Get ready to fall in love with a guilt-free treat - our sugar-free baked oatmeal! Imagine the goodness of ripe mashed bananas, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and the nutty crunch that'll make your taste buds do a happy dance. No sugar needed when you've got naturally sweet bananas in the mix! It's like a cozy, comforting hug on a plate.
Whether you're a breakfast enthusiast or just someone with a sweet tooth looking for a healthier option, this baked oatmeal will be your new favorite. So grab those ingredients, mix it up, and let the oven work its magic. Your taste buds are in for a seriously delicious ride!
PS: If you love oats, give my homemade granola a try! It's incredibly better than store bought and pretty easy to make.
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When to Serve?
Baked oats are versatile, fitting right into your routine. Serve them on busy weekdays for a quick and nourishing breakfast, or whip them up for a lazy weekend brunch that feels indulgent yet wholesome. Anytime you crave comfort and a dash of creativity, baked oats are ready to hit the spot.
Breakfast: Baked oatmeal is a fantastic breakfast option. Its heartiness and variety of flavors make it a satisfying and nutritious way to start your day.
Brunch: If you're hosting a brunch gathering, baked oatmeal can be a delightful addition to your spread. It's a crowd-pleaser and can be prepared in advance.
Snack: Baked oatmeal squares or portions can make for a filling and wholesome snack during the day. They're portable and can help curb hunger.
Dessert: Some variations of baked oatmeal, like those with fruit and spices, can serve as a healthier dessert option. Top with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of honey for a sweet finish.
Meal Prep: Baked oatmeal can be made ahead of time and stored for quick breakfasts or snacks throughout the week. Just reheat and enjoy!
Ingredients
Rolled oats: The hearty base that adds texture and sustenance.
Cinnamon: Infuses warm, comforting flavor.
Walnuts: Provides a delightful crunch and nutty essence.
Baking powder: Helps the oatmeal rise and become fluffy.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
Egg: Binds everything together for a cohesive texture.
Butter: Adds richness and depth to the dish.
Ripe bananas: Brings in natural sweetness and moisture.
Low-fat milk or plain almond milk: Creates a creamy, satisfying consistency.
Vanilla extract: Elevates the overall flavor profile.
How to Make
Preparation:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) – the perfect temperature for baking up a comforting breakfast delight. In a medium-sized bowl, unite the dry ingredients: nutty oats, a touch of cinnamon for warmth, a generous helping of chopped walnuts for that satisfying crunch, and a dash of baking powder and a pinch of salt to bring it all together.
Mixing and Baking:
Next, in a separate bowl, gather your wet ingredients. Crack in an egg for that binding magic, melt a bit of butter for that rich depth, and add in the star of the show: a ripe and smashed banana, lending its natural sweetness and moistness. Pour in low-fat milk or plain almond milk, and a drop of vanilla extract to elevate the flavor. Mix these luscious wet ingredients into the dry mix, giving it a friendly stir for about a minute – just enough time for everything to harmonize.
Baking and Serving:
Now, it's time to bake. Grease an 8x8 casserole dish, and pour in your batter. Slide it into the preheated oven, where it will bake for roughly 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye on it – when it's lightly golden and set, that's your cue. Once baked to perfection, allow it a brief cooling moment, around 5 minutes, before diving in. If you want firm oats, use a toothpick to test the center for doneness.
Consider topping your creation with extra slices of fruit – a touch of sweetness to complement the heartiness of the oatmeal.
Substitutions
Oats: If you're looking to switch up the oats, consider using quinoa flakes, millet, or a mixture of different grains for a unique texture.
Nuts: Swap walnuts with almonds, pecans, or hazelnuts, or go nut-free by adding seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
Bananas: Instead of bananas, experiment with mashed berries, grated apples, or even pumpkin puree for a seasonal twist.
Milk: Opt for your favorite milk alternative, such as oat milk, coconut milk, or yogurt for added creaminess.
Flavor Variations for Baked Oats
Customizing your baked oatmeal is a breeze, offering a ton of flavors to explore. These variations transform breakfast into a flavorful adventure tailored to your cravings. For the sugar lovers in your life, feel free to serve these variations with maple syrup, honey, sweetened whipped cream or your favorite yogurt. If they insist, brown sugar can also be sprinkled on top!
1. Apple Cinnamon:
- Use diced apples for natural sweetness and texture.
- Add a generous sprinkle of cinnamon for cozy warmth.
- Consider mixing in chopped nuts (like almonds or walnuts) for crunch.
- Optional: A drizzle of honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness.
2. Almond Joy:
- Utilize sweetened shredded coconut for tropical flair.
- Add sliced almonds for nutty crunch.
- Mix in a touch of almond extract for almond flavor.
- Optional: A few dark chocolate chips for indulgence.
