these delightful little treats. Think of a well-balanced breakfast or snack. How about a side of fresh fruit? It adds a pop of color and vibrant flavor to your dish. A simple fruit salad can be refreshing, especially when combined with seasonal berries or a splash of citrus.
Another great option is a dollop of yogurt on the side. Not only does it provide a creamy contrast to the chewy oatmeal cups, but it’s also a fantastic source of protein. Greek yogurt, in particular, can really amp up the flavor profile.
If you’re in the mood for something warm, consider a cup of coffee or tea. The comforting aroma and warmth of your favorite beverage can elevate the entire experience. So, grab your favorite mug and let’s dig into the recipe for baked oatmeal cups.
What is Baked Oatmeal Cups Recipe?
Baked oatmeal cups are individual portions of baked oatmeal, often made in muffin tins. They offer the delightful texture of traditional baked oatmeal but with a fun, portable twist! This dish is a healthy alternative to sugary breakfast bars or processed snacks.
You can enjoy them as a quick breakfast, a snack, or even a dessert! These little cups are not just easy to prepare; they also keep well for days, making them a great item for meal prepping.
Why This Recipe Works?
This recipe stands out for several excellent reasons.
Versatility in Ingredients:
You can customize baked oatmeal cups based on what’s in your pantry or fridge. Whether you have ripe bananas, apples, or a mix of dried fruits, you can mix and match to create your masterpiece.
Nutrition Packed:
Oats are a great source of fiber, which can help keep you full longer. When you combine them with fruits, nuts, or seeds, you’re adding even more nutrients to your meal. Each cup can be a powerhouse of good-for-you ingredients.
Easy to Make Ahead:
These cups can be prepared in advance and stored. This means less morning chaos! Just pop them in the microwave for a quick, nourishing breakfast, and you’re good to go.
Kid-Friendly:
Baked oatmeal cups are a fantastic way to get kids involved in the kitchen. They can help choose their mix-ins and learn valuable cooking skills while having fun. Plus, they’re far more appealing to kids than a bowl of regular oatmeal.
Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Dish
To whip up a batch of these yummy baked oatmeal cups, gather the following ingredients:
¼ teaspoon sea salt: This balances the flavors beautifully.
1 ½ cups milk of your choice: Almond, soy, or good old cow’s milk—use what you love.
1 large egg, beaten: This helps bind everything together.
2 ½ cups old-fashioned rolled oats: These are the star of the show.
½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and enhances sweetness.
¼ cup pure maple syrup or honey: For natural sweetness.
Optional mix-ins (choose your favorites):
Finely chopped apples or ripe bananas
Fresh or frozen berries
A swirl of natural peanut butter
Chopped walnuts or pecans
Dried cranberries or raisins
Mini dark chocolate chips
Ground cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra touch of warmth
How To Make This Baked Oatmeal Cups Recipe?
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial, as you want the oven hot and ready to bake your delicious cups.
Step 2: Prepare Your Muffin Tin
Lightly grease your muffin tin with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper. Trust me, you want to make sure these cups come out easily!
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, beaten egg, vanilla extract, and maple syrup (or honey). Make sure everything is well combined.
Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, combine the rolled oats, sea salt, and any spices you’re using (like cinnamon). This allows the flavors to mingle before combining with the wet ingredients.
Step 5: Combine Everything Together
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredient bowl. Stir until well combined, making sure all the oats are covered. If you’re using mix-ins like chopped fruit or nuts, fold them in gently.
Step 6: Scoop into Muffin Tin
Use a scoop or spoon to evenly distribute the oatmeal mixture into your prepared muffin tin. Fill each cup about three-quarters full.
Step 7: Bake Away!
Place your muffin tin in the preheated oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, let them cool for a few minutes before removing them from the tin. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Tips & Tricks
To maximize the deliciousness of your baked oatmeal cups, consider these handy tips:
Customize the Sweetness: Adjust the amount of maple syrup or honey based on your preference. Remember that the fruits you add can also add sweetness.
Check for Doneness: Everyone’s oven is different. So keep an eye on your cups as they bake. You want them firm and golden, not overdone.
Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just enough for everything to be moistened. Overmixing can lead to dense cups.
Experiment with Flavors: Try adding various spices like nutmeg or pumpkin spice for different flavor profiles. Just a pinch can transform your dish!
Use Silpat Mats: If you love your baked goods to slide right out, consider using Silpat mats or parchment paper liners to prevent sticking.
Nutrition Information
Each baked oatmeal cup comes packed with wholesome goodness. Here’s a rough breakdown of the nutrition information per cup (based on ingredients mentioned):
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 4g
- Fats: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g (without added sweeteners)
How Do You Store The Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, you can store your baked oatmeal cups easily. Allow them to cool fully and then place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the fridge for up to five days.
