Blueberry Baked Oatmeal
Blueberry Baked Oatmeal: A Delicious and Nutritious Start to Your Day
In the search for a healthy, satisfying, and convenient breakfast, blueberry baked oatmeal is an absolute winner.
This wholesome dish combines the heartiness of oats with the antioxidant power of blueberries, creating a meal that's both yummy and healthy.
Whether you're looking to fuel up for a busy day or seeking a comforting treat, blueberry baked oatmeal has got you covered. Give our blueberry baked oatmeal a try today!
What is Blueberry Baked Oatmeal?
Blueberry baked oatmeal is a baked version of classic oatmeal.
Unlike traditional stovetop oatmeal, which is cooked in a pot, baked oatmeal is mixed and then baked in the oven. Baking the oatmeal helps blend and enhance the flavors. It makes it feel more like a treat (everybody loves a "bar").
But the reason we love it most? This is an easy, make-ahead, grab-and-go option for busy mornings!
Why is Blueberry Baked Oatmeal Healthy?
Oatmeal is a terrific addition to virtually any diet. Here are a few compelling reasons why:
Rich in Nutrients: Oats are a powerhouse of nutrients. Oats offer a good source of complex carbohydrates, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals such as manganese, phosphorus, magnesium, and iron. Oatmeal provides you with sustained energy and help keep you full longer.
High in Fiber: Oats are rich in beta-glucan, a type of soluble fiber. This kind of fiber has been shown to reduce cholesterol levels, promote heart health, and support digestive health. Blueberries also add a dose of dietary fiber, further enhancing this benefit. Three cheers for fiber!
Packed with Antioxidants: Blueberries are known to be super high in antioxidants. Their vibrant blue color is in fact due an antioxidant called anthocyanin. Antioxidants are so good for us, especially in our high-stress lives. Antioxidants help combat oxidative stress and inflammation, protect your cells and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Low in Added Sugars: Blueberry baked oatmeal is a low-sugar breakfast option. Blueberries are naturally sweet, and we have added just a touch of maple syrup (or honey). Eating less sugar can help you avoid the energy spikes and crashes associated with high-sugar foods. (Wondering why to limit added sugar? Check out this post.)
Supports Weight Management: The combination of protein, fiber, and healthy fats in blueberry baked oatmeal can help with weight management. This delicious, fiber-rich breakfast helps us feel fuller and stay fuller so we don't overeat.
Naturally Gluten Free: Oats are also naturally gluten-free, so if gluten is a concern, oatmeal is a great option. (Quick note: if you have celiac or increased sensitivity to gluten, make sure to buy oats that are labeled gluten free. While oats are naturally gluten-free, some manufacturers process oats on the same machinery as products that contain gluten. For someone with celiac disease, cross-contamination can be a problem.)
When to Eat Blueberry Baked Oatmeal?
Blueberry baked oatmeal is incredibly versatile! You can eat it any time of day.
Here are a few times that my family loves it:
Breakfast: It's an ideal breakfast option, providing a balanced mix of carbohydrates, protein, and fats to kickstart your day.
Brunch: Serve it at a leisurely weekend brunch with a side of yogurt and fresh fruit. It has the feel of a muffin or more decadent baked good, but will power you through the afternoon (rather than giving you a sugar crash.)
Snack: Enjoy a portion as a mid-morning or afternoon snack to keep your energy levels steady. My kids eat this as a snack weekly.
Dessert: Dress it up with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of honey for a healthier dessert option.
Ingredients for Blueberry Baked Oatmeal
Here are the ingredients you will need:
Oats (quick or traditional)
Unsweetened non-dairy milk like almond
Unsweetened applesauce
Chia seeds
Maple syrup
Cinnamon
Vanilla extract
Frozen blueberries (or other small frozen berries)
How to Make Baked Oatmeal?
Here are the few easy steps needed to make baked oatmeal!
First, preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 9” by 9” baking pan.
Next, in a large bowl, mix all ingredients except frozen berries. Combine thoroughly.
Now add frozen berries and mix again.
Finally, pour the mixture into the baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Note: if your frozen berries produce more water than normal (some berries are much juicier than others), this make take longer than 45 minutes. Baked oatmeal should be solid in the middle like a muffin, rather than watery like stovetop oatmeal.
More Cooking Notes
Leftovers store well in the fridge in an air-tight container for about 3 to 5 days.
Feel free to sub blueberries for another small berry like raspberries or blackberries. (If you prefer to use frozen strawberries, we recommend that you chop them prior to adding. Otherwise, the large frozen strawberries become soft and unappetizing in the finished baked product.)
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