Nothing starts the day quite like a warm, comforting dish of Baked Oatmeal. This recipe brings together wholesome oats, sweet apples, and toasted pecans for a Southern breakfast.
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Growing up, this dish was a family favorite, often served on chilly mornings when we gathered around the table, sharing laughter and stories before the day began.
A Southern food classic
Southern cooking is all about warmth, tradition, and making meals with love. I still remember my grandmother pulling a dish of baked oatmeal out of the oven, the sweet aroma filling the kitchen. She would always say, “A good breakfast starts with something warm,” and she was right.
Be it a busy weekday or a lazy Sunday morning, this dish was always a welcome treat. Now, I love sharing this recipe with my family, keeping that tradition alive.
Ingredients
How to make Baked Oatmeal
This baked oatmeal comes together with just a few simple steps. Start by preparing the baking dish and layering in the chopped apples. Mix the dry ingredients in one bowl and the wet ingredients in another. Then, combine them, ensuring the oats soak up all the flavors.
Stir in the butter, raisins, and cranberries before pouring the mixture over the apples. Sprinkle with toasted pecans, then bake until golden brown and set. Let it rest before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serving suggestions
Baked oatmeal is best served warm, straight from the oven. Add a drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of whipped cream for extra sweetness.
Pair it with a cup of hot coffee or a side of crispy bacon for a true Southern breakfast. You can also serve it with a scoop of vanilla yogurt for a balanced, creamy contrast.
Storage tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
If you want to freeze portions, wrap them individually and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Southern farewell
Baked oatmeal is more than just breakfast—it’s a memory in the making. Every time I bake this dish, it reminds me of home, family, and the simple joys of Southern cooking.
I hope this recipe brings warmth to your kitchen and becomes a favorite at your table. Enjoy every bite!
Baked Oatmeal
Equipment
- 8×8-inch Baking Dish
- Cooking spray
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Knife and Cutting Board
- Oven
Ingredients
- Cooking spray
- 2 cups Granny Smith apples peeled and chopped into ¼-inch pieces
- 2 cups regular rolled oats
- 1 cup toasted pecans chopped (divided)
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 tablespoons salted butter melted
- ¼ cup raisins
- ¼ cup dried cranberries craisins
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray an 8×8-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Spread the chopped apples evenly at the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, ½ cup of the toasted pecans, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and kosher salt. Stir until well blended.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pour the milk mixture into the oat mixture, stirring gently until fully incorporated.
- Stir in the melted butter, mixing until just combined. Fold in the raisins and dried cranberries.
- Pour the combined mixture over the apples in the baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of toasted pecans on top.
- Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the oatmeal is set.
- Remove from the oven and let it stand for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with your favorite toppings!
