Description

A comforting, make-ahead baked oatmeal featuring toasted pecans, warm fall spices, and fresh apples. This dish offers a perfect contrast of crispy top and soft, custardy interior, making it an ideal stress-free weekend brunch.

Ingredients

Scale

4 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
2 cups whole milk
2 large eggs
1/2 cup real maple syrup (Grade B recommended)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup pecans, chopped
1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins
1 medium apple (Honeycrisp or Fuji), peeled and diced

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
Heat a small skillet over medium heat. Toast chopped pecans for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt. Whisk to distribute spices evenly.
In a separate bowl or large measuring cup, whisk together eggs, milk, melted butter, and maple syrup until smooth and emulsified.
Pour wet ingredients over dry ingredients. Add toasted pecans, dried cranberries, and diced apples. Stir until oats are fully coated.
Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes to allow oats to absorb liquid.
Pour mixture into prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Optionally brush top with extra butter or drizzle with maple syrup.
Bake for 40-45 minutes until top is golden brown, puffed, and edges are bubbling. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
Cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before cutting and serving.

Notes

Do not use instant or steel-cut oats; old-fashioned rolled oats are required for the correct texture. Toasting the pecans is highly recommended for enhanced flavor. For make-ahead prep, mix ingredients the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Add 5-10 minutes to baking time if baking from cold. Use firm apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji to prevent mushiness.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 square
Calories: 280
Sugar: 18
Sodium: 150
Fat: 10
Saturated Fat: 3
Carbohydrates: 42
Fiber: 4
Protein: 8

Keywords: baked oatmeal, fall breakfast, toasted pecans, make-ahead brunch, cozy oatmeal, apple oatmeal, gluten-free option