Baked Oatmeal with Berries and Almond Butter is a cozy, wholesome breakfast that combines the rich creaminess of almond butter with the natural sweetness of fresh berries. The oats create a soft, satisfying base, and the toasted almonds provide the perfect crunch to complement the creamy texture.
This dish is incredibly versatile! Feel free to swap the berries for other fruits like apples, bananas, or peaches, or even add a drizzle of honey or extra nut butter for a decadent twist. It’s also a fantastic option for meal prepping—just bake it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 cups rolled oats
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1 ½ cups milk (or dairy-free alternative)
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1/3 cup almond butter
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1 tablespoon chia seeds
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1 teaspoon cinnamon
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1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional)
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1 cup mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries)
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/2 cup chopped almonds
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
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In a large bowl, mix oats, chia seeds, cinnamon, salt, and chopped almonds.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, almond butter, maple syrup (if using), and vanilla extract until smooth.
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Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well combined.
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Gently fold in the mixed berries, then pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
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Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the oatmeal has set.
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Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm with extra almond butter and berries on top, if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes Kcal: 300 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Why Choose Baked Oatmeal for Breakfast?
Baked oatmeal has gained popularity in recent years as a trendy and convenient breakfast option, and for good reason. Traditional oatmeal is great for you, but baked oatmeal takes things to the next level by offering a warm, satisfying texture that feels more like a cozy dessert than a meal. Additionally, it can be made in advance and easily stored for busy mornings, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping. Unlike typical cereals or pastries, baked oatmeal is nutrient-dense and free from refined sugars, giving you sustained energy instead of a quick sugar crash.
Another reason to love baked oatmeal is that it’s incredibly customizable. While this recipe combines berries and almond butter, you can easily tweak it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Add other fruits like apples, bananas, or peaches, or even stir in some nuts, seeds, or spices for extra flavor and nutrition. If you’re following a gluten-free diet, you can make sure your oats are certified gluten-free, and if you’re looking for a plant-based option, simply swap the milk for your favorite dairy-free alternative.
Health Benefits of the Key Ingredients
The key ingredients in this baked oatmeal recipe provide several health benefits. Oats, the foundation of the dish, are rich in beta-glucan, a soluble fiber that has been shown to reduce cholesterol levels, support heart health, and boost the immune system. They also have a low glycemic index, meaning they are digested slowly, leading to a gradual release of energy without the blood sugar spikes associated with processed foods.
Almond butter, a healthy fat source, is packed with monounsaturated fats, which are good for your heart and may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Almonds are also rich in vitamin E, an antioxidant that plays a role in protecting cells from damage and supporting skin health. Additionally, almond butter provides a good amount of protein, helping to keep you full and satisfied for longer.
Berries, often hailed as “superfoods,” are loaded with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. They are particularly high in vitamin C, which supports immune function and promotes healthy skin. Blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries are also known for their anti-inflammatory properties and may help protect the body from oxidative stress and chronic diseases.
How to Make Baked Oatmeal with Berries and Almond Butter Your Own
One of the best aspects of baked oatmeal is its versatility. Here are some ways to customize this recipe to suit your preferences and make it even more exciting:
Add Other Fruits
While the recipe calls for mixed berries, feel free to experiment with other fruits. Sliced bananas, diced apples, or fresh peaches would all make great additions to the dish. You could even mix and match different fruits to create a colorful and flavorful combination. Keep in mind that the sweetness of the fruit will add to the overall flavor, so adjust the amount of sweetener (like maple syrup) accordingly.
Swap the Nut Butter
If you prefer a different type of nut butter, go ahead and switch it up. Peanut butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter can be used in place of almond butter, each offering a slightly different taste and texture. Nut butters provide healthy fats and protein, but you can choose one based on your dietary preferences or allergies.
Make It Vegan
For a fully vegan version of this dish, use a plant-based milk, such as almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk. Also, be sure to check that your almond butter is free of dairy ingredients. The recipe is naturally plant-based, so it’s easy to make it vegan-friendly without altering the flavor or texture much.
Increase the Protein Content
If you’re looking to boost the protein content, consider adding some seeds (like chia seeds, flaxseeds, or hemp seeds) or even a scoop of protein powder to the oatmeal mixture. This will make the dish even more filling and satisfying, especially for those with active lifestyles or those trying to increase their protein intake.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Baked oatmeal with berries and almond butter can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve it warm out of the oven for a cozy, comforting breakfast, or allow it to cool and store it in the refrigerator for a few days. It’s the perfect meal to prep ahead of time for busy mornings. Simply reheat a portion in the microwave or oven, and you’re ready to enjoy a wholesome breakfast.
For added richness, top your serving with extra almond butter or a dollop of yogurt. If you like a bit of crunch, sprinkle some granola or chopped nuts on top. You could also drizzle a little honey or maple syrup over the dish if you prefer a sweeter flavor. Pair it with a cup of herbal tea, coffee, or a smoothie for a well-rounded breakfast.
This recipe is not only perfect for breakfast but also makes a great snack or light dessert. Its balance of fiber, healthy fats, and protein makes it an excellent choice for a satisfying snack that will keep you energized without weighing you down.
How to Store and Reheat
One of the biggest advantages of baked oatmeal is that it stores well, making it a great option for meal prepping. After baking, allow the oatmeal to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or oven. If you prefer, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave with a splash of milk to restore its creamy consistency.
Baked Oatmeal as a Meal Prep Staple
Meal prepping is a great way to ensure that you have a healthy, ready-to-eat breakfast on hand throughout the week. This baked oatmeal recipe is a fantastic addition to your meal prep rotation. You can make a large batch at the beginning of the week, portion it out into individual servings, and store it in the fridge for an easy grab-and-go breakfast. It’s an excellent option for busy mornings when you don’t have time to cook but still want something nutritious and satisfying.
Conclusion
Baked oatmeal with berries and almond butter is a wholesome, delicious, and nutritious breakfast option that can be enjoyed by anyone looking for a healthy way to start the day. The combination of oats, almond butter, and fresh berries offers a perfect balance of fiber, protein, healthy fats, and antioxidants. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast to prepare or a comforting meal to enjoy on a leisurely morning, this baked oatmeal recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. With its versatility, you can easily customize it to suit your tastes or dietary needs. So, give this recipe a try and enjoy a warm, satisfying breakfast that will keep you energized all morning long!