This warm and tasty baked oatmeal combines zucchini and juicy blueberries for a nutritious start to your day. It’s simple to make and packed with goodness!
I love how you can easily sneak in some veggies! Plus, it’s such a great way to use up leftover zucchini. A warm slice with a splash of milk is my favorite breakfast treat! 🥣
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These are essential for the texture of baked oatmeal. If you need a gluten-free version, look for certified gluten-free oats. I find rolled oats give a better chewy texture than quick oats!
Zucchini: This veggie adds moisture and nutrition. If zucchini isn’t available, you can use grated carrots or mashed banana as alternatives. Just remember, squeezing out excess moisture is key!
Blueberries: Fresh or frozen berries work well here. I love using frozen blueberries because they burst with flavor as they bake. Any berries will do if you want to switch things up—like raspberries or chopped strawberries!
Maple Syrup or Honey: Both sweeteners add a lovely flavor. If you prefer a lower-calorie option, feel free to replace with a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener.
How Do I Ensure My Zucchini Blueberry Baked Oatmeal Turns Out Perfect?
The secret to a great baked oatmeal is to mix wet and dry ingredients properly. Make sure to squeeze the grated zucchini to remove excess liquid. This helps prevent a mushy consistency.
- Mix the dry ingredients well before adding the wet to ensure even distribution.
- When combining the wet and dry, don’t over-mix; a few lumps are okay!
- Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Healthy Zucchini Blueberry Baked Oatmeal
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/4 cups milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup or honey
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups finely grated zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini, squeezed dry)
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
- Optional toppings: chopped nuts, extra blueberries, or a drizzle of nut butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful baked oatmeal will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 35-40 minutes to bake. Overall, you should plan for about 50 minutes from start to enjoy your warm dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare an 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) baking dish by lightly greasing it. This will make it easy to serve your baked oatmeal later!
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Give it a good mix so all the ingredients are well combined.
3. Prepare Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract until smooth. This mixture will add moisture and sweetness to your baked oatmeal!
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the oats mixture. Stir gently until everything is just combined; it’s okay if there are a few lumps!
5. Add Zucchini and Blueberries:
Now, fold in the grated zucchini and blueberries with care to keep them intact. This step adds flavor and nutrition, making your oatmeal extra yummy!
6. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly with a spatula. It will rise and set beautifully while baking!
7. Bake:
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. You’re looking for the top to be set and lightly golden. The aroma will be amazing!
8. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This helps it set even more and makes it easier to serve.
9. Enjoy:
Cut into squares and serve warm. You can add additional milk, yogurt, or your favorite toppings like chopped nuts or a drizzle of nut butter for extra flavor.
Enjoy your wholesome, delicious zucchini blueberry baked oatmeal!
FAQ for Healthy Zucchini Blueberry Baked Oatmeal
Can I Use Steel-Cut Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Steel-cut oats won’t yield the same texture in this recipe. They require more liquid and a longer cooking time than rolled oats. If you want to use them, pre-cook them according to package instructions before mixing with the other ingredients.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water (let sit for a few minutes to thicken). Also, ensure you use a plant-based milk and maple syrup instead of honey.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or warm it in the oven until heated through.
Can I Add Other Fruits or Nuts?
Yes! This recipe is very customizable. Feel free to mix in other fruits like chopped apples, pears, or mixed berries. You can also add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor!
