I absolutely love this Blueberry Pecan Baked Oatmeal Recipe because it’s the kind of morning dish that feels like a warm hug. It’s packed with wholesome oats, juicy blueberries, and crunchy pecans, all baked into a comforting breakfast that’s perfect for busy weekdays or lazy weekend mornings. When I first tried it, I was amazed by how the layers of fruit and nuts add such a delightful texture contrast, making every bite exciting.
You’ll find that this recipe works wonderfully as a make-ahead breakfast, which means you can prep it the night before and enjoy a ready-to-eat meal in the morning without any stress. Plus, it’s flexible enough to customize to your favorite fruits or nuts, and it even doubles as a cozy dessert when topped with a dollop of Greek yogurt or some ice cream. The Blueberry Pecan Baked Oatmeal Recipe is definitely a crowd-pleaser that I’m thrilled to share with you.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Make-Ahead Meal: Prep it in advance to save your busy mornings without sacrificing a nutritious start.
- Natural Sweetness: Blueberries and maple syrup add just the right amount of sweet without overpowering.
- Texture Perfection: Creamy oats with crunchy pecans and juicy berries in every bite.
- Versatile & Customizable: Swap fruit, nuts, or milk types to fit your taste or dietary needs effortlessly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Blueberry Pecan Baked Oatmeal Recipe plays an important role, from the oats that provide heartiness to the cinnamon that offers cozy warmth. I always recommend using fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor and texture.
- Old fashioned oats: These hold their shape well during baking and create the perfect chewy texture.
- Brown sugar: Adds a rich sweetness that complements the maple syrup and blueberries.
- Baking powder: Gives a slight lift so the oatmeal bakes up fluffy rather than dense.
- Cinnamon: Warm spice that pairs beautifully with fruit and nuts.
- Salt: Just a pinch to balance out sweetness and enhance flavors.
- Eggs: Bind everything together, giving structure and richness.
- Maple syrup: I love using pure maple syrup for its deep, natural sweetness and subtle complexity.
- Milk (2% or preferred): Milk adds creaminess; you can swap in almond, oat, or any dairy-free alternative.
- Vanilla extract: Brightens the overall flavor and adds a lovely aroma.
- Butter (melted): Adds richness and helps with browning the top.
- Blueberries: Fresh or frozen works, but fresh gives the best burst of juicy sweetness.
- Pecans (chopped): I use half mixed in and half for topping to keep crunch vibrant.
Variations
I like to play around with this Blueberry Pecan Baked Oatmeal Recipe depending on what’s in season or what my family’s craving. Don’t be shy about making it your own — that’s how you’ll find your perfect version.
- Seasonal Fruits: Swapping blueberries for strawberries, raspberries, or even diced apples works beautifully; I adore using whatever fresh fruit I have on hand.
- Nut-Free: If pecans aren’t your thing or you have allergies, try walnuts or pumpkin seeds instead — they add great flavor and crunch.
- Dairy-Free: Use almond milk or coconut milk and coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free twist that still feels indulgent.
- Chocolate Lover’s: Add a handful of dark chocolate chips before baking for a treat that my kids go nuts over!
How to Make Blueberry Pecan Baked Oatmeal Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly butter a 9 x 13-inch baking pan. I like to use a bit of softened butter spread around the edges to ensure the oatmeal doesn’t stick and gives a lovely crust where the butter meets the pan.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients and Pecans
In a large mixing bowl, combine the old fashioned oats, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and about 3/4 of the chopped pecans. Give it a good stir so that everything is evenly distributed — this creates the base flavor that carries through each bite.
Step 3: Whisk Wet Ingredients Separately
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, vanilla extract, melted butter, maple syrup, and milk. This mixture brings moisture and richness, so you want these to be well combined so they spread evenly through the oats.
Step 4: Layer the Oats and Blueberries
Pour half of the oat mixture into the buttered baking pan, then gently smooth it to form an even layer. Next, scatter half of the blueberries on top of this layer. Add the remaining oat mixture over the berries, spreading it evenly again. This layering helps the blueberries keep their juicy pockets inside the oatmeal rather than sinking all the way down.
Step 5: Add Wet Mixture and Remaining Toppings
Pour the egg and milk mixture evenly over the entire pan, making sure to press down lightly with a spatula so the oats absorb the liquid fully. Then sprinkle the reserved blueberries and pecans on top. This final touch gives a gorgeous golden finish after baking.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 40 to 45 minutes until the top is golden brown and the edges are set. You’ll know it’s done when the blueberries have softened but still hold their shape, and the oatmeal jiggles slightly in the center like a perfect custard. Let it cool for about 10 to 15 minutes before serving — this resting time lets everything settle nicely.
Pro Tips for Making Blueberry Pecan Baked Oatmeal Recipe
- Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye after 40 minutes; overbaking dries out the oats. It’s better to have it slightly soft inside with a golden crunchy top.
- Blueberry Placement: I learned layering blueberries halfway helps them stay juicy and prevents the oatmeal from getting soggy.
- Maple Syrup Substitution: If you want less sweetness, honey works beautifully, but maple syrup adds that perfect depth I personally prefer.
- Cooling Time: Letting the oatmeal rest for at least 10 minutes post-bake helps it firm up, so it slices cleanly and isn’t mushy.
