Baked Oatmeal Cups Recipe
If you’re searching for a breakfast that’s wholesome, cozy, and wonderfully easy to make ahead, these Baked Oatmeal Cups are about to become your new go-to. Imagine the hearty soul of classic oatmeal, transformed into portable muffin-sized bites, ready for busy mornings, sleepy weekends, and everything in between. Easily customizable with your favorite flavors and mix-ins, they’re not just convenient; they’re absolutely delicious, too!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient here pulls its weight, bringing nutrition, texture, and plenty of flavor to these cheerful little oat cups. Gather these staples and get ready for a breakfast game-changer that tastes like comfort in every bite.
- Old-fashioned rolled oats: These are the backbone, providing a chewy, hearty texture that holds everything together.
- Baking powder: Gives the oatmeal cups a gentle rise, so they don’t turn out too dense.
- Ground cinnamon: Adds a warm, cozy scent and brings out the natural sweetness in the oats and fruit.
- Salt: Just a pinch elevates every flavor and balances the sweetness perfectly.
- Large eggs: The binding power! Eggs help everything set into a tender, springy muffin shape.
- Milk (dairy or non-dairy): Adds creaminess and moisture—you can use whatever milk suits your diet.
- Maple syrup or honey: Natural sweetness with an extra depth of flavor; pick whichever you love.
- Melted coconut oil or butter: Brings richness and helps keep the oatmeal cups moist (plus a buttery or tropical touch).
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavor profile and makes the kitchen smell amazing!
- Mashed banana or unsweetened applesauce: Adds brightness, subtle sweetness, and helps bind everything with a little fruitiness.
- Mix-ins (blueberries, chocolate chips, or chopped nuts): Your chance to play—add whatever flavors or textures you crave for a custom creation.
How to Make Baked Oatmeal Cups
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or give each cup a spritz of cooking spray. This keeps your Baked Oatmeal Cups from sticking and makes clean-up a breeze.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the old-fashioned rolled oats, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. This step ensures that everything is evenly distributed, so every bite is perfectly seasoned and full of warm, oaty flavor.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
Grab another bowl and whisk together the eggs, milk of your choice, maple syrup or honey, melted coconut oil or butter, vanilla extract, and the mashed banana or applesauce. This mixture should look creamy and well blended, and it forms the luscious base for your Baked Oatmeal Cups.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry mixture. Stir gently until everything is well mixed—no dry patches, but be careful not to overmix. At this point, fold in your favorite mix-ins, from juicy blueberries to melty chocolate chips to crunchy nuts. Each batch can be uniquely yours!
Step 5: Fill and Bake
Divide the oatmeal mixture evenly among the muffin cups, filling them nearly to the top. They won’t rise too much, so don’t be shy! Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 22 to 25 minutes, until the tops are set and just turning golden.
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy
Let the Baked Oatmeal Cups cool in the pan for about 5 to 10 minutes (they’ll firm up and pop out more easily). Then, remove and eat them warm, or let them cool completely for grab-and-go breakfasts throughout your week.
How to Serve Baked Oatmeal Cups
Garnishes
Top each Baked Oatmeal Cup with a dollop of creamy Greek yogurt, a sprinkle of extra cinnamon, or a handful of fresh berries for a beautiful, nourishing finish. A drizzle of nut butter or maple syrup adds even more indulgence!
Side Dishes
Pair these cups with a glass of your favorite milk or a hot mug of coffee for a satisfying breakfast. They also play nicely with a side of scrambled eggs, fresh fruit salad, or even a smoothie for a more well-rounded morning meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Baked Oatmeal Cups shine as part of a brunch spread—arrange them on a cake stand, tuck each one into a festive wrapper, or set up a DIY bar with different toppings so everyone can decorate their own. They’re also perfect tucked into lunchboxes for a sweet midday treat!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your Baked Oatmeal Cups have cooled completely, place them in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. They’ll stay moist and fresh for up to 5 days, making them a true lifesaver for busy weeks.
Freezing
These are freezer-friendly for maximum convenience! Arrange cooled oatmeal cups in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container. They’ll keep beautifully for up to three months—just grab one whenever you need a quick breakfast fix.
Reheating
To reheat, simply microwave a cup for 20 to 30 seconds, or place in a low oven until warmed through. If reheating from frozen, give it a bit longer or let it thaw overnight in the fridge before warming. Their flavor and texture stay spot-on!
FAQs
Can I make Baked Oatmeal Cups without eggs?
Absolutely! You can substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) or even a store-bought egg replacer to keep them plant-based and allergy-friendly.
What’s the best mix-in for Baked Oatmeal Cups?
The sky’s the limit! Blueberries, chopped walnuts, mini chocolate chips, diced apples, raspberries, dried cranberries, or even shredded coconut all work beautifully. Feel free to mix and match for variety.
Are Baked Oatmeal Cups gluten free?
If you make sure to use certified gluten-free rolled oats, the recipe is naturally gluten free. Always double-check your mix-ins and other ingredients if allergies are a concern.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Doubling works like a charm. Just use two muffin tins or bake in batches, and you’ll have enough Baked Oatmeal Cups to last all week—or to freeze for later.
What can I use instead of bananas?
If you’re not a fan of bananas, unsweetened applesauce is an easy swap that still offers moisture and gentle sweetness. Pumpkin puree is another fun, seasonal twist!
Final Thoughts
These Baked Oatmeal Cups are a joyful, fuss-free way to bring a little warmth and nourishment into any morning. Try them for breakfast, snack time, or even dessert, and don’t be afraid to make them your own with all your favorite flavors. There’s nothing like opening your fridge and seeing a batch ready to grab and go—here’s to brighter, tastier mornings!
Print
Baked Oatmeal Cups Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 oatmeal cups 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Baked Oatmeal Cups are a delicious and nutritious breakfast option that can be easily customized with your favorite mix-ins. Perfect for meal prep or a quick, on-the-go morning meal!
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- ⅓ cup maple syrup or honey
- ¼ cup melted coconut oil or butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup mashed banana or unsweetened applesauce
Mix-Ins:
- ½ cup of blueberries, chocolate chips, or chopped nuts
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a muffin tin with liners or cooking spray.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix eggs, milk, maple syrup, coconut oil, vanilla, and mashed banana until smooth.
- Combine mixtures: Pour wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until fully combined. Fold in mix-ins.
- Fill muffin cups: Divide the mixture among the muffin cups, filling them to the top.
- Bake: Bake for 22–25 minutes until set and golden.
- Cool and serve: Allow to cool before serving or storing for later.
Notes
- You can double the recipe and freeze extras for a quick breakfast option.
- Experiment with different mix-ins for varied flavors like apple cinnamon, raspberry almond, or peanut butter chocolate chip.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 oatmeal cup
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
