Blueberry Apple & Walnut Baked Oatmeal Recipe

Introduction

Weekends in our home are synonymous with slow mornings and the aroma of something delicious baking in the oven. Pancakes, waffles, and French toast have all had their moments, but lately, there’s one breakfast dish that has truly captured our hearts and become a weekend staple: Blueberry Apple & Walnut Baked Oatmeal. This isn’t your grandma’s mushy oatmeal; this is a revelation. Imagine the comforting warmth of cinnamon-spiced oats, studded with juicy blueberries and sweet, tender apples, all topped with the satisfying crunch of toasted walnuts. It’s hearty enough to fuel our busy mornings, yet it’s so subtly sweet and flavorful that it almost feels like a guilt-free dessert. My kids, who are usually oatmeal skeptics, devour this baked version with gusto. Even my husband, a self-proclaimed savory breakfast enthusiast, has been converted. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to throw together, making it perfect for busy weekdays too, or even better, preparing ahead for a grab-and-go breakfast throughout the week. If you’re looking for a wholesome, flavorful, and utterly satisfying breakfast that will please everyone at your table, look no further than this Blueberry Apple & Walnut Baked Oatmeal. Trust me, your mornings will never be the same!

Ingredients: The Building Blocks of Deliciousness

This recipe for Blueberry Apple & Walnut Baked Oatmeal is wonderfully simple, relying on wholesome and readily available ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and nutrition. Let’s break down each ingredient and explore why it’s essential for this delightful breakfast bake:

