Baked Protein Oatmeal is a warm and hearty dish that’s perfect for breakfast! It’s made with oats, eggs, and your favorite toppings like fruits and nuts, making it both tasty and filling.
This dish is like a cozy hug in a bowl. Plus, it’s super easy to make, and you can even prepare it ahead of time. I love to add berries on top for a sweet touch—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats give this dish a hearty texture. If you don’t have them, quick oats can be used, but they may change the consistency slightly. I find rolled oats have a better chew!
Protein Powder: You can use either vanilla or unflavored protein powder. If you’re vegan, plant-based protein powders like pea or hemp work well. For a keto-friendly option, check sugar content in the protein powder.
Milk: Dairy milk works great, but almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk are tasty alternatives. Just make sure they’re unsweetened if you’re watching sugar. Personally, I love using almond milk for a lighter option.
Peanut Butter: If you’re allergic to peanuts, almond butter or sunflower seed butter are excellent substitutes. I enjoy the creaminess of peanut butter, but any nut or seed butter adds good flavor!
Sweetener: Maple syrup adds a nice sweetness, but honey or agave are great too! You can even skip it entirely if you want a less sweet oatmeal, especially if the bananas are ripe.
How Do I Ensure My Baked Oatmeal is Perfectly Cooked?
To get that perfect bake, follow these steps carefully. The baking time can vary based on your oven and the dish used, so keep an eye on it!
- Preheat your oven thoroughly; starting with a hot oven is crucial for even baking.
- Check for doneness at the 25-minute mark. The oatmeal should be set in the middle and slightly golden on top.
- If it’s still jiggly in the center, give it a few more minutes and test again.
- Let it cool slightly before serving to help it firm up even more.
Trust me, a few extra minutes of patience will lead to delicious results! Enjoy your baked protein oatmeal as is, or customize it with your favorite toppings.
Baked Protein Oatmeal
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 scoop vanilla or unflavored protein powder (about 25-30g)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp natural peanut butter (plus extra for drizzling)
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey (optional)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
- 1 small banana, sliced
- Extra blueberries and sliced banana for topping
- Optional: extra peanut butter for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to bake, plus a few minutes to cool before enjoying. So in total, you’re looking at around 45 minutes for a warm, delicious breakfast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, take a moment to grease an 8×8 inch baking dish or a similar-sized oven-safe dish so that nothing sticks!
2. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix together the rolled oats, protein powder, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. This will help evenly distribute the dry ingredients and ensure every bite is flavorful!
3. Whisk the Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, peanut butter, maple syrup (if using), and vanilla extract until it’s nice and smooth. This step is essential for mixing in the egg and creating a creamy texture.
4. Mix Everything Together:
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir everything together until just combined. Don’t over-mix; a few lumps are perfectly fine!
5. Fold in the Blueberries:
Gently fold in half of the blueberries into the batter. This adds a burst of sweetness and color that makes the oatmeal even more delightful.
6. Pour into the Baking Dish:
Carefully transfer the oatmeal mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure it cooks nicely.
7. Add Toppings:
Dot the top with the remaining blueberries and arrange the banana slices over half or all of the top, just as you like it!
8. Bake to Perfection:
Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the oatmeal is set and slightly golden on top. The aroma will be fantastic!
9. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This helps it firm up a bit, making it easier to serve.
10. Drizzle and Enjoy:
Drizzle some extra peanut butter on top if you crave a little more flavor. Serve warm, with extra fresh blueberries and banana slices on the side for a delightful breakfast treat!
Enjoy your warm, protein-packed baked oatmeal! It’s perfect for starting your day off right with flavor and energy!
Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
While you can use quick oats, your baked oatmeal may turn out a bit mushier. Rolled oats provide a better texture, so I recommend sticking with them for the best results.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Recipe?
If you prefer a sweeter oatmeal, simply add more maple syrup or honey to taste. You can start with 1-2 tablespoons and adjust to your liking. Alternatively, for less sweetness, you can reduce the amount or leave it out altogether!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture the night before and store it in the fridge, then bake it in the morning. Another option is to bake it ahead of time and reheat portions throughout the week—just warm it in the microwave or oven.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To enjoy again, simply reheat in the microwave or in the oven. Add a splash of milk if it seems a bit dry when reheating!
