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.
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.
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.
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.
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