• 1 cup Walnuts, divided use: Walnuts are the star of the show when it comes to adding texture and a nutty depth of flavor. We use them in two ways: finely chopped and mixed into the oatmeal base, and roughly chopped and scattered on top. Finely chopping some of the walnuts ensures that their flavor permeates every bite, while the larger pieces on top provide a delightful crunch and visual appeal. Beyond taste and texture, walnuts are nutritional powerhouses. They are packed with healthy fats, particularly omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for their heart-health benefits. They also contribute protein and fiber, making this baked oatmeal even more satisfying and keeping you feeling full for longer. If you’re not a fan of walnuts, you could substitute pecans or almonds for a slightly different but equally delicious nutty flavor. For those with nut allergies, consider using toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for a similar textural crunch.
• 2 cups Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: The heart and soul of this baked oatmeal is undoubtedly the old-fashioned rolled oats. Unlike instant oats, rolled oats retain their texture and provide a wonderfully chewy bite when baked. They also release their starch more slowly, resulting in a creamy yet not mushy consistency. Old-fashioned rolled oats are also a fantastic source of fiber, particularly soluble fiber called beta-glucan, which is known to help lower cholesterol levels and regulate blood sugar. They are a complex carbohydrate, providing sustained energy release throughout the morning, preventing those mid-morning crashes. It’s crucial to use old-fashioned rolled oats for this recipe. Quick-cooking oats will become too mushy, and steel-cut oats require a longer cooking time and won’t achieve the desired texture in this baked oatmeal. Look for certified gluten-free rolled oats if you need to ensure this recipe is gluten-free.
• 1 teaspoon Baking Powder: Baking powder is the secret ingredient that gives this baked oatmeal a slightly lighter and more airy texture. It acts as a leavening agent, helping the oatmeal to rise just a bit in the oven and preventing it from becoming too dense or heavy. Make sure your baking powder is fresh for optimal results. If you don’t have baking powder, you can omit it, but the texture of the baked oatmeal will be slightly denser.
• 1 teaspoon Cinnamon plus extra for garnish: Cinnamon is the warm, comforting spice that ties all the flavors together in this baked oatmeal. It complements the sweetness of the apples and blueberries beautifully and enhances the nutty notes of the walnuts. Beyond its wonderful flavor, cinnamon is also known for its potential health benefits, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. We use a full teaspoon in the oat mixture to infuse the entire dish with cinnamon goodness, and then a sprinkle more on top for a final touch of aroma and visual appeal. For a slightly different flavor profile, you could experiment with other warm spices like nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom, either alone or in combination with cinnamon.
• ¼ teaspoon Kosher Salt: Salt might seem like an unexpected ingredient in a sweet breakfast dish, but it is absolutely essential for balancing the flavors. A pinch of salt enhances the sweetness and brings out the nuances of all the other ingredients, preventing the oatmeal from tasting flat or bland. Kosher salt is preferred by many cooks because of its clean, pure flavor, but regular table salt will also work. Just be sure to use the correct measurement, as too much salt can negatively impact the taste.
• 1 ¼ cups Milk, any type (I used 2%): Milk provides the liquid base for our baked oatmeal, binding the dry ingredients together and creating a creamy texture. The recipe is incredibly versatile when it comes to milk choices. You can use any type of milk you prefer: dairy milk (such as 2%, whole milk, or skim milk), or plant-based milk alternatives like almond milk, soy milk, oat milk, or coconut milk. Each type of milk will impart a slightly different flavor and richness. 2% milk offers a good balance of creaminess and lightness. For a richer and more decadent baked oatmeal, you can use whole milk or even a combination of milk and a splash of cream or half-and-half. For a vegan version, plant-based milks work wonderfully and often add a subtle sweetness of their own. Oat milk, in particular, complements the oat base of the recipe beautifully.
• ½ cup Plain Low Fat Greek Yogurt: Greek yogurt is a secret weapon in this recipe, adding moisture, tanginess, and a boost of protein. It contributes to the creamy texture of the baked oatmeal without making it overly heavy. The slight tanginess of Greek yogurt balances the sweetness of the maple syrup and fruit, creating a more complex and nuanced flavor profile. Using low-fat Greek yogurt keeps the dish relatively light, but you can also use full-fat Greek yogurt for an even richer texture. If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can substitute plain yogurt, sour cream, or even unsweetened applesauce, although these substitutions will slightly alter the flavor and texture. For a dairy-free option, you can use a plant-based yogurt alternative, such as coconut yogurt or soy yogurt, ensuring it is plain and unsweetened.
• 1 Large Egg: The egg acts as a binder in this baked oatmeal, helping to hold all the ingredients together and creating a cohesive structure. It also adds richness and a slight custardy texture to the baked oatmeal. Use a large egg for the best results. If you need to make this recipe vegan, you can try using a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water, let sit for 5 minutes to thicken) as a substitute, although it may slightly alter the texture.
• ¼ cup Maple Syrup or other sweetener of your choice: Maple syrup provides natural sweetness and a lovely caramel-like flavor to the baked oatmeal. It’s a healthier alternative to refined sugar and adds a touch of sophistication to the dish. Use pure maple syrup for the best flavor. If you don’t have maple syrup, you can substitute other liquid sweeteners like honey, agave nectar, or brown rice syrup. For a less sweet version, you can reduce the amount of sweetener or use a sugar-free alternative like stevia or erythritol, but be mindful that sugar substitutes can sometimes alter the texture. You can also use brown sugar or granulated sugar if you prefer, but liquid sweeteners tend to blend into the batter more seamlessly.
• 2 tablespoons Melted Coconut Oil or Unsalted Butter: Melted coconut oil or unsalted butter adds richness, moisture, and a subtle flavor to the baked oatmeal. Coconut oil lends a delicate coconut aroma, while butter provides a classic buttery taste. Both contribute to the tender texture and prevent the oatmeal from drying out during baking. If using coconut oil, ensure it is melted but not hot. If using butter, melt it and let it cool slightly before adding it to the wet ingredients. For a vegan version, coconut oil is an excellent choice. You can also use other neutral-flavored oils like melted vegan butter sticks or avocado oil.
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract: Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile of the baked oatmeal, adding a warm, aromatic note that complements the other ingredients. Use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor. Imitation vanilla extract can also be used, but it will not have the same depth of flavor. You can also experiment with other extracts like almond extract or maple extract for different flavor variations.
• 1 ½ cups Blueberries, divided use: Blueberries are bursting with juicy sweetness and vibrant color, adding a delightful fruity element to the baked oatmeal. We use them in two ways: some are layered at the bottom of the baking dish, and the rest are scattered on top. Layering some blueberries at the bottom allows them to soften and become jammy during baking, while the blueberries on top retain a bit more of their fresh, plump texture. Fresh or frozen blueberries can be used. If using frozen blueberries, there is no need to thaw them first; simply add them directly to the recipe. Blueberries are also packed with antioxidants and vitamins, making this breakfast even more nutritious. You can substitute other berries like raspberries, blackberries, or chopped strawberries if you prefer.
• 1 ½ cups Finely chopped, peeled apple, divided use: Apples add a lovely sweetness, a slightly tart note, and a tender texture to the baked oatmeal. We use them similarly to the blueberries, layering some at the bottom and scattering the rest on top. Choose apples that hold their shape well when baked, such as Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala apples. Peeling the apples ensures a smoother texture in the baked oatmeal. Finely chopping the apples allows them to cook through evenly and distribute throughout the dish. Like blueberries, apples are also a good source of fiber and vitamins. You can experiment with different apple varieties for slightly different flavor profiles. For a warmer, spiced apple flavor, you can toss the chopped apples with a pinch of cinnamon before adding them to the baking dish.

