Strawberry Almond Baked Oatmeal: A Wholesome, Flavorful Breakfast
Enjoy tender grains topped with crunchy nuts and sweet fruit for a satisfying start.
Strawberry Almond Baked Oatmeal Recipe
Strawberry almond baked oatmeal brings together the comforting familiarity of oats, the nutty crunch of almonds, and bursts of sweet, fresh strawberries. Perfect as a make-ahead breakfast or a crowd-pleasing brunch centerpiece, this dish prioritizes both flavor and convenience. With a few simple tricks, you can amplify strawberry flavor and ensure a moist, tender texture in every bite.
Why Choose Baked Oatmeal?
- Nutrition: Oats are loaded with fiber and essential nutrients, while strawberries and almonds contribute vitamin C and heart-healthy fats.
- Convenience: Prep ahead and reheat throughout the week for easy, hearty breakfasts.
- Crowd Appeal: Easy to scale, customize, and serve for gatherings or family meals.
Ingredient Spotlight
Each element of this baked oatmeal is selected for maximum flavor and texture:
| Ingredient | Role |
|---|---|
| Strawberries | Bring juicy sweetness and vibrant color |
| Oats | Form the hearty, fibrous base |
| Almonds (slivered/sliced) | Add nutty crunch and subtle aroma |
| Brown Sugar | Deepens sweetness and caramel notes |
| Eggs | Bind the dish and add richness |
| Milk (or plant-based milk) | Moistens and tenderizes the oats |
| Butter (or oil) | Adds flavor and moisture |
| Almond Extract | Enhances almond aroma |
| Baking Powder | Ensures a light, cake-like texture |
| Salt | Balances and enhances flavors |
Maximizing Strawberry Flavor: The Secret Technique
This recipe’s core strength lies in extracting as much strawberry essence as possible. Dicing half of the fresh strawberries and macerating them with brown sugar creates a naturally sweet syrup that enhances both flavor and tenderness. The juices, released during this brief rest, are added into the oatmeal mix, elevating every bite with concentrated berry taste.
Sliced strawberries layered on top caramelize gently in the oven, retaining shape and adding visual appeal.
Step-by-Step Preparation
- Step 1: Prep the pan & oven.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 7×11-inch baking dish (or a similar size) with cooking spray or butter for easy serving and cleanup. - Step 2: Macerate strawberries.
Wash and stem your strawberries. Dice half and stir with 2 tablespoons of brown sugar. Let them sit for 10 minutes; this process draws out their juices and intensifies sweetness. - Step 3: Prepare wet mixture.
Whisk together eggs and melted butter until smooth. Add milk (or almond/plant-based milk), almond extract, and the remaining brown sugar. Incorporate well. - Step 4: Layer dry ingredients.
Spread oats evenly in the baking dish. Sprinkle over baking powder and salt, mixing gently to distribute. - Step 5: Combine mixtures.
Pour the wet ingredients over the oats, stir gently until combined. Dollop the macerated diced strawberries, with their juices, across the surface, lightly pressing into the oats. - Step 6: Add almonds and sliced strawberries.
Scatter slivered or sliced almonds over the top, followed by the remaining sliced strawberries. - Step 7: Bake.
Bake until the oatmeal is set, bubbly at the edges, and the strawberries are tender—typically 30–40 minutes. A toothpick should come out clean from the center. - Step 8: Rest and Serve.
Allow baked oatmeal to rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Nutritional Benefits & Dietary Options
Baked oatmeal not only satisfies cravings but also provides sustained energy from its balance of carbs, healthy fats, and protein. For dairy-free or vegan versions, swap:
- Dairy milk → almond milk, oat milk, or other non-dairy alternatives.
- Butter → coconut oil, vegan margarine, or neutral vegetable oil.
- Eggs → flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water per egg).
Nutrition Table (Per Serving Approximation)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~250–350 |
| Protein | 7–10g |
| Fiber | 4–6g |
| Sugars | 10–15g |
| Fat | 9–12g |
(Values will vary depending on portion size and specific ingredients used.)
