Start your day on a healthy and delicious note with this Banana Raspberry Baked Oatmeal! Packed with nutritious ingredients like oats, bananas, raspberries, and a touch of honey, this baked oatmeal is not only wholesome but also easy to prepare. Perfect for busy mornings, it can be made ahead of time and reheated for a quick breakfast or snack. The combination of creamy oats, sweet bananas, and tangy raspberries offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Plus, it’s customizable – add your favorite toppings like nuts or seeds for added crunch and nutrients. Whether you’re serving it warm or cold, this baked oatmeal is sure to satisfy.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 medium bananas, mashed
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup low-fat milk
• 1 cup old-fashioned oats
• A pinch of salt
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1/2 cup raspberries (plus more for topping if desired)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a small amount of butter. This will prevent the oatmeal from sticking to the dish and make for easier serving.

Step 2: Prepare the Mixture

• In a large mixing bowl, mash the 2 medium bananas using a fork or potato masher until smooth and lump-free.
• Add in the 2 eggs, 1 cup of milk, 1 tbsp honey, 1/4 tsp cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Whisk the mixture thoroughly until all the ingredients are well combined. This will ensure a consistent flavor throughout the oatmeal.
• Stir in 1 cup of old-fashioned oats and mix until fully incorporated. The oats will soak up the liquid and give the baked oatmeal its delicious, hearty texture.
• Gently fold in the 1/2 cup of raspberries to the mixture, ensuring they are evenly distributed without mashing them too much. The raspberries will provide a burst of freshness and color in every bite.

Step 3: Bake the Oatmeal

• Pour the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
• Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the oatmeal is set and the top is lightly golden. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are firm, and the center is no longer jiggly.
• Optional: If you like a slightly crispier top, turn on the broiler for the last minute or two of baking to achieve a golden finish.

Step 4: Serve

• Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 minutes. This will help the oatmeal firm up, making it easier to cut and serve.
• Slice the baked oatmeal into squares or bars and serve warm.
• For an extra touch of sweetness and flavor, top with additional fresh raspberries, a drizzle of honey, or even a dollop of Greek yogurt.

Cooking Tips:

• Bananas: Use ripe bananas for this recipe. The riper they are, the sweeter your baked oatmeal will be, which means you may even be able to reduce the honey if desired.
• Raspberries: Fresh raspberries work best, but you can also use frozen raspberries. If using frozen, do not thaw them before adding to the mixture to prevent excess moisture in the dish.
• Oats: For a chewier texture, stick to old-fashioned oats. Quick oats can work but may result in a softer, more cake-like consistency.
• Milk Substitutes: You can easily swap the low-fat milk with your preferred milk substitute, such as almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk.
• Customizations: Feel free to add nuts like chopped almonds or walnuts for an added crunch. You can also sprinkle some chia seeds or flaxseeds for extra fiber and omega-3s.

Storage:

• In the Fridge: Store any leftover baked oatmeal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave for a warm breakfast.
• In the Freezer: You can also freeze baked oatmeal portions for up to 3 months. Wrap each portion in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: Approximately 200 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Protein: 5g
• Total Fat: 5g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 12g (Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on exact measurements and ingredients used.)

FAQs:

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
   • Absolutely! Baked oatmeal is perfect for meal prep. You can bake it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer. Reheat individual portions as needed for a quick and easy breakfast.
2. Can I substitute the raspberries with other fruits?
   • Yes, feel free to substitute with your favorite fruits such as blueberries, strawberries, or diced apples. You can also mix and match different fruits for variety.
3. What can I use instead of honey?
   • You can replace honey with maple syrup, agave syrup, or even a sugar substitute if you prefer a different sweetener.
4. Can I make this recipe vegan?
   • To make this baked oatmeal vegan, substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tbsp water for each egg) and use a plant-based milk like almond or soy milk.
5. How do I know when the oatmeal is done baking?
   • The baked oatmeal is ready when the center is set and no longer jiggly, and the top is lightly golden brown. You can insert a toothpick into the center, and if it comes out clean, it’s ready.

Conclusion:

This Banana Raspberry Baked Oatmeal is a delicious, nutritious, and versatile dish that will quickly become a favorite in your household. With its soft, chewy texture and the natural sweetness of bananas and raspberries, it’s an ideal breakfast or snack that can be enjoyed any time of the day. The simplicity of the ingredients and ease of preparation make it accessible for anyone, even on busy mornings. Plus, with the option to customize the recipe to your liking—whether adding different fruits, nuts, or spices—this baked oatmeal can suit every taste. Prepare it ahead of time, store it for the week, and enjoy a nutritious breakfast in minutes. Give it a try, and you’ll be making it a staple in your kitchen!