Breakfast is one of my favorite meals of all time. I love experimenting with different healthy breakfast options. In fact, oatmeal is definitely a household regular over here, however I am truly embarrassed to say that this was my first time ever making, baked oatmeal. I really enjoyed how simple it was to make and that I can make it ahead of time for those busy or lazy mornings. In fact, any recipe that saves me time, is a win in my book (let’s get real). I will say, this morning was one of those mornings, and having this Berry Baked Oatmeal in the fridge already made, was extremely convenient! I didn’t have to think about what to make, and all that was required for me was to pop this baby in the toaster oven and re-heat it. Easy peasy!
Now, not only is this recipe simple to make, but it is also super hearty and packed with many nutrients, such as protein, fiber, antioxidants, and much more. Needless to say, this Berry Baked Oatmeal is a great way to start off your day, and kept me feeling fuller longer. It is also gluten-free, dairy-free and refined-sugar-free, so you can enjoy this yummy breakfast without any guilt.
Lets talk about ingredients:
- I used Gluten Free Rolled Oats, which are loaded with fiber, they can help lower cholesterol, and help stabilize blood sugar.
- Unsweetened Almond Milk was used for the liquid. It is actually one of my favorites nut milks to use, either store-bought or you can make your own using this recipe .
- Unsweetened Apple Sauce was used in place of oil or butter, but you can swap it out for any of those options depending on what you had on hand. (Just be sure to use grass-fed-butter or coconut/avocado oil) I like to use apple sauce because it adds more nutrients and is a great way to sneak in more fruit.
- I used pasture-raised eggs to bind everything together. This adds omega 3’s to this dish since pasture-raised-eggs are high in them as well as high in protein. I haven’t tried any egg replacements but two flax eggs should work. (if you choose to use flax eggs, be sure to omit the 1 tbsp of flax from the recipe)
- I added cinnamon since it is one of my favorite spices to use when I bake. It is not only great for its anti-inflammatory benefits, but it is also great to use in place of sugar.
- Pure Maple Syrup was my sweetener of choice for this recipe. You could also substitute this for raw honey.
- I also added ground flax since it was a great way to increase the fiber, antioxidants and omega 3 fatty acids.
- Berries were my fruit of choice for this dish, since they are packed with antioxidants!
I am really happy to report that my little guy, who will be turning two years old this month, scarfed this down as if he was eating one of his favorite desserts! Mom win over here, for sure! With that being said, I really hope you get a chance to make this super yummy dish and if you do, be sure to comment below or tag me using #healthymommamanda!
Recipe:
Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
2 pasture-raised eggs
2-3 tbsp pure maple syrup (can sub raw honey)
1/4 cup unsweetened apple sauce, can swap for butter or oil
1 1/2 tsp aluminum free baking powder
1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp salt
1 tbsp ground flax
3 cups organic rolled oats (gluten free- for those who prefer)
1 cup organic blueberries
1/2 cup organic raspberries
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease or line an 8×8 square baking dish.
- In lg mixing bowl, whisk together you milk, eggs, maple syrup, apple sauce, baking powder, vanilla, cinnamon, salt and flax.
- Mix in your oats.
- Fold in your berries.
- Pour into your baking dish, being sure to spread evenly.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes until it has set.
- Let cool for a few minutes and cut into squares. Serve with your favorite fruits, nuts, milk or even more maple syrup or honey if you like it a little sweeter.
- Store in the fridge in a sealed container.
- For reheating, put into toaster oven or oven for about 15 minutes or so until warmed.