- 1 packet (1/2 cup/50 grams) instant oatmeal (I used Maple Multigrain Muffin in the pictured batch; may use favorite flavor or plain)
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup mashed, very ripe banana or pumpkin puree
- 1-3 teaspoons pure maple syrup or honey (optional; see notes)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Optional add-ins: 1 tablespoon sunflower seeds,chopped nuts of choice, or raisins
- Optional toppings: Maple syrup or sweetener of choice; milk; peanut or almond butter and sliced banana and/or raisins; additional fruit and/or nuts of choice
Instant Baked Oatmeal
The microwave option makes these a cinch to whip up although the conventional oven method does offer a slightly better texture. When microwaving, it is easier to overcook, so check early the first time as all microwaves cook a little differently.
When baking, I often prepare several at once. After cooling, cover and store at room temperature overnight or in the fridge for 4-5 days. I like to gently reheat before eating.
Yields 1 serving.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mash the banana (if using) with a fork or add the pumpkin. Whisk in the egg, the maple syrup or honey, and baking powder, and then stir in the oats until thoroughly combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a lightly-greased microwave or oven-safe ramekin, mug, or bowl (I’ve found there’s no need to grease when using microwave), and smooth the top with the back of a spoon or spatula. (I’ve also used mini loaf pans and 8- and 16-ounce ramekins; note cooking time variation below.)
- Bake in an oven preheated to 350 degrees F for approximately 15 minutes for a 2-cup ramekin or mini loaf pan, or 18 minutes for a 1-cup ramekin. (If you happen to stir in fresh or frozen fruit, the added moisture will necessitate an extra minute or two of bake time. If you do this, I recommend no more than 1/4 – 1/3 cup of fruit. Too much moisture will create a mushy end result.)
- Conversely, microwave for approximately 1 minute and 30 seconds, or until the top of the oatmeal is slightly firm to the touch. (If microwaved too long, the oatmeal will become tough. Check after one minute until you know how long this takes in your microwave, extending the time as needed. Time will also vary based on proportions of baking dish or mug used.)
- Top as desired and enjoy a speedy, whole-grain, protein-rich breakfast!
Notes
- If you wish to drizzle syrup over these, you may omit the sweetener altogether prior to baking. When using flavored packets, I’ve been omitting it entirely and don’t miss it. Conversely, if you wish to eat the baked oatmeal plain, you may prefer to increase the amount of maple syrup or honey to 1 tablespoon. After making these once, you can easily adjust the sweetness to the amount that’s perfect for you.