Lemon Blueberry Baked Oatmeal is the perfect breakfast option that combines the tangy zest of lemon with the sweetness of blueberries, creating a vibrant, wholesome dish. It's packed with fiber, vitamins, and natural sweetness, making it an ideal start to your day. The simple preparation and comforting, warm texture make this baked oatmeal both nourishing and delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Lemon Blueberry Baked Oatmeal is a fantastic way to enjoy a nutritious and satisfying breakfast. The combination of zesty lemon and juicy blueberries adds a fresh twist to the traditional oatmeal. It’s not only packed with fiber, but it’s also made with wholesome, plant-based ingredients that provide lasting energy throughout the morning. Plus, it’s an easy-to-make dish, perfect for meal prep. Whether you enjoy it as a quick weekday breakfast or a weekend treat, this baked oatmeal will soon become a family favorite!
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup
- ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
Directions
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Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8x8-inch baking dish and set it aside.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, chia seeds, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until the dry ingredients are well mixed.
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Add Wet Ingredients: To the dry mixture, add the almond milk, maple syrup, applesauce, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
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Fold in Blueberries: Gently fold in the blueberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
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Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
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Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the oatmeal is set.
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Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm, optionally topped with additional fresh blueberries or a drizzle of maple syrup.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6 servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
Variations
- Add-ins: Feel free to add nuts like chopped walnuts or almonds for an extra crunch. You can also mix in a handful of seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for more texture.
- Sweeteners: If you prefer a sweeter oatmeal, add more maple syrup or substitute with agave nectar, honey, or a sugar substitute.
- Fruit: If you don't have blueberries, feel free to swap them for raspberries, blackberries, or even chopped strawberries. The lemon pairs well with any berry!
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, simply microwave individual servings for 30-60 seconds, or heat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen blueberries will work just as well as fresh. Just fold them in gently to prevent them from breaking apart.
Can I use regular milk instead of almond milk?
Absolutely! You can use any milk of your choice, including cow's milk or oat milk.
Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe is vegan-friendly as it uses plant-based milk, applesauce, and maple syrup.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use certified gluten-free oats.
How can I make this recipe sweeter?
You can add more maple syrup or use a different sweetener like agave nectar or brown sugar to increase the sweetness.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this dish is great for meal prep. You can prepare it the night before and store it in the fridge to bake the next morning.
Can I add protein powder to the recipe?
Yes, you can add protein powder for an extra boost. Just be sure to adjust the amount of liquid to maintain the right consistency.
Can I freeze this oatmeal?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers. Just allow it to cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, simply microwave or bake in the oven.
How do I know when the oatmeal is done?
The oatmeal is done when the top is golden and firm to the touch, and the center is set. If it’s still jiggly, bake it for a few more minutes.
Can I substitute the chia seeds?
Yes, you can replace chia seeds with flax seeds or even omit them if you prefer.
Conclusion
This Lemon Blueberry Baked Oatmeal is a delicious and healthy breakfast option that’s easy to make, full of vibrant flavors, and perfect for any day of the week. With its natural sweetness from blueberries and maple syrup, combined with the refreshing zing of lemon, it’s sure to brighten your mornings. Whether you're looking for a quick meal prep idea or something to enjoy with your family, this baked oatmeal will keep you feeling satisfied and nourished. Enjoy every bite!
Lemon Blueberry Baked Oatmeal
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Lemon Blueberry Baked Oatmeal is a vibrant and wholesome breakfast combining tangy lemon and sweet blueberries. Packed with fiber and vitamins, this dish is perfect for a nutritious start to your day. It’s vegan, gluten-free (with certified oats), and a great option for meal prep. Easy to make and delicious, it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup
- ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
Instructions
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8x8-inch baking dish and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix rolled oats, chia seeds, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- Add almond milk, maple syrup, applesauce, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the dry ingredients. Stir until fully combined.
- Gently fold in blueberries, ensuring even distribution throughout the mixture.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the oatmeal is set.
- Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm, optionally topped with extra blueberries or maple syrup.
Notes
- Add-ins: You can add chopped walnuts, almonds, or pumpkin seeds for crunch.
- Sweeteners: Adjust sweetness by adding more maple syrup or using a different sweetener.
- Fruit: Swap blueberries for other berries like raspberries or strawberries.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
