Strawberry Oat Breakfast Bake

Name: Strawberry Oat Breakfast Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 1 cup almond milk (or any milk of choice); 1/4 cup maple syrup; 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp cinnamon; Chopped nuts (walnuts or almonds); Additional fresh strawberries; Yogurt or whipped cream

Highlighted under: Balanced Healthy Meals Ideas

I love starting my day with something nutritious and satisfying, which is why this Strawberry Oat Breakfast Bake is a favorite in my kitchen. It brings together the wholesome goodness of oats and the freshness of strawberries, resulting in a delightful meal that fuels my morning. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also fills the house with a sweet aroma that's hard to resist. Perfectly portioned, it makes for a delicious breakfast option that I can enjoy throughout the week.

Created by

Tabitha Collins

Last updated on 2026-02-08T06:13:36.640Z

When I first decided to create a baked oatmeal recipe, I wanted it to be both healthy and satisfying. After experimenting with different fruits, I found that strawberries lend the perfect sweetness without needing too much added sugar. I enjoy it warm, but it's also delightful cold, making it versatile for any morning.

A tip I discovered is to let the bake sit for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. This allows the oats to firm up slightly, making it easier to cut into perfectly portioned squares. Plus, the longer it sits, the more the flavors meld together!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Juicy strawberries combined with hearty oats for a perfect breakfast harmony
Make ahead for busy mornings or leisurely brunches with friends
Versatile enough to swap in your favorite fruits or nuts

Baking Tips for the Perfect Texture

Achieving the ideal texture in your Strawberry Oat Breakfast Bake hinges on the balance between wet and dry ingredients. The mashed bananas not only provide sweetness but also moisture, ensuring that your bake remains soft throughout. If you prefer a fluffier texture, consider using 1/2 cup of Greek yogurt mixed in with the wet ingredients, which adds creaminess and a bit of tang. Monitor your bake closely towards the end of the baking time; it should be set in the center with a golden-brown top, indicating it's ready to come out.

Another important aspect is to not overmix the batter once you combine the wet and dry ingredients. Stir just until combined and gently fold in the strawberries to avoid mushiness. This careful technique helps maintain some structure and bite in the oats, ensuring each square has a delightful chewiness. For added visual appeal, leave a few strawberry slices for the top before baking; they’ll caramelize slightly and make the bake even more enticing.

Storage and Make-Ahead Ideas

One of the best features of this Strawberry Oat Breakfast Bake is its make-ahead convenience. You can prepare the mixture the night before, store it covered in the refrigerator, and simply bake it in the morning. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld beautifully overnight. If you're really pressed for time, you can even freeze the unbaked mixture. Just transfer it straight from your bowl to a freezer-safe dish—simply extend the baking time by 5–10 minutes when you’re ready to bake from frozen.

When it comes to storage, keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. This bake tastes just as good when reheated; simply pop a square in the microwave for about 30 seconds to a minute or warm it in a toaster oven. For a delightful change, serve it with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of honey on top, which adds a wonderful creaminess and flavor contrast.

Variations and Flavor Enhancements

While strawberries shine in this recipe, there’s a world of possibilities for fruits and flavor profiles to explore. Swap out strawberries for blueberries, raspberries, or even peaches to create your favorite版本. If you prefer a more tropical twist, try adding pineapple chunks and coconut flakes; adjust the maple syrup down by a tablespoon if the fruit is particularly sweet. Additionally, incorporating spices such as nutmeg or ginger could provide an exciting flavor depth tailored to your taste.

Adding nuts like chopped walnuts or pecans not only enhances the texture but introduces healthy fats and protein, turning this bake into an even more satiating meal. Another delightful option is stirring in a handful of dark chocolate chips just before baking; they’ll melt into pockets of gooey richness, making each bite a treat. Don’t hesitate to experiment and make this recipe your own!

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for a nutritious breakfast you can bake in no time!

For the Bake

2 cups rolled oats
1 cup almond milk (or any milk of choice)
1/4 cup maple syrup
2 ripe bananas, mashed
1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp cinnamon

Optional Toppings

Chopped nuts (walnuts or almonds)
Additional fresh strawberries
Yogurt or whipped cream

This combination of ingredients creates a wholesome dish that's perfect for any breakfast setting!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to bake your delicious Strawberry Oat Breakfast Bake.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x9 inch baking dish.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the almond milk, maple syrup, mashed bananas, and vanilla extract. Mix well until fully combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Stir to mix evenly.

Combine Everything

Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in the sliced strawberries gently.

Bake

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Bake for 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Allow it to cool for a few minutes before cutting it into squares. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!

This Strawberry Oat Breakfast Bake is not only delicious but also easy to make, perfect for any breakfast occasion.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite berries or nuts. You can also drizzle some honey or serve it with yogurt for added creaminess.

Ingredient Insights

The choice of oats is crucial for the bake's texture. Rolled oats are preferred as they provide a hearty chew, whereas quick oats will yield a mushier result. Always ensure you have fresh strawberries; frozen strawberries can be used in a pinch, but they may release extra moisture, affecting the bake's overall consistency. If you're looking for a nut-free option, feel free to substitute the almond milk with oat or soy milk, both of which work beautifully in maintaining the bake's moisture.

Mashed bananas serve a dual purpose: they sweeten the dish naturally and replace the need for additional fats. If you need a banana substitute, consider using unsweetened applesauce at a 1:1 ratio. This will help retain the moisture levels while adding its own mild sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

This Strawberry Oat Breakfast Bake is wonderfully versatile in its serving suggestions. For a delightful brunch spread, serve it alongside yogurt and granola; this pairs the warm bake with a chilled, creamy component for a balanced meal. Alternatively, if you’re hosting, you could whip up a simple berry compote to drizzle over the top—this adds a vibrant touch that complements the flavors beautifully.

For a delightful dessert twist, serve the bake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a splash of cream. The contrast between the warm, soft bake and the cold scoop makes for an indulgent treat. Whatever you choose, this flexible dish can transition seamlessly from breakfast to dessert!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, frozen strawberries work well! Just make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before adding them to the mix.

→ How long does it last in the fridge?

The baked oatmeal can last up to 5 days in the fridge, making it a great make-ahead meal.

→ Can I substitute other types of milk?

Absolutely! Any milk, like cow's milk, soy milk, or oat milk, will work for this recipe.

→ Is it possible to make it vegan?

Yes, this recipe is already vegan-friendly with the use of almond milk and maple syrup!