Linda CainPicture this: a cozy kitchen filled with the aroma of baked steel cut oatmeal wafting through the air. Now, let’s talk about what to pair with this dish. Fresh fruits are a must. Think of juicy strawberries, ripe blueberries, or even bananas.
Their natural sweetness complements the hearty texture of the oatmeal beautifully. For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, nuts can be a fantastic addition. Almonds, walnuts, or pecans sprinkled on top add a delightful contrast.
Why stop there? If you want a touch of indulgence, consider drizzling some honey or maple syrup over the oatmeal. A dollop of Greek yogurt can introduce creaminess, making each bite even more satisfying. If you’re in the mood for a bit of spice, cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the flavor profile.
Feeling adventurous? How about pairing it with a side of crispy bacon or turkey sausage? The salty crunch balances the dish’s wholesome sweetness perfectly.
Now, let’s jump into the world of baked steel cut oatmeal!
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Steel cut oats, often hailed as the healthiest type of oatmeal, bring a unique chewiness and a nutty flavor. But wait, have you ever tried baking them? Trust me, it’s a game changer. When you bake steel cut oatmeal, you don’t just cook it; you transform it into a delightful, custardy dish that is perfect for breakfast or dessert. The convenience of making a big batch means you’ll have breakfast ready for several days, making it ideal for busy mornings.
Even better, baked steel cut oatmeal is versatile. You can adapt it to your taste preferences or dietary needs. Today, I’ll be sharing a recipe that I’ve perfected over the years, alongside tips, tricks, and a few surprises that will make your oatmeal experience extraordinary.
What is Baked Steel Cut Oatmeal?
Baked steel cut oatmeal is exactly what it sounds like: steel cut oats baked in the oven. This method differs significantly from traditional stovetop oatmeal. Steel cut oats, unlike instant or rolled oats, are less processed and retain their nutrients and fiber, providing a hearty texture.
When baked, these oats absorb liquid, fluffing up and creating a satisfying dish that can be sliced and served. The result? A warm, deliciously sweet treat that makes mornings that much brighter.
What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Baked Steel Cut Oatmeal?
What sets my baked steel cut oatmeal apart? Firstly, it incorporates fresh ingredients that provide natural sweetness and depth of flavor. For instance, the ripe banana in the recipe not only enhances the taste but also adds moisture, creating a rich, custardy texture.
Secondly, I’ve included spices and seeds like cinnamon and chia that elevate the flavor and nutritional profile. These choices ensure your dish is not only tasty, but also brimming with health benefits. Lastly, it’s easy to customize. Want it sweeter? Add another banana or a splash more maple syrup. Prefer a nutty flavor? Toss in extra seeds or chopped nuts. This recipe is as flexible as your palette allows.
How Does It Taste?
If you’re expecting a bland oatmeal experience, think again! The baked steel cut oatmeal has a delightful chewiness, with a crispy top that contrasts beautifully with the soft underbelly. Each bite bursts with the rich flavor of bananas and the warm spice of cinnamon. It’s a dish that satisfies not just hunger but cravings.
Imagine waking up to a warm slice of this goodness alongside a cup of coffee, and you’ll understand why it quickly becomes a breakfast staple.
Ingredients You’ll Need to Make This Dish
To create this heavenly baked steel cut oatmeal, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil: This adds a subtle tropical flavor and moisture.
- 1 ripe banana, mashed: For natural sweetness and creaminess.
- ½ teaspoon freshly grated ginger: Adds a refreshing zing.
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds: For texture and added nutrients.
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts, divided: For crunch.
- 2 cups unsweetened almond milk, at room temperature: The main liquid for creamy oatmeal.
- 1 ripe banana, thinly sliced: More banana love!
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: For that cozy warmth.
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup: Sweetener with a rich flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt: Enhances the overall taste.
- 1 tablespoon hemp seeds: Packed with protein and omegas.
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract: For a delightful aroma and flavor.
- 1 cup steel-cut oats: The star of the show!
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your oatmeal bakes evenly and thoroughly.
Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Grease a baking dish with the melted coconut oil. A 9×9 inch or 2-quart dish works perfectly for this recipe. The oil not only prevents sticking but adds a hint of flavor too.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the steel-cut oats, chia seeds, and ground cinnamon. Warming up these spices will allow their flavors to bloom even further as they bake.
Step 4: Whisk the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond milk, mashed banana, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and grated ginger. Ensure everything is well combined. This mixture brings all the good stuff together into one creamy base.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently. Make sure that everything is incorporated evenly; we want every bite packed with flavor!
Step 6: Add the Chopped Nuts
Gently fold in half of the chopped pecans or walnuts. The nuts will toast beautifully as they bake.