How to Serve Blueberry Pecan Baked Oatmeal Recipe
Garnishes
I often top my servings with a spoonful of creamy Greek yogurt or a drizzle of extra maple syrup. The tartness of yogurt balances the sweetness and adds a luxurious creaminess that makes each bite melt in your mouth. For a little crunch, I’ll sprinkle some toasted pecans on top just before serving.
Side Dishes
This Blueberry Pecan Baked Oatmeal teams beautifully with a fresh fruit salad or a side of crispy bacon for those who want a savory contrast. I also love pairing it with a hot cup of coffee or a spiced chai tea to round out the morning experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a brunch party, I like to bake this oatmeal in mini ramekins for individual servings — it feels fancy but is so easy to do. Another fun idea is to layer it in a clear glass dish with Greek yogurt and fresh berries for a beautiful parfait-style presentation that wows guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers store perfectly in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. I usually slice the baked oatmeal into squares and let them cool completely before storing so they don’t stick together. This way, you can grab a portion and reheat easily.
Freezing
If you want to freeze portions, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. I’ve found this method keeps them fresh and delicious for up to 2 months, making it an awesome quick breakfast option for busy weeks.
Reheating
To reheat, microwave a slice for 30-60 seconds until warm throughout. Adding a splash of milk or a spoonful of yogurt after reheating helps revive the creaminess. You can also reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes if you want the top crispy again.
FAQs
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Can I use quick oats instead of old fashioned oats in this recipe?
It’s best to stick with old fashioned oats for this baked oatmeal recipe because they hold their texture during baking and provide that chewy, hearty consistency. Quick oats tend to get mushy and can result in a less structured dish.
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Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just make sure to use certified gluten-free oats. This simple swap keeps the recipe safe for those with gluten sensitivities while keeping all the great flavors intact.
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How do I keep the blueberries from sinking to the bottom?
Layering the blueberries halfway through the oats, as shown in this recipe, helps keep them suspended. Tossing blueberries lightly in a bit of flour before mixing them can also prevent sinking, but layering is easier and effective.
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Can I substitute other nuts for pecans?
Yes! Walnuts, almonds, or even pumpkin seeds work great. I’ve used walnuts when pecans weren’t on hand, and the flavor and crunch were just as delightful.
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Is this baked oatmeal good for meal prep?
Definitely. It stores and reheats beautifully, making it a perfect meal prep option for busy mornings when you want something homemade but hassle-free.
Final Thoughts
This Blueberry Pecan Baked Oatmeal Recipe has become a staple in my kitchen because it balances ease, flavor, and nutrition all in one. If you’re looking for a breakfast that feels special yet requires minimal effort, this is it. I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do — it’s the kind I keep coming back to, especially when I want to start my day on a cozy, delicious note. Give it a try and make it your own!
PrintBlueberry Pecan Baked Oatmeal Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Blueberry Pecan Baked Oatmeal is a wholesome and delicious breakfast casserole combining old fashioned oats, sweet blueberries, crunchy pecans, and warm spices. Baked to a golden perfection, it offers a creamy, crunchy, and soft texture with every bite, making it perfect for an easy, make-ahead breakfast or a comforting healthy dessert.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups old fashioned oats
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups pecans, chopped and divided
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup maple syrup
- 2 cups 2% milk or any milk you prefer
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
Fruit
- 2 cups blueberries
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly butter a 9 x 13 inch baking pan to prevent sticking and help with easy cleanup.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the old fashioned oats, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and 3/4 of the chopped pecans. Stir to evenly distribute all the ingredients.
- Blend Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, vanilla extract, melted butter, maple syrup, and milk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Layer the Oatmeal Base: Pour half of the oat mixture into the prepared baking pan and smooth it out evenly. Then sprinkle half of the blueberries over this layer to create a fruity base.
- Add Remaining Oats and Pour Wet Mixture: Add the remaining oat mixture over the blueberries and smooth out. Pour the egg and milk mixture evenly over the entire pan, then lightly press the oats down to ensure they are all soaked and covered by the liquid.
- Top with Blueberries and Pecans: Evenly distribute the remaining blueberries and reserved chopped pecans on top of the soaked oatmeal mixture for added texture and flavor.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and the oatmeal is set.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the baked oatmeal from the oven and let it cool and set for 10 to 15 minutes before serving to enhance texture and flavor.
- Storage and Reheating: Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Reheat in a microwave for 30 to 60 seconds before serving, or reheat in the oven at 375°F for 10 to 15 minutes if desired.
Notes
- To make this breakfast casserole ahead, bake and let it fully cool before storing covered in the fridge.
- Reheat in the microwave for 30 to 60 seconds or bake covered at 375°F for 10-15 minutes to warm.
- Don’t overbake; the goal is a creamy, crunchy, and soft texture, not dry.
- Top with your favorite Greek yogurt for extra creaminess and protein boost.
- Not a fan of blueberries? Substitute with other fresh fruits, chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or peanut butter.
- Try it as a dessert by adding a scoop of ice cream or frozen yogurt on top when served warm.
- To make gluten-free, use certified gluten-free oats instead of regular old fashioned oats.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1/12th of the recipe)
- Calories: 253.4 kcal
- Sugar: 19.5 g
- Sodium: 196.3 mg
- Fat: 8.2 g
- Saturated Fat: 4.7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12.4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 29.4 g
- Fiber: 4.3 g
- Protein: 6.3 g
- Cholesterol: 46.4 mg