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Cozy Toddler Baked Oatmeal (Great for Meal Prep) - Simple, Make-Ahead Breakfast

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 1 cup milk (dairy or unsweetened non-dairy)
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce or mashed ripe banana
  • 1/4 cup pure maple syrup or honey (for kids over 1 year)
  • 2 large eggs (or 2 flax eggs for egg-free)
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter or coconut oil, plus extra for greasing
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon fine salt
  • Optional add-ins (about 1 cup total): blueberries, diced strawberries, grated apple or zucchini (squeezed dry), mini chocolate chips, or finely chopped nuts (skip nuts for younger toddlers if needed)

Method
 

  1. Prep the pan and oven: Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8x8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment for easy removal.
  2. Mix the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk milk, applesauce or banana, maple syrup, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla until smooth.
  3. Add the dry ingredients: Stir in oats, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Fold gently until combined. The mixture will look a bit loose—this is good.
  4. Stir in add-ins: Fold in fruit or other add-ins. If using grated zucchini or apple, squeeze out extra moisture with a clean towel first.
  5. Rest briefly: Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes so the oats start to absorb liquid. This helps it hold together after baking.
  6. Fill the pan: Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and spread it into an even layer.
  7. Bake: Bake for 28–35 minutes, until the edges are set and the center is just firm to the touch. A toothpick should come out mostly clean.
  8. Cool and slice: Let it cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes. Slice into small squares or bars for toddlers. Serve warm or at room temperature.
  9. Serve: Add a drizzle of yogurt, a splash of milk, or a smear of nut butter on top for extra creaminess and protein.