This Healthy Zucchini Blueberry Baked Oatmeal is a tasty way to start your day! It’s packed with wholesome oats, fresh zucchini, and juicy blueberries that burst with flavor.
Who knew zucchini could be a breakfast buddy? It adds moisture and sneaks in some veggies. I love having this warm out of the oven, topped with a splash of milk or a dollop of yogurt!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats are perfect for this recipe. They give a great texture. Quick oats can work too, but the outcome may be softer.
Almond Milk: Unsweetened almond milk keeps this dish light. If you prefer, any milk (dairy or plant-based) will do! Even coconut milk adds a nice flavor.
Maple Syrup or Honey: I love using pure maple syrup for its rich taste. If you’re looking for a sugar-free option, consider using stevia or agave syrup.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is the star here! Grating it adds moisture and nutrients. You can substitute with shredded carrots for a different flavor.
Blueberries: Fresh blueberries burst with juice and sweetness. Frozen blueberries work too; just don’t thaw them first to avoid extra moisture.
How Do I Make Sure My Baked Oatmeal Sets Properly?
A common concern is getting the right consistency. Here are some tips to ensure your oatmeal bakes perfectly:
- Make sure to mix the wet and dry ingredients well to avoid clumps.
- Don’t skip the baking powder. It helps with rising and gives a nice fluffy texture.
- Once baked, let it sit for at least 5 minutes before serving. This will help it firm up a bit more!
Healthy Zucchini Blueberry Baked Oatmeal
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Oats: 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- Baking Powder: 1 1/2 teaspoons
- Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
- Milk: 1 1/2 cups unsweetened almond milk (or any milk of choice)
- Sweetener: 1/4 cup pure maple syrup or honey
- Egg: 1 large egg
- Vanilla: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zucchini: 1 1/2 cups grated (about 1 medium zucchini)
- Blueberries: 1 cup fresh or frozen
- Optional toppings: 1/4 cup chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts or pecans)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 35-40 minutes to bake. Overall, you should plan for about 50 minutes from start to finish, which is perfect for a cozy weekend breakfast or meal prep for the week ahead!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. This will form the flavorful base of your baked oatmeal.
3. Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond milk, maple syrup (or honey), large egg, and vanilla extract. Blend until everything is well combined and smooth.
4. Combine with Zucchini and Blueberries:
Next, gently fold in the grated zucchini and blueberries into the wet mixture. This adds moisture, flavor, and a nutritional boost!
5. Mix It All Together:
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir them together until everything is well combined—don’t worry if it looks a little thick; that’s normal!
6. Pour and Spread:
Transfer the oatmeal mixture into your greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. If you like, sprinkle your chopped nuts on top for an extra crunch!
7. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes. You want the top to be golden and the oatmeal to be set but still soft in the center.
8. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will help it firm up a bit more. Slice into squares and serve warm!
9. Enjoy!
Enjoy your Healthy Zucchini Blueberry Baked Oatmeal warm, perhaps with a splash of milk or a dollop of yogurt on top. It’s a deliciously healthy breakfast packed with wholesomeness!
Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats, but keep in mind that they will create a softer texture. Rolled oats give more structure to the baked oatmeal, so if you prefer a chewier bite, stick with old-fashioned rolled oats.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply warm individual portions in the microwave or in a preheated oven until heated through. Adding a splash of milk can help restore moisture.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! To make this baked oatmeal vegan, just substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water, let sit for a few minutes to thicken) and ensure you use plant-based milk and maple syrup.
What Can I Substitute for Zucchini?
If you don’t have zucchini on hand, shredded carrots or mashed bananas work well too! Just note that using bananas will change the flavor slightly, making it sweeter.
Feel free to ask if you have more questions! Enjoy your baking!