This carefully selected combination of ingredients creates a Blueberry Apple & Walnut Baked Oatmeal that is not only incredibly delicious but also packed with wholesome goodness, making it the perfect way to start your day.

Instructions: Baking Your Way to Breakfast Bliss

Creating this Blueberry Apple & Walnut Baked Oatmeal is surprisingly simple and straightforward. Follow these step-by-step instructions to bake your way to breakfast bliss:

1. Preheat Oven to 325°F (160°C): Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). This lower baking temperature ensures that the oatmeal cooks through evenly without drying out and allows the fruits to soften beautifully. Make sure your oven is properly preheated before you place the baking dish inside for optimal baking results.
2. Prepare Baking Dish: Spray an 8 x 8-inch baking dish with cooking spray. This prevents the baked oatmeal from sticking to the dish and makes serving and cleanup much easier. You can use any type of cooking spray you prefer, such as olive oil spray, coconut oil spray, or non-stick cooking spray. Alternatively, you can lightly grease the baking dish with butter or coconut oil. An 8×8 inch baking dish is the ideal size for this recipe, ensuring the oatmeal is thick and hearty. If you use a larger dish, the oatmeal will be thinner and may cook faster.
3. Prepare Dry Ingredients: Finely chop ½ cup of walnuts. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the finely chopped walnuts, 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon kosher salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are well combined. This ensures that the baking powder and spices are evenly distributed throughout the oat mixture. Using finely chopped walnuts in the base infuses the oatmeal with nutty flavor from within.
4. Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a separate, larger bowl, whisk together 1 ¼ cups milk (any type), ½ cup plain low-fat Greek yogurt, 1 large egg, ¼ cup maple syrup, 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil (or unsalted butter), and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Whisk until all the wet ingredients are thoroughly combined and smooth. This creates a creamy and flavorful liquid mixture that will bind the dry ingredients and cook the oatmeal to perfection. Ensure the melted coconut oil or butter is not too hot when you add it to the other wet ingredients to prevent the egg from cooking.
5. Layer Fruits and Oats in Baking Dish: Arrange 1 cup of blueberries and 1 cup of finely chopped, peeled apple in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spread them evenly across the bottom of the dish. These fruits at the bottom will become soft and jammy as they bake, creating a delicious layer of flavor and moisture.
6. Add Oat Mixture and Liquid: Scatter the oat mixture evenly on top of the fruit layer in the baking dish. Pour the milk mixture over the oat mixture. Use a spoon or spatula to gently press down on the oat mixture, ensuring that all of the dry ingredients are submerged in the liquid. This is important for the oats to properly absorb the liquid and cook through evenly.
7. Top with Remaining Ingredients: Roughly chop the remaining ½ cup of walnuts. Scatter the roughly chopped walnuts on top of the oatmeal, along with the remaining ½ cup of blueberries and ½ cup of chopped apple. Sprinkle the top generously with extra cinnamon for added flavor and visual appeal. The toppings provide a beautiful finish and add textural contrast with the crunchy walnuts and fresh fruit.
8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the oats are set. To check for doneness, insert a knife or toothpick into the center of the baked oatmeal. It should come out mostly clean, with maybe just a little moistness, but not wet batter. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so start checking for doneness around 40 minutes.
9. Cool and Serve: Let the baked oatmeal cool slightly in the baking dish before serving. This allows it to set up a bit more and makes it easier to slice and serve. Serve warm or at room temperature. It’s delicious served as is, or you can top it with extra milk, Greek yogurt, or a drizzle of maple syrup for added richness and flavor.

