Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups almond milk
- 2 eggs
- 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste
Add-ins
- 2 medium apples, diced small
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (or other nut)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease an 8×8-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking. If you choose a different dish size, make sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices and leavening.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate medium-sized bowl, whisk together the almond milk, eggs, maple syrup, and vanilla bean paste until fully blended.
- Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients and stir until everything is thoroughly mixed.
- Add Fruits and Nuts: Fold the diced apples and chopped pecans into the oat mixture, ensuring even distribution.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the combined mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Press it down gently to make sure the oats absorb the liquid uniformly. Optionally, sprinkle a few extra pecans and apple pieces on top for added texture and appearance.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden brown and the oatmeal is set.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the baked oatmeal from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors to meld and the texture to set properly.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 4-5 days. Reheat before serving if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute almond milk with any other plant-based or dairy milk depending on preference or dietary restrictions.
- For a sweeter version, add a bit more maple syrup or a sprinkle of brown sugar on top before baking.
- Use crisp apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and tartness balance.
- To make this recipe nut-free, omit pecans or replace them with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
- This baked oatmeal reheats well in the microwave or oven, making it perfect for meal prepping.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian