If you have been searching for a cozy breakfast that combines comfort, wholesome ingredients, and a burst of fresh flavor, this Blueberry Baked Oatmeal Recipe is going to be your new best friend. Imagine tender cubes of brioche soaked in a creamy, cinnamon-spiced custard, studded with juicy blueberries that pop with sweetness in every bite. It’s baked to a golden perfection that’s warm and inviting, making it the ultimate morning treat for family and friends. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or treating yourself to a comforting start, this dish brings together simple ingredients into something truly magical.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might seem straightforward, but each one plays a key role in creating the irresistible texture and flavor profile of this dish. From the soft bread base to the lush creaminess of the custard and the fresh bursts of blueberries, every component is essential to making this Blueberry Baked Oatmeal Recipe shine.
- 6 cups cubed bread (brioche, challah, or French bread): Provides a rich, soft base that soaks up the custard beautifully.
- 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries: Bursting with sweet-tart flavor and adds a gorgeous pop of color throughout.
- 4 large eggs: Acts as the binder, creating a silky custard that holds everything together.
- 1 ½ cups milk (or dairy-free alternative): Keeps the baked oatmeal moist and tender with a mild creaminess.
- ½ cup heavy cream (or coconut cream): Adds richness and depth to the custard for that indulgent, comforting feel.
- ½ cup maple syrup or honey: Natural sweetness that complements the fruit without overwhelming it.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Brings warmth and a lovely aromatic note to the custard.
- 1 tsp cinnamon: Infuses a cozy spice that pairs perfectly with blueberries and bread.
- ¼ tsp salt: Balances all the flavors and enhances sweetness.
- ½ cup chopped nuts (optional): Adds crunch and texture contrast if you want a little extra bite.
- Powdered sugar, for serving (optional): A delicate dusting that makes the final presentation look extra special.
How to Make Blueberry Baked Oatmeal Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, lightly grease a 9 by 13-inch baking dish to make sure none of the delicious baked oatmeal sticks – this sets you up for a smooth, easy bake and cleanup later.
Step 2: Layer Your Bread and Blueberries
Spread the cubed bread evenly inside your prepared baking dish. This bread will soak up all the custard goodness, so make sure it’s well-distributed. Sprinkle the blueberries right over the bread so they can mingle with every bite, creating those delightful sweet pockets throughout the dish.
Step 3: Make the Custard Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until smooth and well combined. This custard is the heart of your Blueberry Baked Oatmeal Recipe, infusing richness and flavor into the bread cubes and blueberries.
Step 4: Combine and Soak
Pour the custard mixture evenly over your bread and blueberries. Press down gently to help the bread soak up the liquid—this step makes sure every piece gets gloriously saturated. Let it rest for 10 minutes to soak in the flavors completely. If you want to amp up the taste, cover it and refrigerate overnight for a deeper infusion.
Step 5: Add the Crunch and Bake
Sprinkle chopped nuts on top if you’re going for that extra crunch—it’s a fantastic texture complement. Bake the dish in your preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, until it’s golden brown and set in the center. You’ll know it’s ready when it looks beautifully puffed and inviting.
Step 6: Final Touch and Serve
Allow your baked oatmeal to cool slightly before dusting it with powdered sugar for a pretty, sweet finish. Serve it warm, either on its own or with extra maple syrup or fresh fruit, and enjoy the comfort and joy baked into every bite.
How to Serve Blueberry Baked Oatmeal Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of powdered sugar melts into the warm oatmeal for a hint of sweetness and a pretty dusting. Fresh blueberries or a few mint leaves can add freshness and color, making the dish look as appetizing as it tastes. A drizzle of maple syrup on top elevates the warmth and sweetness, perfect for those of us who love a little extra indulgence.