Following these simple instructions will reward you with a delicious and comforting Blueberry Apple & Walnut Baked Oatmeal that is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a healthy dessert.

Nutrition Facts: Wholesome Goodness in Every Serving

This Blueberry Apple & Walnut Baked Oatmeal isn’t just delicious; it’s also packed with wholesome nutrients that make it a healthy and satisfying breakfast choice. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving, based on the recipe yielding 8 servings:

• Servings: 8
• Calories: 283 kcal

Please note: These are approximate values and can vary slightly based on the specific brands and types of ingredients you use, as well as portion sizes. For more precise nutritional information, you can use online nutrition calculators and input the specific ingredients you are using.

Key Nutritional Highlights per Serving (Approximate):

• Fiber-Rich: Baked oatmeal is an excellent source of dietary fiber, primarily from the rolled oats, apples, and blueberries. Fiber is essential for digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and promotes feelings of fullness, which can aid in weight management.
• Source of Protein: The Greek yogurt, walnuts, egg, and milk contribute a good amount of protein to each serving. Protein is crucial for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle growth, and keeping you feeling satisfied and energized throughout the morning.
• Healthy Fats: Walnuts and coconut oil (or butter) provide healthy fats, including omega-3 fatty acids from walnuts, which are beneficial for heart health and brain function.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Blueberries and apples are rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and phytonutrients. Milk and yogurt contribute calcium and vitamin D, essential for bone health.
• Complex Carbohydrates: Rolled oats are a complex carbohydrate that provides sustained energy release, preventing energy crashes and keeping you feeling full and focused.
• Lower in Added Sugar: Compared to many commercially prepared breakfast cereals and pastries, this baked oatmeal is relatively low in added sugar, relying primarily on the natural sweetness of maple syrup and fruits.

Why this is a healthy breakfast choice:

• Balanced Macronutrients: This baked oatmeal provides a good balance of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats, making it a nutritionally complete breakfast that will keep you feeling satisfied and energized for hours.
• Whole Food Ingredients: It’s made with whole, unprocessed ingredients like rolled oats, fruits, nuts, and dairy (or plant-based alternatives), providing a wealth of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
• Lower Glycemic Index: The fiber content of oats and fruits helps to slow down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream, resulting in a lower glycemic index compared to refined carbohydrate breakfasts.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your dietary needs and preferences. Use plant-based milk and yogurt for a vegan version, gluten-free oats for a gluten-free option, or adjust the sweetener to your liking.

Enjoy this delicious and nutritious Blueberry Apple & Walnut Baked Oatmeal knowing that you are starting your day with a wholesome and beneficial meal.

Preparation Time: Quick Prep, Satisfying Results

One of the many advantages of this Blueberry Apple & Walnut Baked Oatmeal is its ease of preparation. While it bakes for a bit, the active prep time is minimal, making it perfect for busy mornings or for preparing ahead of time. Here’s a breakdown of the preparation times:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Prep Time Breakdown (Approximately 15 minutes):

• Chopping Walnuts and Apples: 5 minutes
• Mixing Dry Ingredients: 2 minutes
• Mixing Wet Ingredients: 3 minutes
• Layering Ingredients in Baking Dish: 5 minutes

As you can see, the hands-on time is very short. Most of the time is spent baking in the oven, allowing you to attend to other morning tasks or simply relax while the delicious aroma fills your kitchen.

Tips to Speed Up Prep Time:

• Chop Ingredients Ahead: You can chop the walnuts and apples the night before and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
• Measure Dry Ingredients in Advance: Measure out the dry ingredients (oats, baking powder, cinnamon, salt) and combine them in a bowl the night before.
• Use Pre-Chopped Walnuts: If you’re really short on time, you can use pre-chopped walnuts, although freshly chopped walnuts will have a slightly fresher flavor.

