Why You’ll Love This Morning Glory Baked Oats
If you’ve been searching for a breakfast that’s both nutritious and indulgent, look no further than this Morning Glory Baked Oats recipe. This baked oatmeal is packed with wholesome ingredients like rolled oats, shredded carrots, apples, walnuts, and raisins or dried cranberries, creating a perfect balance of sweetness, warmth, and texture. It’s like having a healthy muffin in a bowl—comforting and satisfying, yet light and nourishing.
What’s fantastic about Morning Glory Baked Oats is how versatile it is. It’s great for meal prep, so you can bake a big batch at the start of the week and have a quick, healthy breakfast ready for several days. It’s also customizable to suit your dietary needs, whether you prefer dairy or non-dairy milk, or whether you want to add more fruit or nuts. With a hint of cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla, it’s a cozy dish that will quickly become a favorite in your morning routine.
What You’ll Need
To make Morning Glory Baked Oats, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups rolled oats – These form the hearty base of the dish, providing fiber and keeping you full throughout the morning.
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots – Carrots add natural sweetness and a boost of vitamin A, giving the dish both flavor and nutrition.
- 1/2 cup apple, grated – Grated apple adds moisture and a lovely sweetness that complements the other ingredients.
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped – Walnuts bring a crunchy texture and healthy fats to the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon – This spice enhances the flavor, adding a comforting warmth to the oats.
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg – Nutmeg pairs perfectly with cinnamon, giving the dish a deeper, spiced flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – A small amount of salt helps balance the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey) – Sweeten the oats naturally with maple syrup or honey.
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy) – This adds creaminess and helps bind the ingredients together. Use your preferred type of milk.
- 2 large eggs – Eggs help the oats set and give the dish structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Vanilla brings a subtle, comforting sweetness to the mix.
- 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional) – These add an extra touch of sweetness and texture. You can skip them or use another dried fruit of your choice.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch square baking dish or another similar-sized baking dish with butter or cooking spray. - Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs, 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy), 2 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey), and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Ensure that the eggs are fully beaten and everything is well combined. - Add the Dry Ingredients
To the same bowl, add 2 cups rolled oats, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Stir until the oats and spices are evenly distributed in the mixture. - Incorporate the Fruits and Nuts
Add 1/2 cup shredded carrots, 1/2 cup grated apple, and 1/4 cup chopped walnuts to the bowl. Stir gently to combine. If you’re using raisins or dried cranberries, fold them in as well. The mixture should be well combined but not overly mixed. - Transfer to the Baking Dish
Pour the oatmeal mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Press the mixture down gently to ensure it bakes evenly. - Bake the Oats
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The oats should be firm to the touch but slightly soft in the middle. - Let it Cool and Serve
Once the oatmeal is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Slice it into squares or scoop out portions and serve warm. You can drizzle a little extra maple syrup or honey on top if you prefer it sweeter.
Tips for Success
- Grate the Apple and Carrots Finely: For the best texture, grate the apple and carrots finely. This will help them blend seamlessly into the oats and cook evenly.
- Use Rolled Oats, Not Instant Oats: Rolled oats work best for baked oatmeal as they absorb the liquid well, creating a hearty and chewy texture. Instant oats will not provide the same structure and may become too mushy.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just enough to incorporate everything. Overmixing can lead to a dense and tough texture.
- Customize Your Add-ins: Feel free to adjust the add-ins based on your taste. You can add chia seeds, flax seeds, or other nuts and dried fruits. Just make sure the proportions remain balanced so the oats set correctly.
- Let It Cool Before Slicing: Allow the baked oats to cool for a few minutes before slicing into them. This will help the oats set and make serving easier.
Variations to Try
- Tropical Morning Glory
Swap out the apples and walnuts for tropical fruits like pineapple, coconut flakes, and macadamia nuts. You can also use coconut milk instead of regular milk for a tropical flair. - Pumpkin Spice Baked Oats
Replace the grated apple with 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree and add a bit more cinnamon and nutmeg for a fall-inspired twist. You can also add a tablespoon of chia seeds for extra fiber. - Chocolate Chip Morning Glory Oats
For a decadent touch, add 1/4 cup of mini chocolate chips to the batter. This will add a bit of sweetness without overwhelming the other flavors. - Gluten-Free Morning Glory Oats
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use certified gluten-free oats and ensure your milk and other ingredients are also gluten-free. - Nut-Free Version
If you have a nut allergy or simply prefer not to include nuts, you can easily leave out the walnuts and substitute them with sunflower seeds, or add an extra 1/4 cup of raisins or dried cranberries.
Storing and Reheating
- Storing: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Baked oats are a great meal prep option, so you can make a big batch and have breakfast ready for the week.
- Freezing: To freeze, let the baked oats cool completely, then cut them into individual servings. Wrap each serving tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, you can microwave individual servings for about 30-45 seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. If you prefer your oats a bit moister, add a splash of milk before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
It’s best to use rolled oats for this recipe as they provide the right texture for baked oatmeal. Quick oats may make the dish too soft and mushy. - Can I make this recipe without eggs?
Yes! You can replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water for each egg). This will still help bind the ingredients together and create a firm texture. - Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Morning Glory Baked Oats can be prepared the night before and baked in the morning for a quick breakfast. Alternatively, you can bake it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a few days. - Is there a way to make this recipe sweeter?
If you prefer a sweeter breakfast, you can increase the amount of maple syrup or honey. You could also add a bit of brown sugar or a spoonful of stevia to taste. - Can I add fresh fruit instead of dried?
While dried fruit works well in baked oats, fresh fruit can be used. Keep in mind that fresh fruit has more moisture, so you may need to adjust the baking time or reduce the amount of liquid in the recipe.
Perfect for Meal Prep and Busy Mornings
One of the best things about Morning Glory Baked Oats is how convenient it is for meal prepping. Since this recipe yields multiple servings, you can make a big batch at the start of the week and have a healthy breakfast ready to go each morning. It’s perfect for busy individuals or families who want to enjoy a wholesome, homemade breakfast without spending time cooking every day. Simply bake the oats once, slice them into individual portions, and store them in the fridge or freezer. In the morning, you can grab a serving, reheat it, and be out the door in no time. Plus, you can switch up the ingredients each time you make it, keeping breakfast exciting and full of variety. Whether you enjoy it fresh or reheated, Morning Glory Baked Oats provides the perfect balance of taste and convenience, making it an ideal choice for your weekday mornings.
The Final Word
Morning Glory Baked Oats is the ultimate healthy breakfast that feels like a treat. Packed with fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats, this dish is a great way to start your day on the right note. It’s easy to make, customizable to suit your tastes, and perfect for meal prep. Whether you’re looking for a comforting breakfast to enjoy on a busy morning or a make-ahead option to have throughout the week, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
By using wholesome ingredients like oats, fruits, nuts, and spices, you’re giving your body a nourishing start to the day, while also indulging in something delicious. The balance of flavors and textures makes each bite satisfying and fulfilling, ensuring that you stay energized all morning long.
So, why not give Morning Glory Baked Oats a try? With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe is sure to brighten your mornings and keep you full until lunchtime. Enjoy!