Baked Oatmeal With Strawberries

Name: Baked Oatmeal With Strawberries
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 2 cups milk (or non-dairy alternative); 1/4 cup maple syrup (or honey); 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Highlighted under: Fresh Start Meals

When I first discovered baked oatmeal, I was amazed at how simple it is to make and yet so comforting. With fresh strawberries mixed in, it becomes a delightful breakfast that not only nourishes but also satisfies my sweet tooth. I love preparing it on lazy weekends, knowing I can enjoy a warm and hearty breakfast without much fuss. This baked oatmeal is perfect for meal prep too, allowing me to enjoy wholesome bites throughout the week, making mornings a breeze.

Created by

Lucy Price

Last updated on 2026-02-06T18:21:36.937Z

My journey with baked oatmeal began on a chilly morning when I craved something warm and filling yet nutritious. I decided to experiment with oats and strawberries, and the result was simply divine. The sweetness from the ripe strawberries melds beautifully with the wholesome oats, creating a perfect balance of flavors. I also learned that soaking the oats just a bit before baking helps them absorb the liquid better, making the dish creamier.

What I truly appreciate about this recipe is its versatility. You can switch out the strawberries for any seasonal fruit or even add nuts for extra crunch. It’s a fantastic way to use up fruits that are starting to lose their freshness and turn them into a cozy breakfast. Plus, it holds up well in the fridge, so I can snack on it throughout the week!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Heartwarming combination of oats and strawberries
Easy to prepare and bake in one dish
Great for meal prep – stays fresh all week!
Versatile recipe that accepts various fruits

The Role of Oats

Oats are the star of this baked oatmeal recipe, and their quality makes a significant difference in texture and flavor. Rolled oats are recommended for their ability to absorb moisture while maintaining a chewy bite, resulting in a perfect structure. When baked, they soften but still hold some integrity, providing a delightful texture contrast to the sweet strawberries. Avoid quick oats, as they can become mushy and turn your baked oatmeal into an unappealing pudding.

Be mindful of the oat-to-liquid ratio, especially if you decide to adjust the sweetness level of the dish. For example, if you add more maple syrup or substitute with a thick non-dairy milk, you might want to reduce the oats slightly to maintain the right consistency. This careful balance ensures you achieve that comforting, hearty quality without it becoming overly dense.

Customizing Your Baked Oatmeal

One of the best features of this baked oatmeal recipe is its versatility. While strawberries shine in this version, feel free to swap in other fresh fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even chopped apples. Each fruit brings a different flavor profile and texture; for instance, using blueberries will introduce little bursts of juiciness, whereas apples will add a pleasant crunch and hint of tartness when baked with cinnamon.

You can also experiment with different flavorings. Try adding a splash of almond extract for a nutty twist or incorporating chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch. If you seek a healthier alternative, replace half the maple syrup with unsweetened applesauce; this adjustment cuts sugar while enhancing the moisture and sweetness naturally.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Baked oatmeal is fantastic for meal prep, and storing it properly can maximize its freshness. Once completely cooled, cut the baked oatmeal into squares and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions wrapped in plastic wrap and then in foil. This method keeps them fresh for up to three months, making breakfast easy to grab on busy mornings.

When you're ready to enjoy your baked oatmeal, reheating is simple. For individual portions, a microwave works perfectly—heat for about 30 seconds to one minute, depending on your microwave's power. If you prefer a crispy top, pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until hot and golden. Don’t forget to add a splash of milk before reheating to keep it moist and delicious!

Ingredients

Ingredients:

Main Ingredients

2 cups rolled oats
2 cups milk (or non-dairy alternative)
1/4 cup maple syrup (or honey)
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Feel free to adjust the sweetness based on your preference!

Instructions

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, milk, maple syrup, baking powder, vanilla extract, salt, and cinnamon. Stir until well mixed.

Add Strawberries

Fold in the sliced strawberries gently, ensuring they are evenly distributed within the mixture.

Bake

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake for 30 minutes or until the top is golden and set.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, perhaps with a drizzle of additional maple syrup or a dollop of yogurt.

This baked oatmeal can be enjoyed warm or cold.

Pro Tips

Consider adding nuts or seeds for extra texture and nutrition. For a creamier consistency, let the mixture sit for a few minutes before baking.

Flavor Enhancement

To heighten the flavor of your baked oatmeal, the addition of spices can make a big impact. Cinnamon plays a crucial role in complementing the sweetness of the strawberries. Consider trying nutmeg or ginger, which will provide warmth and depth. For an even more aromatic experience, add a tablespoon of orange zest; it enhances the fruitiness and adds a fragrant note that lifts the entire dish.

In addition to spices, considering the milk you use can also enhance flavors. If you opt for almond or coconut milk, they not only contribute their own unique flavors but can also give a wonderful creaminess, enriching the overall texture of the baked oatmeal. Experimenting with your milk choice can lead to delightful surprises!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your baked oatmeal turns out too dry, it likely means there wasn’t enough liquid or that it was baked for too long. To remedy this next time, keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking and use a toothpick to check for doneness. Look for moist crumbs rather than a clean pick, indicating a perfect consistency. A slight jiggle in the center is also a good sign that it’s just right.

On the other hand, if your baked oatmeal is too wet, adding a few minutes to the baking time can help. However, if you encounter this consistency with added fruit, stick to firmer varieties or reduce the volume slightly next time to avoid excess moisture. Adjusting the fruit content helps maintain an ideal texture in the final product.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen strawberries work well, but be sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

If you use certified gluten-free oats, this recipe can be made gluten-free.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ Can I substitute the milk?

Absolutely! You can use almond milk, soy milk, or coconut milk as alternatives.