Make-Ahead Options:

• Prepare the Entire Dish Ahead: You can assemble the entire baked oatmeal in the baking dish the night before, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and store it in the refrigerator overnight. In the morning, simply preheat the oven and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if necessary since it will be starting cold.
• Bake Ahead and Reheat: You can bake the entire oatmeal dish ahead of time, let it cool completely, cut it into squares, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

This Blueberry Apple & Walnut Baked Oatmeal is a fantastic option for meal prepping breakfasts for the week. Its quick prep time and make-ahead versatility make it a lifesaver for busy individuals and families who want to enjoy a healthy and delicious breakfast without spending a lot of time in the kitchen in the morning.

How to Serve: Endless Possibilities for Enjoyment

Blueberry Apple & Walnut Baked Oatmeal is delicious on its own, but there are countless ways to enhance your serving experience and customize it to your liking. Here are some serving suggestions and topping ideas to elevate your baked oatmeal enjoyment:

Serving Suggestions:

• Warm or Room Temperature: This baked oatmeal is delicious served warm straight from the oven, allowing you to savor its comforting warmth and soft texture. It’s also equally enjoyable at room temperature, making it a great option for brunch buffets or make-ahead breakfasts.
• As a Breakfast Main Course: Serve a generous square of baked oatmeal as a hearty and satisfying breakfast main course. It’s filling enough to keep you energized until lunchtime.
• Brunch Star: Baked oatmeal is a wonderful addition to a brunch spread. Its make-ahead nature and crowd-pleasing flavor make it an ideal dish for entertaining.
• Healthy Dessert: With its subtle sweetness and comforting flavors, baked oatmeal can also double as a healthy and guilt-free dessert, especially when served warm with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of maple syrup.
• Grab-and-Go Breakfast: Cut the cooled baked oatmeal into squares and store them in airtight containers for a convenient grab-and-go breakfast option throughout the week.

Topping Ideas (Mix and Match to Your Preference):

• Dairy Delights:
  • Milk or Cream: Pour a splash of cold milk or cream over warm baked oatmeal for added moisture and creaminess.
  • Greek Yogurt or Plain Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt or plain yogurt adds a tangy coolness and extra protein.
  • Whipped Cream or Vanilla Ice Cream: For a more decadent treat, top with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, especially when serving as dessert.
• Sweet Sensations:
  • Maple Syrup or Honey: A drizzle of maple syrup or honey enhances the sweetness and adds a touch of natural flavor.
  • Brown Sugar or Cinnamon Sugar: Sprinkle a bit of brown sugar or cinnamon sugar on top for extra sweetness and caramelized flavor.
  • Fruit Compote or Jam: Top with a homemade fruit compote (like blueberry or apple compote) or your favorite jam for added fruity sweetness.
• Nutty Crunch:
  • Toasted Walnuts, Pecans, or Almonds: Sprinkle extra toasted nuts on top for an even more intense nutty flavor and satisfying crunch.
  • Granola: A sprinkle of granola adds texture and sweetness.
  • Nut Butter: A dollop of almond butter, peanut butter, or cashew butter adds richness, protein, and healthy fats.
• Fruity Freshness:
  • Fresh Blueberries, Apples, or Berries: Add extra fresh blueberries, sliced apples, or mixed berries for a burst of fresh fruit flavor and vibrant color.
  • Sliced Bananas or Peaches: Top with sliced bananas or peaches for a different fruit variation.
  • Dried Fruit: Sprinkle with dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped dried apricots for chewy sweetness.
• Spice it Up:
  • Extra Cinnamon or Nutmeg: Dust with extra cinnamon or nutmeg for a warmer spice flavor.
  • Ginger or Cardamom: A sprinkle of ground ginger or cardamom adds a unique and aromatic spice note.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings and find your favorite combinations. The beauty of baked oatmeal is its versatility and how easily it can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy experimenting and discovering new ways to serve and savor this delightful breakfast dish.

