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1/2 cup maple syrup (or honey)
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil (or butter)
- 2 large eggs (or flax eggs for vegan)
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup of your favorite add-ins (berries, chocolate chips, nuts, etc.)
Trust me, this easy baked oats recipe ingredient list is simple because busy moms need comfort without complexity! You can find these simple ingredients at your regular grocery store. No worries if you don’t have coconut oil – I use melted butter for extra comfort in my easy baked oats recipe.
Here’s a comfort hack: I often buy frozen berries in bulk because they are budget-friendly and perfect for baking. This easy baked oats recipe proves delicious doesn’t mean expensive. Sometimes I even throw in leftover mashed bananas that are starting to brown; it adds natural sweetness and moisture. My family gets extra comfort when I add a handful of chocolate chips. Who am I to deny them that?
A little tip that helps me on busy weeknights: I prep all my dry ingredients for this easy baked oats recipe in a big container on Sunday so it’s ready to go for a quick and easy bake.
Let’s Make it Happen!
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease or line a 9×13 inch baking dish. I usually just spray it with cooking spray because, let’s be honest, who has time for parchment paper?
- In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, milk, maple syrup (or honey), melted coconut oil (or butter), eggs (or flax eggs), baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until everything is well combined. This easy baked oats recipe is super forgiving, so don’t stress about getting it perfect.
- Gently fold in your favorite add-ins. I love using a mix of blueberries and raspberries, but chocolate chips or chopped nuts are also amazing. Remember that one time my daughter asked if we could add gummy worms? That’s a story for another time, but safe to say that the gummy worms didn’t make it. This easy baked oats recipe allows for all sorts of creations.
- Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. In my busy kitchen, this comforting easy baked oats recipe usually takes about 30-40 minutes to bake.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Your easy baked oats recipe should smell amazing by now!
- Let it cool slightly before serving. This is the hardest part because everyone will be clamoring for a piece!
Here’s where I used to struggle with my easy baked oats recipe – I would overbake it! Learn from my experience: start checking for doneness around 30 minutes. If it’s still a little wobbly in the center, that’s okay; it will continue to set as it cools. Don’t worry if your easy baked oats recipe looks a little uneven; it’s supposed to! While your easy baked oats recipe is cooking, take a moment to appreciate creating comfort for your family! Maybe sneak in a quick cup of coffee for yourself!
How We Love to Eat This!
The kids devour this comforting easy baked oats recipe when I serve it with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of extra maple syrup. Sometimes, I’ll even add a side of scrambled eggs or sausage for a more complete breakfast. I like to think that this easy baked oats recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when we need comfort food fast!
This easy baked oats recipe is perfect for a cozy weekend brunch, a quick after-school snack, or even a simple dessert. I’ve even been known to pack a slice in my kids’ lunchboxes! Presentation-wise, I like to sprinkle a few extra berries on top before serving to make it look extra appealing. Leftovers (if there are any!) can be stored in the fridge for up to three days and reheated in the microwave or oven.
One time, I made this easy baked oats recipe with chopped apples and walnuts for Thanksgiving brunch, and everyone raved about it! So many variations can be made and enjoyed.
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
Is this easy baked oats recipe really filling enough for growing kids?
Absolutely! The oats, eggs (or flax eggs), and milk provide plenty of fiber and protein to keep them satisfied until lunchtime. My kids are always asking for seconds!
What if my picky eater won’t try this easy baked oats recipe?
Don’t give up! Start by adding familiar flavors they already love, like chocolate chips or peanut butter. You can also try serving it with a side of fruit or yogurt they enjoy. Sometimes, just calling it “oatmeal cake” can do the trick!
Can I meal prep this easy baked oats recipe for busy weeks ahead?
Definitely! Baked oats are perfect for meal prepping. You can bake the whole dish on Sunday and portion it out into individual containers for the week. Reheat it in the microwave or oven for a quick and easy breakfast.
Can I make this vegan?
Yes! Just substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use non-dairy milk.
Is this gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free oats!
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
I don’t recommend it. Quick oats will result in a mushier texture. Rolled oats hold their shape better and give the baked oats a heartier texture.
What other add-ins can I use?
The possibilities are endless! Some of my favorites include chopped bananas, shredded coconut, raisins, dried cranberries, peanut butter, and chopped nuts.
Final Thoughts:
This easy baked oats recipe is more than just a recipe; it’s a way to bring comfort and connection to your family’s table. It supports my family’s comfort food goals because it’s simple, satisfying, and customizable to everyone’s tastes.
Here are a few easy baked oats recipe Comfort Hacks I’ve learned over the years:
- Make it ahead: Prep the mixture the night before and bake it in the morning for an even quicker breakfast.
- Double the batch: Baked oats freeze beautifully, so double the recipe and freeze half for later.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment: Try different add-ins and flavor combinations to find your family’s favorites.
Some of our family-tested easy baked oats recipe variations include:
- Apple Cinnamon: Add chopped apples and extra cinnamon.
- Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip: Swirl in peanut butter and add chocolate chips.
- Banana Nut: Add mashed bananas and chopped walnuts.
My youngest loves the chocolate chip version, while my oldest prefers the apple cinnamon. My husband is partial to the banana nut. I hope your family loves this easy baked oats recipe as much as mine does. Remember, you got this mama! And if not, it’s ok, we can try again another time!
I hope you find this easy baked oats recipe brings comfort to your family. Get creative, have fun, and make it your own!
Check out more recipes for simple comfort food ideas for busy families! I know this comforting easy baked oats recipe reminds me of another family favorite, chicken corn chowder, especially on a cold day! If your kids love this hearty recipe, they’ll go crazy for our hashbrown casserole recipe. Here are some other awesome recipes to enjoy: cheesy hamburger potato soup! Looking to add some excitement? Check out 6-Ingredient Vegan Baked Oatmeal. Get creative with Baked Blueberry Oatmeal (Gluten-Free, Vegan-Friendly). Or try Blueberry Baked Oatmeal (Gluten-Free + Vegan!)!
easy baked oats recipe
Enjoy a warm and comforting breakfast with this easy baked oats recipe. It’s a simple and delicious way to start your day, packed with wholesome ingredients and customizable to your liking.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: 1/4 cup berries, chocolate chips, or nuts
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease or line a baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, milk, egg, maple syrup, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- If using, sprinkle berries, chocolate chips, or nuts over the top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and set.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
For a richer flavor, add a tablespoon of nut butter to the batter. Serve warm with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of maple syrup.