Baked Protein Oatmeal is a warm, filling dish packed with oats, eggs, and your choice of delicious mix-ins like fruits and nuts. It’s a great way to start your day!
This dish is not just tasty, but also super easy to make. Just mix everything, pop it in the oven, and breakfast is ready! I love enjoying it with a drizzle of honey on top for some extra sweetness!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These are perfect for baked oatmeal because they hold their shape. If you’re out of rolled oats, quick oats can work as a substitute, but they may result in a softer texture.
Protein Powder: Use vanilla for flavor, but unflavored is great too! If you don’t want to use protein powder, you can increase the oats to 1.5 cups and add an extra egg for more protein.
Milk: I like using almond milk for a nutty flavor, but any milk works! For a creamier version, you can use coconut milk. If you need it dairy-free, choose any plant-based option.
Sweetener: Honey and maple syrup are favorites, but if you’re cutting down on sugar, try stevia or monk fruit. Adjust the amount based on your taste.
Fruit: Blueberries are delightful, but feel free to mix in other fruits like bananas or apples. They’ll bring their own sweetness and flavors!
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Texture?
To get that fluffy yet firm texture, make sure not to overmix your batter. Gently combining the wet and dry ingredients will help maintain the right structure. Here are my tips:
- Mix just until combined; a few lumps are okay!
- Don’t skip the baking powder—it’s essential for that rise!
- If using frozen berries, don’t thaw them. Add them straight to the mix to prevent excess moisture.
Let the baked oatmeal cool for a few minutes after baking. This gives it a chance to set and makes serving easier.
How to Make Baked Protein Oatmeal
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Base:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 scoop vanilla or unflavored protein powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- For the Wet Ingredients:
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon sweetener of choice (honey, maple syrup, or agave)
- For the Mix-ins:
- 1/2 cup fresh or frozen blueberries (plus extra for topping)
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter or almond butter (plus extra for drizzling)
- Optional: 3-4 fresh raspberries for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This baked protein oatmeal takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’ll spend around 40 minutes, including prep and cooking time. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that heats up, lightly grease a small square baking dish (about 6×6 inches) or a single-serve oven-safe dish. This will help prevent sticking and make serving easier.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, protein powder, baking powder, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir them together until they’re mixed evenly.
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, vanilla extract, and your choice of sweetener. This is where the magic happens, as the egg will help bind everything together!
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Give it a gentle stir until everything is well mixed—don’t worry if there are a few lumps; that’s okay!
5. Add the Good Stuff:
Gently fold in the blueberries and peanut butter (or almond butter) into the mixture. This adds flavor and makes it super delicious!
6. Prepare for Baking:
Pour your oatmeal batter into the greased baking dish and spread it out evenly. This helps it cook evenly as it bakes.
7. Bake to Perfection:
Put the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. It’s ready when the top is golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and Top:
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This helps it set nicely. Now is the fun part—top your oatmeal with fresh blueberries, raspberries, and a drizzle of extra peanut butter.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Dig in while it’s warm! This baked protein oatmeal is delightful on its own or paired with a side of fresh fruit. Enjoy your yummy, protein-packed meal!
Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats, but they may result in a softer texture. Rolled oats provide a nice chewiness that many prefer in baked oatmeal. If using quick oats, keep an eye on the baking time, as they may cook faster.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of milk to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! To make it vegan, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use plant-based milk. The protein powder can also be a plant-based option!
What Other Mix-ins Can I Use?
Feel free to experiment! You can add chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or other fruits like bananas or apples. Just make sure not to overload it too much to maintain the right consistency.
