Baked Oatmeal Muffins

Irresistible Baked Oatmeal Muffins: A Wholesome Breakfast Treat

Start your day off right with these irresistible Baked Oatmeal Muffins! Packed with wholesome ingredients and bursting with flavor, these muffins are the perfect grab-and-go breakfast option for busy mornings. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious snack or a satisfying breakfast on the run, these muffins are sure to hit the spot. Plus, they’re easy to make and can be customized with your favorite mix-ins. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to create these delicious baked oatmeal muffins that the whole family will love!

Ingredients:

  • Produce:
    • 1 Banana, ripe and mashed
  • Refrigerated:
    • 2 Eggs
  • Breakfast Foods:
    • 3 cups Oatmeal (rolled oats)
  • Baking & Spices:
    • 2 tsp Baking powder
    • 1/2 cup Brown sugar (or sweetener of choice)
    • 1 cup Chocolate chips (optional)
    • 1 tsp Cinnamon
    • 1/2 tsp Nutmeg
    • 1/2 tsp Salt
    • 1 tbsp Vanilla extract
  • Dairy:
    • 1 cup Half and half (or milk of choice)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it well with cooking spray.
  2. Prepare the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed banana, eggs, half and half, and vanilla extract. Whisk until well combined.
  3. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In another mixing bowl, combine the oatmeal, baking powder, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir until evenly mixed.
  4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  5. Add Chocolate Chips (Optional): If desired, fold in the chocolate chips or other mix-ins of your choice.
  6. Fill the Muffin Cups: Spoon the oatmeal batter into the prepared muffin cups, filling each cup almost to the top.
  7. Bake to Perfection: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Cool and Serve: Remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Cook’s Notes and Variations:

  • Customize with Mix-Ins: Get creative and add your favorite mix-ins to these muffins, such as chopped nuts, dried fruit, shredded coconut, or seeds.
  • Make Them Vegan: Substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water per egg) and use plant-based milk instead of half and half.
  • Adjust Sweetness: Adjust the amount of brown sugar according to your preference. You can also use alternative sweeteners like maple syrup or honey.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use certified gluten-free oats to make these muffins gluten-free.

Keto and Low Carb Versions:

  • Keto Option: Substitute the oatmeal with almond flour or coconut flour for a low-carb alternative. Use sugar-free chocolate chips or skip them altogether to reduce the carb content. Replace the brown sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or stevia.
  • Low Carb Hack: Make these muffins without the banana and use almond milk or coconut milk instead of half and half. Add chopped nuts or seeds for extra crunch and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Q: Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats? A: Yes, you can use quick oats instead of rolled oats in this recipe. However, keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different, as quick oats are more finely ground.

Q: How should I store these muffins? A: Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Alternatively, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze them for longer storage. Simply wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag or container.

Q: Can I make these muffins ahead of time? A: Yes, you can make these muffins ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator or freezer. Simply reheat them in the microwave or oven before serving.

In conclusion, these Baked Oatmeal Muffins are a delicious and nutritious breakfast option that’s perfect for busy mornings or leisurely brunches. With their wholesome ingredients and customizable flavor, they’re sure to become a staple in your breakfast rotation. Whether enjoyed on their own or paired with your favorite toppings, these muffins are a satisfying and convenient way to start your day. So why not whip up a batch today and treat yourself to a wholesome and delicious breakfast treat? Your taste buds will thank you!