When we moved to Oregon in 2006 it was quite a change in scenery and way of life for this California native. I was looking forward to the slower pace of life, and having more time to do all the things I promised myself I’d do in when I had the time. But like a lot of people, I dove into our new life in Oregon with the gusto I had given to my full-time career in California. In fact, I’ve created a couple of new career ventures along the way (cookbook author, food and travel blogger, cooking instructor and catering).
One of the first people I met in the new neighborhood introduced me to this recipe by way of a “coffee” she hosted one day. Yes, women do still get together for the three C’s – company, conversation, and coffee, at least in my neighborhood they do. (In today’s vernacular, it might be recognized more like a meet-up or live event with invitations sent by way of Facebook.) 🙂
Well, the point is a bunch of women gathered for a few hours to enjoy each other’s company, conversation, and coffee. This Baked Oatmeal recipe was a hit with the group because it is gluten-free (if you use gluten-free oats), semi-healthy, and portions can be doled out in any size from a breakfast bar dimension to a full plate. It can be served right out of the oven “as-is” or topped with yogurt and fruit of your choice. My hubby even puts maple syrup on it (too sweet for me).
The full recipe fills a 9 X 11 baking dish. It does freeze nicely so that’s a bonus of making the full recipe. Or cut it in half if you want to make a smaller amount.
Apples and craisins marry nicely in this recipe along with walnuts and cinnamon.
A moist mixture of oatmeal and fruits baking together yields a light, tasty oatmeal bar.
Baking the oatmeal toasts the ingredients and brings out the rich flavors.
The recipe can be cut into squares of any size portion.
Oatmeal Bake is so delicious, it can be served for dessert as well as for breakfast. It’s almost like eating an oatmeal cookie with all the goodness inside.
You’ll never look at oatmeal the same way once you’ve tried this delightful dish.
Serves 8
Save RecipeIngredients
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- ½ cup canola oil
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups oatmeal (good quality, I used Bob's Red Mill brand)
- ½ cup craisins
- 1 apple, peeled and diced*
- 1-2 teaspoons cinnamon (I like mine extra cinnamony so I use more)
- ½ cup chopped walnuts
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla
- Fruit (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
Instructions
- Mix and pour into a greased 9 x 11 pan. Bake 350 degrees for 25-30 minutes.
- Optional: Top with a dollop of greek yogurt and berries of choice)
Notes
*I've used Fuji, Honey Crisp, and Ice apples when making this recipe at different times. Freezes nicely.
Nutrition