Are you tired of the same old breakfast routine? Craving something warm, comforting, and packed with protein to keep you full and energized throughout the morning? Then look no further! This baked protein oatmeal recipe is your new go-to for a healthy and delicious start to your day (or even a surprisingly satisfying dessert!). It’s incredibly easy to make, customizable to your taste, and perfect for meal prepping. Say goodbye to boring breakfasts and hello to a flavour explosion!
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups rolled oats (not instant)
- 2 scoops protein powder (vanilla or unflavored works best) – Adjust to your desired protein level.
- 2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 cup water
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey, to taste)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Optional toppings: Fresh berries, nuts, seeds, chocolate chips, shredded coconut
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a small baking dish (approximately 8x8 inches) or individual ramekins. This simple step ensures easy cleanup and perfectly baked oatmeal.
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Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, water, eggs, Greek yogurt, and maple syrup until well combined. This creates a creamy base for your baked oatmeal.
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Add Dry Ingredients: Add the rolled oats, protein powder, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt to the wet ingredients. Stir gently until everything is just combined. Don't overmix; a few lumps are okay.
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Pour & Bake: Pour the oatmeal mixture into your prepared baking dish. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the oatmeal is set and lightly golden brown on top. Check for doneness with a toothpick – it should come out clean.
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Cool & Top: Let the baked oatmeal cool slightly before adding your favorite toppings. Fresh berries add a burst of sweetness and antioxidants, while nuts and seeds provide healthy fats and extra crunch.
Tips for the Best Baked Protein Oatmeal:
- Protein Powder Choice: Experiment with different protein powders to find your favorite flavor combination. Vanilla and unflavored work best as they won't overpower the other ingredients.
- Sweetener Adjustment: Adjust the amount of maple syrup or honey to your liking. You can also use other sweeteners like stevia or erythritol.
- Milk Alternatives: Almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk are all great alternatives to dairy milk.
- Make it Ahead: This baked oatmeal is perfect for meal prepping. Make a large batch on the weekend and enjoy it throughout the week for a quick and easy breakfast. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven.
Variations:
- Fruity Delight: Add ½ cup of chopped fruit (like blueberries, bananas, or apples) to the batter before baking.
- Chocolate Chunk Heaven: Stir in ½ cup of chocolate chips for a decadent treat.
- Spiced Up: Add a dash of nutmeg or ginger for a warming twist.
- Nutty Goodness: Mix in ½ cup of chopped nuts (like walnuts, pecans, or almonds) for added protein and crunch.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the ingredients you use. However, a typical serving will provide approximately:
- Calories: 300-400
- Protein: 25-35g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
- Fat: 8-12g
This baked protein oatmeal is a versatile and delicious way to start your day, offering a healthy and satisfying breakfast that will keep you full and energized. It's a simple recipe that’s perfect for busy mornings, and the customizable options mean you can always create a new and exciting flavour combination. Enjoy!