This healthy baked oatmeal is packed with nutritious zucchini and sweet blueberries. It’s perfect for breakfast and super easy to make. Just mix, bake, and enjoy!
I love having this as a morning treat! It’s like a warm hug in a bowl. You can also cut it into squares for a grab-and-go snack. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These are the base of the oatmeal. If you don’t have rolled oats, quick oats can work but might yield a softer texture. Steel-cut oats are not a good substitute, as they need longer cooking times.
Zucchini: Freshly grated zucchini adds moisture and nutrients. No zucchini? You could use shredded carrots or apples instead, which also provide natural sweetness.
Blueberries: Fresh blueberries are great for this recipe, but frozen ones work too—just toss them in without thawing to prevent extra moisture. If you don’t have blueberries, try raspberries or chopped strawberries!
Milk: Use any type of milk you prefer! Almond, soy, and oat milk all work well. For a richer flavor, try using coconut milk.
Sweetener: Maple syrup or honey gives a nice sweetness. If you want a sugar-free option, consider using mashed bananas or a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit.
How Do You Properly Prepare Zucchini for This Recipe?
To get your zucchini just right, start with a medium-sized zucchini. Grate it using a box grater or food processor. After grating, it’s important to squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. This step ensures your baked oatmeal isn’t too watery.
- Grate the zucchini, then place it in a towel.
- Twist the towel to wring out as much liquid as possible.
- Measure out 1 cup of the squeezed zucchini for your recipe.
This technique keeps the baked oatmeal from becoming soggy and helps achieve a lovely texture throughout. Happy baking!
Healthy Zucchini Blueberry Baked Oatmeal
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Base:
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp salt
- For the Wet Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup maple syrup or honey
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- For the Add-ins:
- 1 cup grated zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini, squeezed to remove excess moisture)
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
- ¼ cup chopped nuts (optional, such as walnuts or pecans)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes for preparation and 40-45 minutes for baking. In total, you’ll spend around 1 hour for a delicious and healthy breakfast or snack that you can enjoy warm or later in the day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with your choice of cooking spray or oil so your oatmeal won’t stick.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir the dry ingredients together until they are well mixed.
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract until everything is fully combined and you have a smooth mixture.
4. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients:
Carefully fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. Be gentle to avoid overmixing.
5. Add Zucchini and Blueberries:
Next, gently fold in the grated zucchini and blueberries. Ensure they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6. Pour and Prepare for Baking:
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula. If you’re using nuts, sprinkle them on top for added crunch.
7. Bake:
Put the dish in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. The top should be golden brown, and you can check if it’s done by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
8. Cool and Serve:
Let the baked oatmeal cool for about 10 minutes before cutting it into squares. You can enjoy it warm or at room temperature. It’s delicious as is or with a dollop of yogurt on top!
This healthy baked oatmeal is not only filling but also a fantastic way to enjoy veggies without having to compromise on taste. Perfect for breakfast or a snack throughout the day! Enjoy! 🌟
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Other Fruits in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While blueberries are a delicious choice, you can easily swap them out for other berries like raspberries or strawberries. You could also use chopped apples or bananas for a different flavor profile!
Is It Possible to Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! To make it vegan, you can substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg) and use plant-based milk. Maple syrup is already vegan, so you’re good to go!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover baked oatmeal in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Can I Freeze Baked Oatmeal?
Yes, you can freeze baked oatmeal! Cut it into squares and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer bag. It will keep well for about 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat.