For longer storage, you can freeze them. Wrap each cup in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They will keep for about three months. To enjoy them later, simply reheat in the microwave or oven.
What Sides Would Complement Baked Oatmeal Cups?
Here are some great sides to serve alongside your baked oatmeal cups:
Fresh Fruit Salad:
A mix of seasonal fruits can add a burst of freshness and vibrant color to your meal. Watermelon, berries, and citrus fruits work beautifully together.
Greek Yogurt with Honey:
A dollop of creamy Greek yogurt accompanied by a drizzle of honey can balance out the sweetness of the oatmeal cups. This combination provides protein and probiotics.
Classic Smoothie:
Whip up your favorite smoothie using spinach, banana, and almond milk, for example. This can provide a refreshing drink that rounds out your meal.
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients If They Are Not Present in Your Kitchen?
Sometimes you find yourself lacking an ingredient. Here’s how to substitute for a few common ones:
Milk Substitute:
If you don’t have milk, you can use unsweetened almond milk, oat milk, or even water. Each will alter the taste slightly, but they will still provide moisture.
Eggs Alternative:
For a vegan version, use 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with three tablespoons of water as an egg replacement. It will help bind the mixture together.
Sweetener Options:
If you’re out of maple syrup or honey, brown sugar or agave nectar can do the trick. You might need to adjust the quantity based on the type of sweetener used.
Rolled Oats Switch:
In a pinch, quick oats can substitute for rolled oats, but the texture will be different. They may result in softer cups, which can still be delightful.
Conclusion
Baked oatmeal cups are more than just a breakfast option. They are a canvas for creativity, a health-conscious choice, and a fantastic grab-and-go meal. This recipe is excellent for busy mornings or those lazy weekend brunches where you want something tasty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
With easy-to-find ingredients and simple steps, you can whip these up in no time. So, gather your mix-ins, preheat that oven, and indulge in some homemade comfort food that’s good for the body and soul. Enjoy every bite.
Trust me; once you try these oatmeal cups, they will become a staple in your household. Happy baking!
You’ll also like the following recipes!
Baked Oatmeal Cups – Simple Easy Meals
Baked oatmeal cups might sound like a fancy breakfast item from a trendy café, but let me assure you—they’re incredibly simple and oh-so-delicious! Imagine waking up to a warm, cozy kitchen filled with the smell of baking oats, sweet maple syrup, and vanilla. These cups are comfort food at its finest and perfect for meal prep.
I stumbled upon this recipe during a busy week when I needed something nutritious yet easy to grab on my way out. Unlike traditional oatmeal that gets mushy, these baked delights hold their shape wonderfully. Plus, they are flexible—the options for mix-ins are endless. Whether you're into fruits, nuts, or even a bit of chocolate, there’s room for creativity.
I’ve since made dozens of variations, each one more delicious than the last. So, let's get to it!
Ingredients
Optional Mix-ins (choose your favorites):
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
-
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial, as you want the oven hot and ready to bake your delicious cups.
Step 2: Prepare Your Muffin Tin
-
Lightly grease your muffin tin with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper. Trust me, you want to make sure these cups come out easily!
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
-
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, beaten egg, vanilla extract, and maple syrup (or honey). Make sure everything is well combined.
Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients
-
In another bowl, combine the rolled oats, sea salt, and any spices you’re using (like cinnamon). This allows the flavors to mingle before combining with the wet ingredients.
Step 5: Combine Everything Together
-
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredient bowl. Stir until well combined, making sure all the oats are covered. If you’re using mix-ins like chopped fruit or nuts, fold them in gently.
Step 6: Scoop into Muffin Tin
-
Use a scoop or spoon to evenly distribute the oatmeal mixture into your prepared muffin tin. Fill each cup about three-quarters full.
Step 7: Bake Away!
-
Place your muffin tin in the preheated oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
-
Once baked, let them cool for a few minutes before removing them from the tin. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 12
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 120kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 3g5%
- Total Carbohydrate 20g7%
- Dietary Fiber 3g12%
- Sugars 4g
- Protein 4g8%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Customize the Sweetness: Adjust the amount of maple syrup or honey based on your preference. Remember that the fruits you add can also add sweetness.
- Check for Doneness: Everyone’s oven is different. So keep an eye on your cups as they bake. You want them firm and golden, not overdone.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just enough for everything to be moistened. Overmixing can lead to dense cups.
- Experiment with Flavors: Try adding various spices like nutmeg or pumpkin spice for different flavor profiles. Just a pinch can transform your dish!
- Use Silpat Mats: If you love your baked goods to slide right out, consider using Silpat mats or parchment paper liners to prevent sticking.