Step 7: Transfer to the Baking Dish
Pour the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with the remaining sliced banana and nuts.
Step 8: Bake
Bake the oatmeal in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Once out of the oven, allow it to cool slightly before slicing into squares. Serve warm with additional toppings if desired, such as fresh fruits or a drizzle of maple syrup.
Tips & Tricks On Making Baked Steel Cut Oatmeal
- Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your oatmeal will be.
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you have a sweet tooth, feel free to add more maple syrup or honey to taste.
- Experiment with Spices: Add nutmeg, cardamom, or even cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist.
- Make it Ahead of Time: This dish keeps well in the fridge for several days. Just reheat slices in the microwave.
- Add Chocolate Chips: For a fun and indulgent touch, mix in some dark chocolate chips or cacao nibs.
Nutrition Information
Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll find in each serving (based on a cut of 9 servings):
- Calories: Approximately 210
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 6g
- Fats: 8g
- Vitamins and Minerals: Rich in potassium, magnesium, and iron.
This dish offers a balanced meal in a single serving—perfect for those mornings when you need energy!
How Do I Store This Dish?
Let the baked steel cut oatmeal cool to room temperature before storing. You can keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the microwave, adding a splash of almond milk if you like it a bit creamier. You can also freeze leftovers. Cut into squares, wrap them tightly, and store them in freezer bags. They will last for about three months.
What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Baked Steel Cut Oatmeal?
Here are some alternatives you may want to consider:
- Coconut Milk: For a richer, creamier texture than almond milk, coconut milk makes an excellent alternative.
- Applesauce: Substitute mashed banana with unsweetened applesauce for a different flavor profile.
- Nut Butters: A spoonful of almond or peanut butter can add creaminess and a nutty taste.
- Dried Fruits: Instead of fresh bananas, try adding raisins, cranberries, or dates for added sweetness.
- Seeds: Substitute chia seeds with flaxseeds for a similar nutrient profile.
Feel free to mix and match to suit your taste!
Baked Steel Cut Oatmeal
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your oatmeal bakes evenly and thoroughly.
- Grease a baking dish with the melted coconut oil. A 9×9 inch or 2-quart dish works perfectly for this recipe. The oil not only prevents sticking but adds a hint of flavor too.
- In a large bowl, combine the steel-cut oats, chia seeds, and ground cinnamon. Warming up these spices will allow their flavors to bloom even further as they bake.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond milk, mashed banana, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and grated ginger. Ensure everything is well combined. This mixture brings all the good stuff together into one creamy base.
- Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently. Make sure that everything is incorporated evenly; we want every bite packed with flavor!
- Gently fold in half of the chopped pecans or walnuts. The nuts will toast beautifully as they bake.
- Pour the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with the remaining sliced banana and nuts.
- Bake the oatmeal in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Once out of the oven, allow it to cool slightly before slicing into squares. Serve warm with additional toppings if desired, such as fresh fruits or a drizzle of maple syrup.
Nutrition
Notes
- Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your oatmeal will be.
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you have a sweet tooth, feel free to add more maple syrup or honey to taste.
- Experiment with Spices: Add nutmeg, cardamom, or even cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist.
- Make it Ahead of Time: This dish keeps well in the fridge for several days. Just reheat slices in the microwave.
- Add Chocolate Chips: For a fun and indulgent touch, mix in some dark chocolate chips or cacao nibs.
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use rolled oats instead of steel cut oats?
Absolutely! Rolled oats will cook faster, so adjust the baking time accordingly. Typically, about 20-25 minutes will suffice when using rolled oats.
2. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe is already vegan if you use plant-based milk and avoid any non-vegan toppings.
3. Is baked steel cut oatmeal gluten-free?
Steel cut oats are naturally gluten-free, but make sure they are certified gluten-free if you have an allergy.
4. Can I double the recipe?
You can double the recipe! Just ensure you use a larger baking dish and increase the baking time slightly, checking for doneness.
5. How can I make it a savory dish?
You can omit the sweeteners and spices, add cooked vegetables, cheese, or herbs to create a savory spin on baked steel cut oatmeal.
Conclusion
Baked steel cut oatmeal is more than just a breakfast dish; it’s a delightful way to embrace health without sacrificing taste. Whether you enjoy it sweet or savory, there’s a version out there for you. Each bite is filled with nutrients, warmth, and the joy of a home-cooked meal. With the ability to prepare it ahead of time, this dish fits perfectly into even the busiest of schedules.
So, the next time you’re yearning for a breakfast that’s both comforting and nourishing, whip up a batch of baked steel cut oatmeal. I promise, you won’t regret it. Armed with the knowledge of this delicious meal, you’ll be ready to impress family and friends alike. Enjoy your culinary journey!
