Baked Oatmeal Cups Recipe

Baked oatmeal cups are a convenient, healthy, and delicious breakfast option that can be made in advance and enjoyed throughout the week. With the perfect blend of oats, maple syrup, and fresh berries, these individual servings are packed with flavor and nutrients. Whether you’re running late in the morning or need a quick snack, these oatmeal cups make the perfect grab-and-go meal. They’re customizable, making them a great option for families or anyone looking to meal prep their breakfasts. The combination of oats, nuts, and fruit provides a satisfying meal that’s high in fiber and antioxidants, making it a great start to your day. Plus, they’re easy to make and require minimal cleanup. These oatmeal cups are an excellent alternative to store-bought breakfast bars, and they’re a great way to get your daily dose of whole grains and healthy fats. Whether served warm or cold, these baked oatmeal cups are a deliciously wholesome breakfast option for anyone on the go.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These baked oatmeal cups are the perfect balance of healthy ingredients and irresistible flavor. The oats serve as the base, providing fiber and energy to kickstart your day, while the maple syrup adds just the right amount of sweetness. The addition of cinnamon brings warmth and depth of flavor, and the fresh berries give the cups a burst of natural sweetness and antioxidants. With chopped nuts added for crunch and protein, these oatmeal cups are not only tasty but also filling. They’re easy to make in just 35 minutes, and you can customize them with different nuts or fruits to suit your preferences. Best of all, they’re portable and make a perfect meal prep option for busy mornings. Whether you’re looking for a hearty breakfast, a post-workout snack, or a simple on-the-go option, these oatmeal cups will surely become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients

• Rolled oats
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Cinnamon
• Maple syrup
• Milk
• Egg
• Vanilla extract
• Chopped nuts
• Fresh berries

Variations

You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your taste and dietary needs. Here are some variations to try:

Add different fruits

In place of or in addition to berries, you can use other fruits like sliced bananas, chopped apples, or dried fruits like raisins or cranberries.

Make it dairy-free

Substitute the milk with almond milk, coconut milk, or any other non-dairy milk of your choice for a dairy-free version.

Use different sweeteners

If you prefer a different sweetener, try using honey, agave nectar, or coconut sugar instead of maple syrup.

Make it nut-free

For a nut-free option, simply omit the chopped nuts or swap them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a muffin tin or line it with paper liners to prevent the oatmeal cups from sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Stir well to distribute the dry ingredients evenly.

Step 3: Whisk the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, milk, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients and mix until everything is thoroughly combined.

Step 5: Add the Nuts and Berries

Gently fold in the chopped nuts and fresh berries. Be careful not to overmix, as you want the berries to remain intact.

Step 6: Portion into Muffin Cups

Divide the oatmeal mixture evenly among the muffin cups, filling each cup to the top. The mixture should make about 12 oatmeal cups.

Step 7: Bake

Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the oatmeal cups are set and golden brown on top.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the oatmeal cups from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm or store them in an airtight container for later.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use old-fashioned rolled oats: Steel-cut oats or quick oats won’t work well in this recipe. Stick to old-fashioned rolled oats for the right texture.
• Don’t overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, stir until just combined to prevent the oatmeal from becoming too dense.
• Customize the toppings: Feel free to add extra ingredients like coconut flakes, chocolate chips, or a drizzle of nut butter on top before baking.
• Check doneness: If you’re unsure if the oatmeal cups are done, insert a toothpick in the center of one of the cups. It should come out clean when they are fully cooked.

How to Serve

Baked oatmeal cups can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. For extra flavor, try topping them with a dollop of yogurt, nut butter, or a drizzle of honey. They also make an excellent addition to a breakfast spread, paired with scrambled eggs or fresh fruit. If you prefer a sweeter version, consider serving them with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar or whipped cream for a treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To store leftover baked oatmeal cups, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4-5 days. They make for a great make-ahead breakfast option for busy mornings.

Freezing

Baked oatmeal cups freeze well for long-term storage. Once cooled, place them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about an hour, or reheat in the microwave for 30-45 seconds.

Reheating

To reheat oatmeal cups, microwave individual portions for 20-30 seconds or place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes to warm through. For a crispier texture, consider reheating in the oven.

FAQs

1. Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

It’s best to use rolled oats in this recipe, as quick oats will change the texture of the oatmeal cups.

2. Can I make these oatmeal cups without eggs?

Yes, you can replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) for a vegan version.

3. Can I add more sweetener?

Yes, you can adjust the amount of maple syrup according to your preference, or substitute it with honey, agave nectar, or stevia.

4. Are these oatmeal cups gluten-free?

If you use certified gluten-free oats, these oatmeal cups will be gluten-free.

5. Can I use frozen berries?

Yes, frozen berries will work, but make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the mixture to avoid excess moisture.

6. How do I know when the oatmeal cups are done baking?

The oatmeal cups are done when the tops are golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

7. Can I make these oatmeal cups ahead of time?

Yes, these oatmeal cups are great for meal prep. You can prepare them the night before and refrigerate or freeze them for later.

8. Can I use other nuts besides the ones listed in the recipe?

Definitely! You can use walnuts, almonds, or even seeds like chia or sunflower for a different texture and flavor.

9. How should I store the leftovers?

Store leftover oatmeal cups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.

10. Can I use a muffin tin with 6 cups instead of 12?

If you’re using a 6-cup muffin tin, you may need to increase the baking time by a few minutes to ensure they cook through.

Conclusion

Baked oatmeal cups are a fantastic, healthy option for breakfast or a snack, combining the benefits of whole grains, fruits, and nuts in one easy-to-make dish. These portable oatmeal cups are perfect for busy mornings, and their customizable nature makes them suitable for any dietary preference. Whether you make them ahead of time for meal prep or whip them up for a quick breakfast, these oatmeal cups will quickly become a favorite in your household. With their delicious flavor, satisfying texture, and healthful ingredients, they’re sure to keep you energized throughout the day.

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