Additional Tips for Baked Oatmeal Perfection

To ensure your Blueberry Apple & Walnut Baked Oatmeal turns out perfectly every time, here are five helpful tips and tricks:

1. Don’t Overmix the Batter: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is moistened. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the oats, resulting in a tougher baked oatmeal. A few streaks of flour are okay; they will disappear during baking.
2. Submerge the Oats: After pouring the liquid mixture over the oat mixture in the baking dish, gently press down with a spoon or spatula to ensure that all the dry oats are submerged in the liquid. This is crucial for the oats to properly absorb the liquid and cook through evenly. Dry oats on top may not fully cook and can result in a dry or crunchy top layer.
3. Adjust Sweetness to Your Preference: The recipe calls for ¼ cup of maple syrup, which provides a moderately sweet baked oatmeal. If you prefer a sweeter breakfast, you can increase the maple syrup slightly. Conversely, if you prefer less sweetness, you can reduce the amount of maple syrup or use a less sweet alternative. Taste the wet mixture before pouring it over the oats to check the sweetness level and adjust accordingly.
4. Customize with Different Fruits and Nuts: While this recipe features blueberries, apples, and walnuts, feel free to experiment with other fruits and nuts to create different flavor variations. Consider using:
   • Fruits: Peaches, raspberries, blackberries, strawberries, bananas, pears, cranberries, raisins, chopped dates.
   • Nuts and Seeds: Pecans, almonds, hazelnuts, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, chia seeds, flax seeds.
     You can also add other flavor enhancers like chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or spices like ginger, nutmeg, or cardamom.
5. Prevent Burning on Top: If you notice the top of the baked oatmeal browning too quickly before the center is fully cooked, loosely tent the baking dish with aluminum foil. This will prevent the top from burning while allowing the center to continue baking through. Remove the foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking to allow the top to become golden brown.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to consistently baking delicious and perfectly textured Blueberry Apple & Walnut Baked Oatmeal that your family will love.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Blueberry Apple & Walnut Baked Oatmeal

Have questions about making the perfect Blueberry Apple & Walnut Baked Oatmeal? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:

Q1: Can I use quick-cooking oats instead of old-fashioned rolled oats?

A: It’s not recommended to use quick-cooking oats for this recipe. Quick-cooking oats are processed differently and are much thinner than rolled oats. They absorb liquid much faster and will likely become mushy and lose their texture when baked for the longer time required for baked oatmeal. Old-fashioned rolled oats provide the best texture and structure for baked oatmeal, resulting in a chewier, more satisfying dish.

Q2: Can I make this baked oatmeal vegan and/or gluten-free?

A: Yes, absolutely! This recipe is easily adaptable for both vegan and gluten-free diets:

• Vegan: To make it vegan, simply substitute the milk with a plant-based milk like almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk. Use a plant-based yogurt alternative like coconut yogurt or soy yogurt in place of Greek yogurt. Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water, let sit for 5 minutes to thicken). Ensure you are using melted coconut oil or another plant-based oil instead of butter.
• Gluten-Free: To make it gluten-free, ensure you are using certified gluten-free rolled oats. Oats are naturally gluten-free, but they are often processed in facilities that also handle wheat, which can lead to cross-contamination. Look for oats specifically labeled as gluten-free. All other ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.

Q3: Can I make baked oatmeal ahead of time?

A: Yes, baked oatmeal is a fantastic make-ahead breakfast option. You have a few options:

• Assemble ahead: You can assemble the entire baked oatmeal in the baking dish the night before, cover it, and refrigerate it. Bake it in the morning as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
• Bake and reheat: You can bake the entire dish, let it cool, cut it into squares, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Baked oatmeal reheats beautifully.

Q4: Can I freeze baked oatmeal?

A: Yes, baked oatmeal freezes well. Let it cool completely after baking, then cut it into squares. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator or reheat directly from frozen in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Q5: What if I don’t have maple syrup? Can I use another sweetener?

A: Yes, you can use other sweeteners in place of maple syrup. Good substitutes include:

• Honey: Honey will add a slightly different flavor profile but is a good liquid sweetener alternative.
• Agave Nectar: Agave nectar is another liquid sweetener option with a neutral flavor.
• Brown Sugar: You can use packed brown sugar instead of maple syrup. Whisk it into the wet ingredients until dissolved.
• Granulated Sugar: Granulated sugar can also be used, but liquid sweeteners tend to blend into the batter more seamlessly and provide a slightly moister result.
• Sugar-Free Sweeteners: If you prefer a sugar-free option, you can use stevia or erythritol, but be mindful that sugar substitutes can sometimes alter the texture slightly.

We hope these FAQs are helpful! Enjoy baking and savoring your delicious Blueberry Apple & Walnut Baked Oatmeal!

Print