Maple Pecan Baked Oatmeal
This Maple Pecan Baked Oatmeal is like a warm hug on a chilly morning, blending wholesome oats with the rich flavors of maple syrup and pecans. It's perfect for cozy breakfasts or brunch gatherings.
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Ingredients for Maple Pecan Baked Oatmeal
Old-fashioned oats are the backbone of this recipe, providing a hearty, chewy texture that's perfect for baked oatmeal. Using oats ensures you get a good dose of fiber to keep you full longer. Chopped pecans add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, while pure maple syrup brings natural sweetness and depth — it's what makes this dish shine. Milk helps to bind everything together while adding creaminess. I prefer whole milk, but you can use your favorite variety. Unsweetened applesauce is a magical ingredient that adds moisture without extra fat and keeps everything light. Eggs provide structure and help the oatmeal set as it bakes. Vanilla extract enhances the sweetness and adds a warm aroma. Ground cinnamon offers a cozy spice that complements the maple and pecans perfectly. Baking powder gives a slight lift, ensuring the oatmeal isn't too dense. A pinch of salt balances all the flavors. Finally, melted butter adds richness that ties everything together brilliantly.
Maple Pecan Baked Oatmeal Tips & Tricks
- Use a mix of nuts or add dried fruits for extra variety.
- Make sure all wet ingredients are at room temperature for smoother mixing.
- Store leftovers in the fridge and reheat for a quick breakfast.
- If you prefer a sweeter dish, consider a drizzle of honey or extra syrup when serving.
Serving Ideas for Maple Pecan Baked Oatmeal
Try serving this baked oatmeal with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a splash of cream for added richness. Fresh berries or sliced bananas make a wonderful topping that adds freshness and color. For a special touch, dust with a bit of powdered sugar or a drizzle of extra maple syrup just before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
- While quick oats can work in a pinch, they may result in a mushier texture. Old-fashioned oats are best for a hearty, chewy result.
- Can I make this recipe vegan?
- Yes, substitute the milk with almond or oat milk, the eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water, and the butter with coconut oil.
- How do I store leftovers?
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
Maple Pecan Baked Oatmeal Recipe Walkthrough
First, preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures it's ready when your oatmeal is, so you don't lose any precious time. While the oven heats up, grab a 9x9-inch baking dish and grease it lightly. This will help the oatmeal come out smoothly and make cleaning up a breeze.
Now, let's mix the dry ingredients. In a large bowl, combine the oats, chopped pecans, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Give it a good stir to make sure everything is evenly distributed. This ensures that every bite has a bit of that pecan crunch.
In another bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: milk, eggs, applesauce, melted butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Whisking helps to break up the eggs and mix everything into a smooth, cohesive liquid.
Next, pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined; you don't want to overmix, or the oats might become mushy. Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly with a spatula. This step is crucial for even baking.
Sprinkle the additional pecans over the top. They will toast as the oatmeal bakes, adding a lovely texture and flavor. Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. It's done when the oatmeal is set and lightly golden on top.
Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This waiting period allows the oatmeal to firm up a bit more, making it easier to cut into neat squares.
Why This Maple Pecan Baked Oatmeal Works
- Rich, comforting flavors of maple and pecans that feel like fall in a bite.
- Easy to make ahead for busy mornings.
- Nutritious ingredients that make you feel good about breakfast.
- Customizable with your favorite toppings or mix-ins.
Ingredients
- 2 cups old-fashioned oats
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 cups milk
- 1/3 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup additional pecans for topping
Step-by-step Instructions
- 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9x9-inch baking dish.
- 2. In a large bowl, mix together the oats, chopped pecans, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- 3. In another bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, applesauce, melted butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
- 4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
- 5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- 6. Sprinkle the additional chopped pecans over the top.
- 7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the oatmeal is set and lightly golden.
- 8. Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.