Amish Blackberry and Strawberry Baked Oatmeal Recipe

Rolled oats: The base of the dish, providing a hearty and nutritious foundation.

Blackberries: Adds a tart and juicy burst of flavor.

Strawberries: Brings a sweet and fresh taste to the oatmeal.

Baking powder: Helps the oatmeal rise slightly and gives it a light texture.

Cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice to the dish.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

Milk: Provides moisture and a creamy texture.

Maple syrup: A natural sweetener that adds depth of flavor.

Egg: Helps bind the ingredients together.

Butter: Adds richness and flavor.

Vanilla extract: Enhances the sweetness and adds a lovely aroma.

When preparing the blackberries and strawberries, make sure to gently fold them into the oatmeal mixture to avoid breaking the delicate fruits. This ensures that the berries remain whole and distribute evenly throughout the baked oatmeal, providing bursts of flavor in every bite. Additionally, using fresh berries rather than frozen ones can help maintain the texture and prevent excess moisture from affecting the final dish.

• rolled oats - Substitute with quinoa flakes: Quinoa flakes provide a similar texture and are also gluten-free, making them a good alternative for those with gluten sensitivities.

• blackberries - Substitute with blueberries: Blueberries have a similar size and sweetness, and they also provide a burst of flavor and antioxidants.

• sliced strawberries - Substitute with raspberries: Raspberries offer a similar tartness and can be used to maintain the berry flavor profile of the dish.

• baking powder - Substitute with ¼ teaspoon baking soda + ½ teaspoon cream of tartar: This combination mimics the leavening effect of baking powder.

• cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg provides a warm, spicy flavor that can complement the other ingredients similarly to cinnamon.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a slightly different mineral profile.

• milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that can be used to maintain the creamy texture of the dish.

• maple syrup - Substitute with honey: Honey provides a similar sweetness and can be used in the same quantity.

• lightly beaten egg - Substitute with flax egg: A flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoon water) is a vegan alternative that helps bind the ingredients together.

• melted and cooled slightly butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil provides a similar fat content and can add a subtle coconut flavor.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract offers a different but complementary flavor that can enhance the overall taste of the dish.

• Allow the baked oatmeal to cool completely at room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation from forming, which can make the oatmeal soggy.

• For short-term storage, transfer the baked oatmeal to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

• To reheat individual servings, place a portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat on high for 1-2 minutes. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

• For longer storage, cut the baked oatmeal into individual portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped pieces in a freezer-safe bag or container. The oatmeal can be frozen for up to 3 months.

• When ready to enjoy, thaw the baked oatmeal overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat using the microwave or oven as mentioned above.

• To maintain the best texture and flavor, avoid refreezing the baked oatmeal once it has been thawed.

• If you prefer a crispier top after reheating, place the oatmeal under the broiler for a minute or two, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

• Consider adding a splash of milk or a drizzle of maple syrup when reheating to enhance the moisture and flavor of the baked oatmeal.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the leftover baked oatmeal in an oven-safe dish.
  3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
  4. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.
  5. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes if you prefer a slightly crispy top.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place a portion of the baked oatmeal in a microwave-safe bowl.
  2. Add a splash of milk or water to keep it moist.
  3. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel.
  4. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated evenly.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Break the baked oatmeal into smaller pieces and place them in a saucepan.
  2. Add a little milk or water to the pan.
  3. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
  4. Add more liquid if needed to reach your desired consistency.

• Toaster Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the baked oatmeal on a piece of aluminum foil or a small baking tray.
  3. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and slightly crispy on top.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the baked oatmeal in an air fryer-safe dish or on a piece of parchment paper.
  3. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure it doesn't overcook.

• Oven: Used to bake the oatmeal mixture until it is golden and set.

• Large mixing bowl: Used to combine the oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.

• Another bowl: Used to whisk together the milk, maple syrup, egg, butter, and vanilla extract.

• Whisk: Used to mix the wet ingredients thoroughly.

• Spatula: Used to fold in the blackberries and strawberries gently.

• Greased baking dish: Used to hold the oatmeal mixture while it bakes.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the rolled oats, milk, and maple syrup accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and vanilla extract.

• Knife: Used to slice the strawberries.

• Cutting board: Used as a surface to slice the strawberries.

• Cooling rack: Used to let the baked oatmeal cool for a few minutes before serving.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out all ingredients ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.

Use frozen berries: Substitute fresh blackberries and strawberries with frozen ones to save prep time.

Mix dry ingredients in advance: Combine oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt the night before.

Quick melt butter: Melt butter in the microwave for faster preparation.

One-bowl method: Mix wet and dry ingredients in the same bowl to reduce cleanup time.