Maple Walnut Baked Oatmeal
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Enjoy a warm and comforting bowl of Maple Walnut Baked Oatmeal, perfect for breakfast or a cozy snack.
This Maple Walnut Baked Oatmeal is not just a delicious breakfast option but also a wholesome way to start your day. The sweet maple syrup and crunchy walnuts combine perfectly with hearty oats, creating a dish that's both nutritious and satisfying.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Warm and comforting, perfect for chilly mornings
- Nutty flavor from walnuts adds a delightful crunch
- Naturally sweetened with maple syrup for a wholesome taste
A Wholesome Breakfast Option
Maple Walnut Baked Oatmeal is not just a delicious dish; it's a nourishing way to start your day. Packed with rolled oats, this baked oatmeal is rich in fiber, which helps keep you full longer and supports digestive health. The addition of walnuts not only adds a satisfying crunch but also provides healthy fats, protein, and essential nutrients. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain energy levels throughout the morning.
Moreover, using maple syrup as a natural sweetener means you can enjoy a touch of sweetness without the refined sugars found in many breakfast cereals. The combination of oats, nuts, and maple syrup creates a comforting dish that is both satisfying and energizing, ensuring you kick off your day on the right note.
Versatile and Customizeable
One of the best aspects of Maple Walnut Baked Oatmeal is its versatility. You can easily customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. If you're looking for a nut-free option, simply omit the walnuts or substitute them with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower. You can also experiment with different types of milk, whether dairy or plant-based, to create a creamy texture that aligns with your dietary choices.
Additionally, feel free to add in your favorite fruits or spices. Fresh berries, sliced bananas, or even dried fruits like raisins or cranberries can enhance the flavor and nutritional profile. Adjusting the spices, such as adding nutmeg or ginger, can also introduce new dimensions to this classic recipe.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Maple Walnut Baked Oatmeal is an excellent option for meal prep enthusiasts. Not only is it easy to make in batches, but it also keeps well in the refrigerator for several days. You can prepare a large dish at the beginning of the week and enjoy it for breakfast throughout. To reheat, simply warm individual portions in the microwave or oven, making mornings quick and hassle-free.
This meal prep ability also means you can enjoy a wholesome breakfast even on the busiest of days. Pair it with a quick smoothie or a piece of fruit for a balanced meal that fuels your morning activities without compromising on flavor or nutrition.
Ingredients
For the Baked Oatmeal
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 cups milk (or non-dairy alternative)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg (optional)
For Serving (optional)
- Additional walnuts
- Maple syrup
- Fresh fruit
Combine all the ingredients for a delicious baked oatmeal!
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, chopped walnuts, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and the egg (if using).
Combine Everything
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
Bake
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown.
Serve
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Add additional walnuts, drizzle with maple syrup, or top with fresh fruit if desired.
Enjoy your Maple Walnut Baked Oatmeal warm!
Tips for the Best Baked Oatmeal
To achieve the perfect texture in your Maple Walnut Baked Oatmeal, ensure that your oats are fresh and not stale. Stale oats can result in a less desirable texture and flavor. Additionally, feel free to adjust the amount of maple syrup based on your sweetness preference; you can start with less and add more if needed after baking.
Another tip is to let the baked oatmeal cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows it to set and makes it easier to cut into squares. If you prefer a creamier texture, you can add an extra splash of milk when serving.
Storage and Reheating
Once baked, Maple Walnut Baked Oatmeal can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. This makes it an ideal choice for meal prep or for enjoying throughout the week. If you find yourself with leftovers, consider freezing portions for an even longer shelf life. Just be sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn.
When you're ready to enjoy your baked oatmeal again, you can reheat it in the microwave for a quick and easy breakfast. Alternatively, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. Adding a splash of milk before reheating can help restore its creamy texture.
Serving Suggestions
Maple Walnut Baked Oatmeal is delightful on its own, but there are numerous ways to elevate your serving. Consider topping it with additional walnuts for an extra crunch or a drizzle of warm maple syrup to enhance the sweet flavor. Fresh fruits such as berries, banana slices, or apple chunks can add a refreshing twist and extra nutrition to your bowl.
For a richer experience, you might also consider serving it with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of cinnamon. These additions not only enhance the flavor but also make your breakfast visually appealing, encouraging you to savor every bite.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this baked oatmeal ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture the night before and bake it in the morning.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I add other ingredients?
Absolutely! You can add dried fruits, chocolate chips, or other nuts to customize your baked oatmeal.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use certified gluten-free oats to make this recipe gluten-free.
Maple Walnut Baked Oatmeal
Enjoy a warm and comforting bowl of Maple Walnut Baked Oatmeal, perfect for breakfast or a cozy snack.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Baked Oatmeal
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 cups milk (or non-dairy alternative)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg (optional)
For Serving (optional)
- Additional walnuts
- Maple syrup
- Fresh fruit
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, chopped walnuts, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
In another bowl, whisk together milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and the egg (if using).
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown.
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Add additional walnuts, drizzle with maple syrup, or top with fresh fruit if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 46g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 8g