Baked oatmeal

Baked oatmeal is a delightful and nutritious breakfast option that combines the heartiness of oats with the convenience of a make-ahead dish. This versatile recipe allows for various customizations, enabling you to incorporate your favorite fruits, nuts, or spices. Enjoy it warm from the oven or as a quick breakfast throughout the week.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• 2 cups milk of choice (e.g., unsweetened vanilla almond milk)
• ¼ cup maple syrup
• 1 large egg (or 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed as a substitute)
• 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 ripe bananas, sliced, or ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1½ cups chopped pecans, divided, or other mix-ins like berries, nuts, or chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

   • Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.

2. Combine Dry Ingredients:

   • In a large bowl, mix together the rolled oats, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and sea salt.

3. Incorporate Wet Ingredients:

   • To the dry mixture, add the milk, maple syrup, egg (or flaxseed), melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and sliced bananas or applesauce. Stir until well combined.

4. Add Mix-ins:

   • Fold in 1 cup of the chopped pecans or your chosen mix-ins.

5. Transfer to Baking Dish:

   • Pour the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of pecans or additional toppings on top.

6. Bake:

   • Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and the oatmeal is set.

7. Serve:

   • Allow the baked oatmeal to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm, drizzled with extra maple syrup or a dollop of yogurt if desired.

This easy baked oatmeal serves as a wholesome breakfast that can be prepared in advance, making your mornings both nutritious and hassle-free. Its adaptability ensures that you can tailor it to your taste preferences, providing a comforting and satisfying start to your day.