There’s something incredibly satisfying about starting your day with a warm, hearty breakfast. Baked oats are not just a delightful way to fuel your morning, but they also offer a wealth of nutritional benefits that can kick your day off right. This dish combines the wholesome goodness of oats with the natural sweetness of bananas and blueberries, making it a perfect choice for both taste and health.
Why We Love This Baked Oats Recipe
One of the best things about baked oats is how versatile they are. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a nourishing meal that satisfies your hunger while delighting your taste buds. If you’re someone who craves something warm and sweet in the morning, this recipe can be customized to suit your preferences. Whether you enjoy it plain, or with a variety of toppings, baked oats provide a solid base that you can personalize however you’d like. Plus, they are an excellent way to use up those ripe bananas lying around your kitchen!
Additionally, baked oats are incredibly easy to make. In just a few steps and with minimal preparation, you’ll have a delicious breakfast ready to go. Not to mention, they can be made ahead of time, making hectic mornings much smoother. The combination of oats, banana, and protein powder not only keeps you full longer, but also provides a steady release of energy throughout the day.
Ingredients for Baked Oats
To prepare beautifully baked oats, you’ll need the following ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect balance of texture and flavor.
- 1 small banana (or 1/2 large banana)
- 1 scoop protein powder (preferably vegan vanilla)
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 150 ml milk (almond milk is recommended for a nutty flavor)
- 55 g porridge oats (opt for gluten-free if needed)
- 50 g fresh blueberries (optional, but highly recommended for added flavor)
How to Make Baked Oats
Making baked oats is a straightforward process that even the busiest of you can handle. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create this delicious breakfast:
Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (or 356°F). If you’re using an air fryer, set it to 200°C (390°F).
Prepare the Banana: Take your banana and place it in a bowl. Using a fork, mash it thoroughly until it reaches a smooth consistency.
Mix Ingredients: Add the protein powder, baking powder, and milk to the mashed banana. Stir until well combined. Once that’s done, add in the oats and mix everything together until you see no dry patches.
Add Blueberries: Gently fold in two-thirds of the fresh blueberries. This will evenly distribute the berries throughout your mixture for a delightful burst of flavor in every bite.
Transfer to Ramekin: Pour the mixture into an ovenproof ramekin. Make sure to level it out.
Top with Blueberries: Sprinkle the remaining blueberries on top of the mixture for an enticing presentation.
Bake: Place the ramekin in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes. If you’re using an air fryer, check for doneness after 15-18 minutes.
Cool and Serve: Once baked, allow it to cool for a few minutes. This allows the dish to set and makes it easier to enjoy.
Making baked oats is not only quick but incredibly rewarding, and the delicious aroma wafting through your kitchen while they bake is just the cherry on top!
How to Serve Baked Oats
Once your baked oats are finally out of the oven, the serving options are endless. You can enjoy them warm right out of the ramekin, or transfer them to a plate for a more formal presentation. Here are some delightful ways to serve your baked oats:
- Fresh Fruit: Top with additional fruits like sliced strawberries, or even a few more blueberries for an eye-catching dish.
- Nut Butter: A drizzle of almond or peanut butter adds a creamy richness and enhances the protein content, making your meal even more satisfying.
- Maple Syrup: If you like your baked oats on the sweeter side, a splash of warm maple syrup can elevate the flavors.
- Yogurt: Adding a dollop of Greek yogurt on top can introduce a lovely creaminess and a tangy contrast to the sweet oats.
No matter how you choose to serve them, baked oats are a delicious way to enjoy a wholesome breakfast!
Expert Tips for Perfecting Baked Oats
To ensure your baked oats turn out perfectly every time, here are some expert tips to keep in mind:
Banana Ripe: Opt for a well-ripened banana. This will ensure your baked oats are naturally sweet and moist.
Even Mixing: Make sure all your ingredients are evenly mixed. This ensures that the flavors meld together nicely and every bite is equally delicious.
Monitor Bake Time: Keep an eye on your baked oats towards the end of the baking time. Ovens can vary, and you want to make sure your oats aren’t overbaked.
Experiment: Feel free to adjust the ingredients. If you don’t have almond milk, regular milk will do just fine. The same goes for the protein powder; use your preferred flavor!
Add Some Crunch: Consider adding a handful of nuts or seeds on top before baking for an added crunch.
These tips will undoubtedly enhance your baked oats experience and ensure you have a delightful dish every time.
How to Store Baked Oats
If you find yourself with leftovers (though that might be a challenge), you can easily store your baked oats for later. Here’s how to do it:
Refrigeration: Place any leftover baked oats in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They can last for about 2-3 days.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your stored baked oats, simply reheat them in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds, or until warmed through.
If you’re planning to make them ahead of time, you can also prepare the mixture and store it in the fridge, then bake it fresh whenever you’re ready.
Variations of Baked Oats
While this recipe is delightful on its own, you might want to switch things up every now and then. Fortunately, there are countless variations you can try to keep your baked oats exciting:
Chocolate Lovers: Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to your mixture for a rich chocolate flavor. Top with chocolate chips for added indulgence.
Nutty and Fruity: Incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds and mix in different fruits such as apples or peaches for a more diverse flavor profile.
Spiced Oats: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced aroma that is perfect for chilly mornings.
Savory Version: If you’re feeling adventurous, try a savory take! Omit the banana and sweet ingredients, and incorporate diced vegetables, a soft cheese, or some herbs.
Exploring these variations keeps your breakfast routine lively and interesting.
Frequently Asked Questions about Baked Oats
What are baked oats?
Baked oats are a delicious and nutritious breakfast option made with rolled oats, mashed bananas, and other ingredients like milk and protein powder, all baked until golden and comforting.
Can I use other milk alternatives for baked oats?
Yes! While almond milk is recommended, you can use any milk alternative you prefer, such as oat milk, soy milk, or even regular cow’s milk, depending on your dietary preferences.
How do I make baked oats vegan?
To keep baked oats vegan, simply choose a plant-based protein powder and a milk alternative like almond, oat, or soy milk.
Can I meal prep baked oats?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture ahead of time and bake it fresh for breakfast. Alternatively, bake in advance and store leftovers in the fridge for quick reheating.
Are baked oats gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free oats, baked oats can easily be made gluten-free. Just be mindful of cross-contamination while shopping!
Baked Oats
Ingredients
- 1 small banana (or 1/2 large banana)
- 1 scoop protein powder (preferably vegan vanilla)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 150 ml milk (almond milk recommended)
- 55 g porridge oats (gluten-free if needed)
- 50 g fresh blueberries (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F) or air fryer to 200°C (390°F).
- Mash the banana in a bowl until smooth.
- Add protein powder, baking powder, and milk to the mashed banana. Mix until well combined.
- Add the oats and mix until no dry patches remain.
- Fold in two-thirds of the blueberries.
- Pour the mixture into an ovenproof ramekin and level it out.
- Sprinkle the remaining blueberries on top.
- Bake for about 30 minutes (15-18 minutes in an air fryer).
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.
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