Side Dishes
This dish is wonderfully versatile when it comes to sides. Pair it with some crispy bacon or sausage for a savory contrast that balances out the sweetness. Fresh fruit salad or a dollop of Greek yogurt can also make lovely companions, adding layers of texture and flavor to your breakfast table.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try baking the ingredients in individual ramekins for personal servings that look elegant and inviting. You can also serve it topped with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert-inspired treat, turning this breakfast classic into an anytime delight everyone will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Blueberry Baked Oatmeal Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain its moisture and prevent it from drying out. Reheating in small portions ensures you enjoy the comfort of this dish anytime without losing its charm.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this recipe well in advance, freezing is a fantastic option. Cut the baked oatmeal into individual portions and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer and thaw perfectly for a quick, nourishing breakfast.
Reheating
To reheat, simply microwave your portion for about 30 to 60 seconds or warm it in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 15 minutes. Adding a splash of milk before reheating can help maintain the creamy texture, bringing that fresh-from-the-oven experience back to life.
FAQs
Can I use other fruits instead of blueberries?
Absolutely! This Blueberry Baked Oatmeal Recipe is quite flexible. Feel free to swap blueberries with strawberries, raspberries, or even diced apples depending on your preference or what’s in season.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can easily use dairy-free alternatives such as almond milk and coconut cream to replace the milk and heavy cream. This keeps the dish creamy and delicious without compromising flavor.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute eggs with flax or chia egg replacers and use plant-based milk and cream. While the texture might vary slightly, it’s still a wonderful, cozy breakfast option.
Do I have to use brioche or challah bread?
While brioche or challah adds sweetness and richness, you can use any sturdy bread you have on hand. Just avoid super dense or crusty breads as they might not absorb the custard as well.
Can I prepare this recipe the night before?
Definitely! Preparing the Blueberry Baked Oatmeal Recipe the night before and letting it soak in the fridge will give you even fuller flavors. Just bake it fresh in the morning for a quick, effortless breakfast.
Final Thoughts
This Blueberry Baked Oatmeal Recipe has quickly become a cherished favorite in my kitchen, and I’m confident it will do the same for you. It’s a comforting combination of textures and flavors that feels both indulgent and wholesome. Whether you’re enjoying it on a busy weekday or a slow weekend morning, this recipe invites you to slow down, savor, and enjoy every warm, fruity, custardy bite. Give it a try and watch it become part of your regular breakfast rotation!
Print
Blueberry Baked Oatmeal Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes (including 10 minutes soaking)
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and comforting Blueberry Baked Oatmeal, made with cubed bread soaked in a cinnamon-vanilla custard and studded with fresh or frozen blueberries. This baked oatmeal casserole is perfect for a hearty breakfast or brunch that combines the richness of brioche or challah bread with juicy berries and optional crunchy nuts.
Ingredients
Base
- 6 cups cubed bread (brioche, challah, or French bread)
- 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
Custard Mixture
- 4 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups milk (or dairy-free alternative)
- ½ cup heavy cream (or coconut cream)
- ½ cup maple syrup or honey
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp salt
Toppings
- ½ cup chopped nuts (optional)
- Powdered sugar, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the oatmeal dish.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and help with easy removal.
- Arrange Bread: Spread the cubed bread evenly in the prepared baking dish, creating the base of the casserole.
- Add Blueberries: Sprinkle the fresh or frozen blueberries evenly over the bread cubes.
- Make Custard Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined to create a flavorful custard.
- Combine Custard with Bread: Pour the custard mixture over the bread and blueberry layers, pressing down gently to ensure all pieces are thoroughly soaked.
- Soak: Let it sit for 10 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the custard. For deeper flavor, you may cover and refrigerate overnight.
- Add Nuts (Optional): If using, sprinkle the chopped nuts evenly on top of the soaked mixture for added texture and flavor.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Cool and Serve: Let the baked oatmeal cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar. Serve warm with extra maple syrup or fresh fruit as desired.
Notes
- You can substitute brioche, challah, or French bread with other sturdy bread types as preferred.
- Use dairy-free alternatives such as almond milk and coconut cream for a vegan-friendly version.
- Overnight soaking enhances flavor and texture, making the dish more custardy.
- Chopped nuts add crunch but can be omitted for nut-free diets.
- Serve with additional fresh fruit or a drizzle of maple syrup for extra sweetness.
