Baked Steel Cut Oatmeal Recipe

This Baked Steel Cut Oatmeal is the perfect warm and comforting breakfast to start your day. With the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and maple syrup, combined with the richness of almond milk and the wholesome goodness of steel cut oats, this recipe is both nutritious and delicious. Ground flaxseed and pecans add extra fiber and healthy fats, while cinnamon and vanilla provide an irresistible aroma. You can bake it until golden and enjoy it either scooped into bowls or cut into squares for an easy grab-and-go breakfast.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups steel cut oats
• 2 ripe bananas, mashed
• 3 cups almond milk
• 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed
• ¼ cup maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup chopped pecans

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375ºF. Lightly coat a 9×9 baking dish or 8×11 baking pan with cooking spray.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together mashed bananas, almond milk, ground flaxseed, maple syrup, coconut oil, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Add the steel cut oats, cinnamon, and salt to the wet mixture and stir to combine.
4. Pour the oatmeal mixture into the prepared pan. Cover the pan loosely with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
5. Uncover the pan, sprinkle the chopped pecans on top, and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until golden brown (55-60 minutes total).
6. Serve hot, scooped into bowls, or let cool for 10 minutes and cut into squares. Enjoy!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This baked steel cut oatmeal is not only healthy but also incredibly versatile. It’s naturally sweetened with bananas and maple syrup, making it a wholesome breakfast option that is also vegan and gluten-free. Steel cut oats provide a heartier texture compared to regular oats, keeping you fuller for longer. It’s the perfect make-ahead breakfast that you can enjoy throughout the week.

Tips

• Soak the oats: If you prefer a softer texture, you can soak the steel cut oats in the almond milk overnight before baking.
• For extra sweetness: Add a touch more maple syrup or even some dried fruit like raisins or cranberries before baking.
• Texture adjustment: If you like a creamier consistency, add an extra ½ cup of almond milk.

Variations and Substitutions

• Nut butter: For extra richness, stir in 2 tablespoons of almond or peanut butter.
• Milk options: Use any milk of choice, such as oat milk or coconut milk, if you prefer a different flavor.
• Add-ins: Mix in other fruits like blueberries, apples, or chopped dates.
• Toppings: Top with chia seeds, shredded coconut, or even yogurt for added flavor and texture.

FAQs

• Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
  Yes! You can prepare the oatmeal the night before and store it in the fridge. Simply reheat it in the oven or microwave for a quick and easy breakfast.
• Can I freeze leftovers?
  Yes, this oatmeal freezes very well. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake at 350ºF for 10-15 minutes or microwave until hot.

Serving

Serve this baked oatmeal with a drizzle of almond milk or yogurt on top. It’s great for breakfast or a nutritious snack throughout the day. Add fresh fruit or a sprinkle of granola to make it even more satisfying.

Suggestions

• Pair with protein: Serve with a side of eggs or a protein shake for a balanced breakfast.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch on the weekend and enjoy it all week long, whether for breakfast or as a quick snack.