Rise and Shine! Baked Oatmeal is one of our favorite breakfasts to customize with nut butter, and it’s known to please kids and grown ups alike. It makes for a comforting and nutritious brunch options, combining the wholesome goodness of oats with the richness of nut butter and the sweetness of fruits.

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 cups old-fashioned oats
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons nut butter (such as almond butter or peanut butter)
• 2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup or honey
• 1 large egg
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup mixed fresh or frozen fruits (such as berries, sliced bananas, or diced apples)
• Additional sliced fruits and nuts for topping (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.

Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, combine the oats, chopped nuts, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Mix well.

Prepare Nut Butter:
In a microwave-safe bowl, gently warm the nut butter for about 20-30 seconds until it’s slightly softened. This will make it easier to mix.

Combine Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the warmed nut butter, milk, maple syrup or honey, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients and mix until everything is thoroughly combined.

Add Fruits:
Gently fold in the mixed fruits. You can use fresh or frozen fruits, but if using frozen fruits, make sure they’re not in large clumps.

Transfer to Baking Dish:
Pour the oatmeal mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it evenly.

Optional Toppings:
If desired, you can arrange additional sliced fruits and nuts on top for added flavor and presentation.

Bake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the oatmeal is set and the top is golden brown.

Cool and Serve:
Allow the baked oatmeal to cool slightly before serving. This will help it set further. Cut into squares or rectangles and serve warm. Serve the nut butter and fruit baked oatmeal on its own or with a drizzle of extra maple syrup, yogurt, or a splash of milk, if desired.

Variations:
Nut Butter Swirl: Instead of mixing the nut butter into the wet ingredients, you can swirl it on top of the oatmeal before baking for a marbled effect.
Flavor Additions: Consider adding a touch of vanilla, almond extract, or a sprinkle of nutmeg for extra flavor.
Customized Fruits: Feel free to customize the fruit mixture based on what’s in season or your personal preferences.