Morning Glory Baked Oatmeal Recipe: A Delicious and Nutritious Breakfast Option

Introduction: Morning Glory Baked Oatmeal

If you’re tired of the same old breakfast routine and want something that’s both wholesome and indulgent, the Morning Glory Baked Oatmeal recipe is your answer. Packed with nutritious ingredients like carrots, apples, and nuts, this baked oatmeal gives you all the comforting flavors of a carrot cake but with far fewer calories. Whether you’re looking for a healthy breakfast to start your day, a delicious meal prep idea, or something to impress a brunch crowd, this recipe checks all the boxes.

With a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors, the Morning Glory Baked Oatmeal is a wonderful way to fuel your morning. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make this delightful dish. From its origin and ingredients to variations and storage tips, we’ve got you covered. So let’s dive into the world of Morning Glory Baked Oatmeal and discover why it’s the perfect breakfast choice!

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What is Morning Glory Baked Oatmeal?

The Morning Glory Baked Oatmeal is a hearty, comforting breakfast dish made with rolled oats and a combination of healthy ingredients that create a delightful texture and flavor profile. What makes this dish stand out is its versatility and nutritional value. It features grated carrots, apples, raisins, nuts, and coconut, all baked together into a warm, chewy oatmeal. The best part? It’s not only filling but also a great source of fiber, healthy fats, and essential vitamins.

This baked oatmeal is a great option for busy mornings, as it can be prepped in advance and baked in the oven while you go about your morning routine. Plus, it can be served with various toppings like yogurt, maple syrup, or fresh berries, making it customizable to your taste preferences.

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The Origin of Morning Glory Baked Oatmeal

The Morning Glory Baked Oatmeal is inspired by the classic Morning Glory Muffins, a popular baked good that originated in the early 1980s. These muffins, often packed with carrots, apples, raisins, and nuts, became a staple in health-conscious bakeries and home kitchens. As with many recipes, home cooks have adapted the flavors of Morning Glory Muffins into various forms, including oatmeal, making it an even more versatile and hearty breakfast option.

Just like the original muffins, this baked oatmeal offers a great way to get a combination of fruits and vegetables into your breakfast without sacrificing flavor. The rich blend of spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger—gives it a cozy, warm feel, making it a perfect choice for chilly mornings.

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Ingredients for Morning Glory Baked Oatmeal

To make this delicious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Dry Ingredients:

• 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1/3 cup brown sugar (or maple syrup, if preferred)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients:

• 1 3/4 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
• 1/3 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 2 large eggs
• 3 tablespoons melted butter (or coconut oil for a dairy-free version)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Morning Glory Mix-ins:

• 1 cup grated carrots (about 2 medium carrots)
• 1/2 cup grated apple (1 medium apple, peeled)
• 1/3 cup raisins or dried cranberries
• 1/3 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
• 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed (optional)

Optional Toppings:

• Extra nuts and coconut
• A sprinkle of oats
• Cinnamon sugar

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Step-by-Step Directions and Preparation Method

1. Prepare for Baking

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish (or an 8×8 inch dish for thicker portions) and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: oats, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt. Stir in the grated carrots, grated apple, raisins, chopped nuts, shredded coconut, and flaxseed (if using). Mix well to distribute everything evenly.

3. Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: milk, applesauce, eggs, melted butter (or coconut oil), and vanilla extract. Ensure the mixture is smooth and well combined.

4. Assemble and Bake

Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle with additional nuts, coconut, or oats if desired.

Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out mostly clean.

5. Cool and Serve

Let the baked oatmeal cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Cut it into squares and enjoy warm. You can serve it with extra milk, yogurt, or maple syrup for added flavor.

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Variations of Morning Glory Baked Oatmeal

The Morning Glory Baked Oatmeal recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are some variations to suit different tastes and preferences:

Tropical Twist

• Add diced pineapple and mango.
• Use coconut milk for a creamy base.
• Add extra coconut flakes for a tropical vibe.

Berry Boost

• Substitute raisins with fresh or frozen berries.
• Add lemon zest for a zesty kick.
• Slightly reduce the spices for a more delicate flavor.

Pumpkin Spice

• Add 1/2 cup pumpkin puree for a fall-inspired variation.
• Increase cinnamon and add pumpkin pie spice.
• Use pumpkin seeds instead of nuts for added texture.

Chocolate Chip

• Add 1/3 cup mini dark chocolate chips for a treat.
• Reduce sugar slightly to balance the sweetness.
• Perfect for kids or chocolate lovers!

Protein Power

• Add 2 scoops of vanilla protein powder for an extra boost.
• Increase the liquid by 1/4 cup.
• Add extra nuts and seeds for additional protein and texture.

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Make-Ahead Options

One of the best things about Morning Glory Baked Oatmeal is that it can be prepared ahead of time.

Overnight Prep:

• Assemble everything the night before, cover, and refrigerate.
• Bake it in the morning (you might need an extra 5-10 minutes in the oven due to the chilled ingredients).

Freezer-Friendly:

• Bake the oatmeal completely, then cool it down.
• Cut into portions and freeze up to 3 months.
• Reheat individual portions in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy.

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Serving Suggestions of Morning Glory Baked Oatmeal

Morning Glory Baked Oatmeal is incredibly versatile and can be paired with various toppings and sides. Here are some ideas:

For Breakfast:

• Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt for extra protein.
• Drizzle with maple syrup for a touch of sweetness.
• Add fresh berries on top for a burst of antioxidants.
• Pair it with a hot cup of coffee or tea.

For Meal Prep:

• Cut into individual portions and store them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Reheat each portion in the microwave for 30-60 seconds when you’re ready to enjoy.

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Storage Tips

Proper storage ensures that your Morning Glory Baked Oatmeal stays fresh for longer. Here’s how to store it:

• Room Temperature: Cover and store for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 1 week.
• Freezer: Individual portions freeze well for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Microwave for 30-60 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes.

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Pro Tips for Perfect Morning Glory Baked Oatmeal

Here are some expert tips to help you create the perfect Morning Glory Baked Oatmeal every time:

• Grating: Use a box grater or a food processor to grate the carrots and apple. This ensures the texture is consistent and helps the ingredients blend better.
• Moisture: Don’t skip the applesauce! It adds moisture to the oatmeal and prevents it from drying out.
• Texture: Adjust the liquid based on your desired texture. For chewier oatmeal, use less liquid; for creamier oatmeal, use more.
• Sweetness: Adjust the amount of sugar depending on the sweetness of your add-ins, such as the apples and raisins.
• Even Baking: Spread the mixture evenly in the pan to ensure even cooking and consistent results.

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Conclusion: Enjoying Healthy Baked Oatmeal

The Morning Glory Baked Oatmeal is more than just a breakfast—it’s a delightful way to start your day with wholesome, nutritious ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal prep idea, a healthier alternative to sugary cereals, or something that feels indulgent but still good for you, this baked oatmeal recipe has it all. With endless variations, easy make-ahead options, and simple storage tips, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Packed with fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats, this Morning Glory Baked Oatmeal is perfect for busy mornings, family brunches, or anytime you need a filling and flavorful meal. So why not give it a try? You’ll love how easy it is to make and how delicious it tastes!

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