Looking for a nutritious and satisfying breakfast that’s quick to prepare and full of flavor? This Baked Oats recipe is your perfect solution. Made with just a handful of wholesome ingredients like rolled oats, banana, and a touch of maple syrup, this baked treat is both healthy and delicious. Plus, it’s customizable—add a little cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist or enjoy it as is for a simple, sweet morning start. Whether you’re fueling up before a busy day or indulging in a cozy weekend treat, this baked oats recipe is sure to hit the spot!

Ingredients:

½ cup rolled oats
1 ripe banana
1 large egg
1 tablespoon maple syrup
½ teaspoon baking powder
Pinch of salt
Cooking spray
1 tablespoon cocoa powder (optional, for chocolate flavor)

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a ramekin or oven-safe pan with cooking spray.
Blend the Ingredients: In a blender, combine the rolled oats, ripe banana, egg, maple syrup, baking powder, salt, and cocoa powder (if using). Blend until smooth and well-combined, about 1 minute.
Bake: Pour the oat batter into the prepared ramekin. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a cake tester or toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few crumbs.
Cool and Serve: Allow the baked oats to cool in the ramekin for 10 minutes before serving. Top with your favorite toppings, like fresh fruit, yogurt, or nut butter, if desired.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with fiber, protein, and healthy carbs, this baked oats recipe is a perfect way to start your day.
Naturally Sweetened: The natural sweetness from the ripe banana and maple syrup means no added refined sugars, making it a wholesome choice.
Customizable: You can easily adjust the flavor by adding extra toppings or spices like cinnamon, vanilla, or even a spoonful of peanut butter.
Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and a quick baking time, this recipe is a perfect option for busy mornings or meal prepping for the week ahead.

Tips:

Use a Ripe Banana: The riper the banana, the sweeter and more flavorful your baked oats will be.
Check for Doneness: Depending on the size of your ramekin or pan, the baking time may vary slightly. Keep an eye on it and test for doneness with a cake tester or toothpick.
Experiment with Spices: Try adding a dash of cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla extract to change up the flavor.
Make It Dairy-Free: Use a plant-based egg substitute and dairy-free yogurt or nut butter to make this recipe dairy-free.

Variations and Substitutions:

Chocolate Baked Oats: Add 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder to the batter to create a delicious chocolate version of this baked oats recipe. You can also stir in some chocolate chips for an extra indulgent treat.
Nut Butter: Add a tablespoon of almond or peanut butter for extra creaminess and healthy fats.
Fruit Toppings: Top your baked oats with fresh berries, sliced banana, or a dollop of yogurt for added flavor and texture.
Sweeteners: If you prefer a sweeter version, you can increase the maple syrup or use honey or agave syrup instead.

FAQs:

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats? Yes, you can use quick oats, but keep in mind that they may result in a slightly softer texture. Rolled oats give a heartier texture that’s perfect for baking.

Can I make this recipe in advance? Absolutely! You can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This is also a great recipe for meal prepping—just reheat in the microwave or oven.

How can I make this recipe vegan? To make this recipe vegan, use a flax egg or chia egg as a substitute for the regular egg. Also, ensure you use a plant-based yogurt or nut butter for toppings.

Serving:

Serve your baked oats warm, right out of the oven, for a comforting breakfast or snack. Add your favorite toppings such as fresh fruit, a drizzle of honey, or a dollop of Greek yogurt to make it even more delicious and filling.

Suggestions:

For a Protein Boost: Add a scoop of your favorite protein powder to the batter to make this recipe even more nutritious.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make several ramekins of baked oats and store them in the fridge for easy grab-and-go breakfasts throughout the week.
Pair with a Drink: Enjoy your baked oats with a cup of coffee, tea, or a smoothie to make a complete breakfast.

This baked oats recipe is the ultimate balance of healthy, delicious, and customizable—perfect for starting your day off right! Whether you prefer a fruity, chocolatey, or nutty twist, this recipe is as versatile as it is tasty.