If you’re looking for a wholesome breakfast that’s both delicious and easy to grab on the go, the Baked Oatmeal Cups with Nuts and Berries Recipe is an absolute game-changer. These delightful little cups bring together the hearty texture of rolled oats with the natural sweetness of maple syrup, the warmth of cinnamon, and the vibrant bursts of fresh berries. Adding nuts gives a satisfying crunch that makes every bite feel indulgent yet nutritious. Whether you’re prepping for busy mornings or a casual brunch, these oatmeal cups will quickly become your new favorite way to enjoy oats.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple ingredients is the first step to making magic in any kitchen, and this recipe is no exception. Each ingredient plays a key role, from the rolled oats that give structure and fiber, to the maple syrup that adds just the right amount of natural sweetness.
- 2 cups rolled oats: The hearty base that provides a chewy texture and keeps you full longer.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the oatmeal cups rise gently for a light, tender crumb.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: Adds warmth and a hint of spice to brighten the dish.
- 1/4 cup maple syrup: A natural sweetener that infuses every bite with rich, caramel notes.
- 1 cup milk: Binds the oats and other ingredients together while adding creaminess.
- 1 egg: Provides structure and helps the cups hold their shape.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth and a subtle fragrant sweetness.
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts: For crunch and a nutty flavor contrast—use your favorites like walnuts or pecans.
- 1/2 cup fresh berries: Bursts of freshness and natural tartness that brighten every bite.
How to Make Baked Oatmeal Cups with Nuts and Berries Recipe
Step 1: Prepare your oven and muffin tin
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing your muffin tin or lining it with paper liners ensures that the oatmeal cups will come out cleanly and maintain their shape after baking.
Step 2: Mix the dry ingredients
In a large bowl, stir together the rolled oats, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. This dry blend forms the flavorful, textured base of your oatmeal cups, with cinnamon contributing a lovely cozy aroma.
Step 3: Whisk the wet ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the maple syrup, milk, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth. These wet ingredients bring moisture and sweetness, and the egg is essential for binding the mixture together.
Step 4: Combine dry and wet ingredients
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with dry ingredients, then mix thoroughly until well combined. Your batter should be thick but stirrable, setting the stage for the perfect oatmeal cups.
Step 5: Add nuts and berries
Gently fold in the chopped nuts and fresh berries. This step makes every bite exciting, with crunchy textures and juicy pops of fruit throughout.
Step 6: Fill the muffin tin
Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full. This leaves just enough room for gentle rising without spilling over.
Step 7: Bake until golden and set
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes until the cups are golden brown and set in the center. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool before serving
Allow your Baked Oatmeal Cups with Nuts and Berries Recipe to cool slightly before removing from the tin. This cooling time helps them firm up and makes them easier to handle.
How to Serve Baked Oatmeal Cups with Nuts and Berries Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little extra cinnamon or dust powdered sugar over the cooled cups for a simple but elegant touch. Fresh berries or a drizzle of maple syrup can also brighten the presentation.
Side Dishes
Pair these oatmeal cups with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a side of fresh fruit salad to round out your breakfast with creamy textures and a variety of flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your oatmeal cups into a fun brunch spread by stacking them on a pretty platter, garnishing with edible flowers or fresh mint leaves to make them extra inviting and festive.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover baked oatmeal cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for a quick breakfast or snack.
Freezing
These cups freeze beautifully — wrap them individually in plastic wrap and pop them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
Warm frozen or refrigerated oatmeal cups in the microwave for about 30 to 45 seconds, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in a toaster oven for a slight crispiness.
FAQs
Can I use dried berries instead of fresh?
Yes! Dried berries like cranberries or raisins work well. Just be aware that they will add a chewier texture and slightly different sweetness compared to fresh berries.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
To make it vegan, substitute the egg with a flax or chia seed egg and use a plant-based milk. The maple syrup is already vegan-friendly!
What nuts work best in this recipe?
Walnuts, pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts all complement the oats and berries nicely. Toasting the nuts beforehand can enhance their flavor even more.
Can I add other mix-ins to the oatmeal cups?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with shredded coconut, chocolate chips, or seeds like chia or flax to boost nutrition and add extra texture.
How do I know when the oatmeal cups are fully baked?
They should be golden brown on top and set in the center. A toothpick inserted should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.
Final Thoughts
These Baked Oatmeal Cups with Nuts and Berries Recipe are such a joy to make and eat. They bring wholesome ingredients together in a cozy, flavorful package perfect for busy mornings or anytime you need a wholesome treat. I hope you enjoy making them as much as I do—once you try them, they’ll likely become a staple in your kitchen too!
Print
Baked Oatmeal Cups with Nuts and Berries Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Baked Oatmeal Cups are a wholesome and delicious breakfast or snack option, combining hearty oats, warming cinnamon, sweet maple syrup, and fresh berries. Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep, they bake up golden and moist with a crunchy nut topping.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Add-ins
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts
- 1/2 cup fresh berries
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a muffin tin or line it with paper liners to prevent sticking and make removal easier.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the rolled oats, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon until evenly distributed to create a balanced oat base.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, milk, egg, and vanilla extract thoroughly to blend the flavors and incorporate air for lightness.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients bowl, stirring gently until everything is well combined into a uniform batter.
- Add Nuts and Berries: Fold in the chopped nuts and fresh berries carefully, distributing them evenly throughout the batter for bursts of texture and flavor.
- Fill Muffin Cups: Spoon the oatmeal batter evenly into the prepared muffin tin cups, filling each almost to the top for nicely rounded cups.
- Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the oatmeal cups are set, golden brown on top, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the muffin tin from the oven and allow the oatmeal cups to cool for a few minutes before serving to set their shape and enhance flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute milk with any plant-based milk to make this recipe dairy-free.
- Use a mix of your favorite nuts such as walnuts, pecans, or almonds for varied texture.
- Fresh or frozen berries both work well; if using frozen, do not thaw before adding.
- These oatmeal cups can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days and can be reheated quickly in the microwave.
- To make this recipe vegan, replace the egg with a flax egg or another egg substitute.
