Baked Oatmeal Squares
These hearty baked oatmeal squares combine the cozy warmth of cinnamon with naturally sweet maple syrup for a grab-and-go breakfast.
It’s a cross between a tender oatmeal cookie and your favorite bowl of morning oats but in a perfectly portable form!
Variations & Substitutions
For a gluten-free version, simply use certified gluten-free oats. Want to make it vegan? Swap the eggs for flax eggs and use plant-based milk. For a protein boost, try adding hemp seeds or your favorite protein powder.
The applesauce can be replaced with mashed banana or yogurt for different flavor profiles. My favorite mix-ins include fresh blueberries, chopped almonds, or even dark chocolate chips.
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Results
Don’t skip the cooling time – it’s crucial for the squares to set properly. The texture should be lightly browned on top and slightly crisp around the edges, but still moist in the middle.
If you’re using frozen berries, there’s no need to thaw them first. For the best texture, stick with old-fashioned rolled oats rather than quick oats.
Making the Recipe Stand Out
Try adding a streusel topping before baking or a drizzle of peanut butter after they’ve cooled. Consider layering different fruits throughout the batter instead of mixing them in.
A sprinkle of coarse sugar on top before baking adds a lovely crunch. For special occasions, add a cream cheese drizzle by mixing Greek yogurt with a touch of powdered sugar.
Storage & Reheating
Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze them for up to 3 months. For freezing, wrap individual portions in freezer-safe bags after they’ve completely cooled.
To reheat, pop them in a toaster oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes for crispy edges, or microwave for 20-30 seconds wrapped in a damp paper towel. They’re also perfectly delicious eaten cold straight from the fridge!
Baked Oatmeal Squares
Ingredients
- 2.5 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/3 cup applesauce
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional mix-ins: 1 cup berries or nuts
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Mix all dry ingredients in a large bowl: oats, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, applesauce, maple syrup, and vanilla.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients, stirring until well incorporated. Fold in your chosen mix-ins.
- Pour into prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and set in the middle.
- Let cool completely before cutting into squares.