Customization Ideas
- Fruit Variations: Swap strawberries for blueberries, raspberries, or a medley of your favorite berries.
- Nut Butters: Swirl in almond or peanut butter before baking for extra richness.
- Spices: Enhance with cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom for a deeper flavor profile.
- Sweeteners: Use honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar as alternatives to brown sugar.
- Toppings: Serve with yogurt, whipped cream, or a drizzle of jam.
- Gluten-Free: Choose certified gluten-free oats if needed.
Serving Suggestions
- Warm and Fresh: Serve hot straight from the oven, ideally topped with a little extra milk or cream.
- Brunch Presentation: For parties, brush the top strawberries with a blend of jam and water right after baking for shine and enhanced color.
- Portable Option: Cut into squares and chill; enjoy cold or reheat for a grab-and-go snack.
What others are reading
Perfect Pairings:
- Greek yogurt (adds protein and tang)
- Fresh fruit salad
- Smoothies
- Coffee or herbal tea
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can baked oatmeal be frozen?
A: Yes. Cool completely, slice, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat in the microwave or oven.
Q: How long does baked oatmeal last?
A: Store in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions as needed.
Q: Can I use other berries or nuts?
A: Absolutely. The recipe is highly forgiving—try blueberries, raspberries, pecans, or walnuts for variety.
Q: Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
A: Yes. Use non-dairy milk, swap melted butter for oil, and replace eggs with flax eggs.
Q: Should I use quick oats or old-fashioned rolled oats?
A: Old-fashioned rolled oats offer the best texture; quick oats may result in a mushier consistency.
Recipe Card
Description
Strawberry almond baked oatmeal is a delicious, nourishing breakfast casserole built for sharing. Creamy oats, sweet strawberries, and crunchy almonds come together in every forkful.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. fresh strawberries, divided
- 6 Tbsp. light brown sugar, divided
- 2 large eggs
- 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter, melted (or vegetable oil)
- 1 1/2 cups milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1 tsp. almond extract
- 2 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 tsp. baking powder
- 1/4 tsp. table salt
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds
- Powdered sugar, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly coat a 7×11-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Wash & stem strawberries. Dice half, sprinkle with 2 Tbsp. brown sugar, and macerate for 10 minutes. Slice the rest and set aside.
- In a bowl, whisk eggs and melted butter. Add milk, almond extract, and remaining brown sugar, whisk until combined.
- Place oats in baking dish; sprinkle with baking powder and salt, stir to combine.
- Pour wet mixture over oats, mix gently.
- Spread macerated diced strawberries and juices over oat mixture, press lightly. Top with almonds and sliced strawberries.
- Bake 30–40 minutes, until set and golden. Toothpick should come out clean.
- Let rest 10 minutes before serving. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar.
More Breakfast Inspiration
- Nutella Muffins: Decadent, chocolate-hazelnut morning treats.
- Gluten-Free Blackberry Muffins: Light, fruity, and flourless.
- Pumpkin Pie Baked Oatmeal: Cozy autumn flavors with warming spices.
- Banana Chocolate Chunk Muffins: Perfectly moist and satisfying with pockets of chocolate.
Dinner Ideas for Tonight
- Spicy Black Bean Tacos
- Lemon-Herb Roasted Chicken
- Vegetable Stir-Fry
- Creamy Tomato Pasta
Tips & Tricks for the Best Baked Oatmeal
- Color & Shine: Brush freshly baked oatmeal with a mix of strawberry jam and water for glossy, vibrant topping.
- Texture Control: Avoid overmixing strawberries into oats to maintain distinct berry pockets and prevent pink discoloration.
- Personalization: Adjust sweetness or spice levels to suit taste. Add vanilla extract for more aroma.
- Make Ahead: Bake ahead and reheat by the serving; excellent for meal prep.
- Multi-Purpose: Enjoy leftovers as a snack or light dessert.
Conclusion
Strawberry almond baked oatmeal is more than just a breakfast—it’s an invitation to reinvent your morning routine. With minimal effort and basic ingredients, you can create a filling, nutritious dish brimming with fresh berry flavor. Personalize it, share it, and savor every bite.
References
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