3. Mixed Berry Bliss:
- Choose a mix of fresh or frozen berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries) for vibrant sweetness.
- Consider folding in a teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Optional: A dollop of Greek yogurt for creaminess.
4. Apple Cinnamon Nut:
- Swap bananas with diced apples or apple sauce for sweetness and texture.
- Add a dash of cinnamon for warmth.
- Mix in chopped nuts (like almonds or pecans) for crunch and richness.
- Optional: A sprinkle of nutmeg for depth of flavor.
5. Pumpkin Spice:
- Use pureed pumpkin for creaminess and seasonal flavor.
- Incorporate a blend of pumpkin pie spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger) for warmth.
- Consider adding chopped nuts (like pecans) for texture and nuttiness.
6. Carrot Cake Inspired:
- Utilize grated carrots for natural sweetness and texture.
- Add a touch of cinnamon and nutmeg for warm, comforting flavors.
- Mix in chopped nuts (like walnuts) for crunch and richness.
- Raisins or maple syrup for sweetness.
7. Peanut Butter & Jelly:
- Swap bananas with a spoonful of natural peanut butter for creaminess and nuttiness.
- Incorporate mashed berries (like strawberries or raspberries) for the jelly flavor.
- Mix in chopped nuts (like peanuts) for crunch and richness.
- Optional: A sprinkle of chia seeds for added texture.
8. Peach Cobbler Delight:
- Swap bananas with diced or mashed ripe peaches (fresh, frozen, or canned) for natural sweetness and juiciness.
- Add a touch of cinnamon for warmth and depth of flavor.
- Mix in chopped nuts (like almonds or pecans) for crunch and richness.
- Optional: A sprinkle of nutmeg to enhance the peachy goodness.
Topping Ideas
Elevate your baked oats with a world of creative toppings that add texture, flavor, and visual appeal. From crunchy to creamy, the possibilities are endless. Experiment with a variety of toppings to tailor your baked oats to your taste, turning each bite into a delightful surprise.
Whether you prefer a burst of sweetness, a hint of savory, or a mix of both, the choice of toppings can transform your baked oats into perfection.
Fresh Fruits: Elevate your dish with a medley of fresh berries, sliced peaches, or chopped mangoes.
Greek Yogurt: A dollop of creamy Greek yogurt adds a tangy contrast that complements the sweetness of the oatmeal.
Nuts and Seeds: Sprinkle additional chopped nuts or a handful of seeds like chia or flax for extra texture and nutrition.
Drizzle: A swirl of honey, maple syrup, or even a nut butter drizzle can take your baked oatmeal to the next level.
Spices: Dust with a touch of extra cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom for an aromatic flair.
Chocolate: For a decadent treat, sprinkle dark chocolate chips on top before baking for a melty, indulgent addition.
Storage and Make Ahead
Storage: After baking, let the baked oats cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven as needed.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the baked oats mixture the night before, cover, and refrigerate. In the morning, simply bake and add toppings for a quick and delicious breakfast.
📖 Recipe
Baked Oatmeal with No Sugar
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ cup walnuts , ground or smashed into small pieces
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons butter , melted
- 2 bananas , very ripe, smashed (can have some small chunks)
- 1.5 cups low fat milk or plan almond milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- extra banana slices and nuts for topping optional for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190°C).
- In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the dry ingredients: oatmeal, cinnamon, nuts, baking powder, and salt
- In another bowl, combine the remaining ingredients: egg, melted butter, ripe banana, milk, and a touch of vanilla.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and give it a good stir for about a minute until everything is well combined.
- Grease a compact 8x8 casserole dish to prevent sticking, then transfer the mixture into the dish.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for around 20 to 25 minutes. You'll know it's ready when it's lightly golden and set.
- After baking, let it cool for approximately 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve your baked oatmeal with extra fruit as a delightful topping.
Mary M. Martinez says
It was delicious – thank you!
urooj says
Hi marie!
If I make a big batch of this, will it refrigerate well for 5 days?? Because my hubby doesn't eat oats and therefore I will be left with a big dish of baked oats! But since I have ripe bananas which are going to be spoiled tomorrow l wanted to make something out of it LOL
Thanks!
Marie says
I'm not sure really because ours goes fast! I'd say at least a few days but you can try to freeze some if you have extra.
Darlene says
This recipe was absolutely delicious. When it came out of the oven, I took a spoonful and I was in heaven.....Oatmeal? OMG- it as more like banana bread pudding. This is a great easy recipe that can easily make a great holiday breakfast or brunch with friends, Serve with fresh fruit and you have a delicious meal that is sure to please.
Marie says
Thanks, Darlene! I love it too! Definitely one of my favorites! I agree that it tastes more like a dessert even without the sugar, which is always a good thing.