Spring time is here and the living is easy! Ok, that's probably not true, but spring weather is here to stay and we have summer to look forward to!

For me- that means time for ALL of the citrus! Lemons, limes, and oranges will happily flavor many of my dishes for the next few weeks. Plus, who doesn't love a good kick of Vitamin C???

This week, I used lemon and fresh raspberries to flavor my baked oatmeal. Prepping breakfast on Sunday is a great way to help weekday mornings run a bit smoother. Plus, I always look forward to my flavorful and mush-free morning oats!

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Basic Baked Oatmeal Ingredients

Old-Fashioned or Rolled Oats: This healthy whole-grain provides both fiber and protein.

Maple Syrup: For a natural sweetness. I also add some brown sugar.

Eggs: These help to bind all of the ingredients together.

Applesauce or Yogurt: Either one will work! This gives the oatmeal a touch of extra sweetness and keeps the oatmeal from drying out while baking.

Flour: The secret to my mush-free baked oatmeal! Flour plus baking powder brings this dish closer to a cake/muffin texture.

Milk: Both dairy and dairy free varieties work well.

Mix-Ins: Strawberries, blueberries, apples, pears, chocolate chips, pecans, walnuts, peanut butter, cinnamon, cream cheese, caramel sauce…the possibilities are endless!

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Baked Oatmeal Tips

• There are so many possible flavor combinations! Add some chopped pecans, almonds, or white chocolate chips.
• Adding a bit of oil or butter provides some healthy fat. It also means there will be no sticking to paper cupcake liners.
• Both applesauce AND yogurt work well. Choose your favorite or whatever you find in the pantry/fridge.
• Gluten free as long as the oats are certified gluten free and you use gluten free flour. I use oat flour.
• Serve right out of the oven or make ahead and store in the fridge. Baked oatmeal will last for 4-5 days. I prefer re-heating in the microwave for 30-45 seconds.

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What should I serve with baked oatmeal?

    ♦ Fresh Fruit

    ♦ Greek Yogurt

    ♦ Eggs

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Craving more baked oatmeal???

        - Strawberry Cheesecake Baked Oatmeal

        - S'mores Baked Oatmeal

        - Shoo Fly Baked Oatmeal