Craving a delicious and wholesome start to your day? This Blackberry Lemon Baked Oatmeal is a perfect healthy berry breakfast, offering a comforting and flavorful dish that’s simple to prepare. You’ll love how easy it is to make this delightful morning treat.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Rolled Oats: Do not use instant oats; steel-cut oats will require more liquid and baking time.
- Blackberries: Fresh or frozen work well. Other berries like raspberries or blueberries can be used.
- Lemon: Both zest and juice are crucial for flavor.
- Milk: Any plant-based milk (almond, soy, oat) or dairy milk is fine.
- Sweetener: Maple syrup or honey are great options.
Ingredients
Main:
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 cups milk
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen blackberries
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300
- Tools Needed: 8×8 inch baking dish, mixing bowls, whisk
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an 8×8 inch baking dish to prevent sticking, ensuring easy cleanup later.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, baking powder, salt, and lemon zest. Make sure these are thoroughly combined for even baking.
3. Whisk Wet Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the milk, maple syrup, egg, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
4. Combine Wet and Dry
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined; avoid overmixing.
5. Add Blackberries
Fold in the blackberries carefully. You want them distributed throughout the mixture without crushing them too much.
6. Transfer and Bake
Pour the oatmeal mixture into your prepared baking dish. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and the oatmeal is set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out mostly clean.
7. Serve Warm
Let the baked oatmeal cool for a few minutes before serving. It’s delicious warm, perhaps with a drizzle of extra maple syrup or a dollop of yogurt.
Variation Ideas
- Other Berries: Try blueberries, raspberries, or a mix of your favorite berries for a different healthy berry breakfast.
- Nutty Boost: Add a handful of chopped nuts like almonds or pecans to the mixture before baking.
- Spiced Up: Include a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom for added warmth.
- Coconut Flair: Mix in a few tablespoons of shredded unsweetened coconut for a tropical twist.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover Blackberry Lemon Baked Oatmeal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or warm them in the oven until heated through. This makes it a great option for meal prepping healthy berry breakfasts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, easily substitute dairy milk with any plant-based milk like almond, soy, or oat milk.
Can I use instant oats?
No, instant oats will result in a mushy texture. Stick to rolled oats for the best results.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
You can mix the dry and wet ingredients separately the night before, then combine and bake in the morning for a fresh healthy berry breakfast.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, you can freeze individual slices of baked oatmeal for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat.
Can I reduce the sweetness?
Absolutely, you can adjust the amount of maple syrup to your preference. Start with less and add more if needed.
What if I don’t have fresh lemon?
You can use bottled lemon juice, though fresh zest provides a more vibrant flavor.