Introduction

Strawberry Rhubarb Baked Oatmeal is a comforting and nutritious breakfast that combines the tangy freshness of rhubarb with sweet strawberries. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for busy mornings or a cozy weekend brunch.

The image shows a white square baking dish filled with a single-layer oat and strawberry crumble that has been cut into nine squares, with one square missing from the bottom left corner. The top layer is a golden-brown oat mixture with visible pieces of red strawberries baked inside. Surrounding the dish are fresh whole and halved strawberries scattered on a white marbled surface, with a pink cloth to the left and a small white pitcher with sauce or syrup near the top left corner. In the bottom right of the image, a white speckled plate holds one square of the crumble topped with a dollop of white cream and two halved fresh strawberries, next to a gold fork. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 very ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 cup)
1 ½ cups unsweetened almond milk, or milk of choice
¼ cup maple syrup
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups rolled oats (gluten-free if needed)
2 tablespoons chia seeds
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon salt
1 cup strawberries, chopped (fresh or frozen)
½ cup rhubarb, chopped (fresh or frozen)

Optional Streusel Topping:

2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
½ cup rolled oats
2 tablespoons coconut sugar or brown sugar
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon

For serving (optional):

Vanilla yogurt, or yogurt of choice
Strawberries
Maple syrup to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease an 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) baking dish.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until creamy. Stir in the almond milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until combined.
Step 3: Add the rolled oats, chia seeds, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt to the bowl. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
Step 4: Gently fold in the chopped strawberries and rhubarb, being careful not to crush the fruit.
Step 5: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer. If desired, scatter some extra strawberries and rhubarb on top for added texture and color.
Step 6 (optional): To make the streusel topping, combine melted coconut oil, rolled oats, coconut sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Sprinkle evenly over the oatmeal mixture before baking.
Step 7: Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the oatmeal is set in the center.
Step 8: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Add vanilla yogurt, fresh strawberries, and a drizzle of maple syrup if desired.

Tips & Variations

Use frozen fruit if fresh strawberries or rhubarb are out of season; just thaw slightly before folding in.
Swap chia seeds for flaxseeds for a different texture and added omega-3s.
For a nutty flavor, add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans to the topping or the batter.
Make it vegan by using plant-based yogurt and maple syrup instead of honey if preferred.

Storage

Store leftover baked oatmeal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

A square oat bar with a rough, crunchy texture sits in the center of a round white plate with a speckled rim. On top of the oat bar is a thick dollop of creamy white yogurt, drizzled with shiny golden syrup. Three fresh strawberry halves with bright red flesh and green leaves rest partly on the yogurt and oat bar, adding a pop of color. A gold fork lies diagonally on the plate, below the oat bar. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface with scattered oat pieces and a pink cloth partially visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh rhubarb and strawberries instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh strawberries and rhubarb work beautifully in this recipe. Just chop them and fold directly into the mixture. If using frozen, thaw slightly and drain excess liquid to avoid a soggy texture.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

This baked oatmeal can be gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free rolled oats. Make sure to check the packaging to avoid cross-contamination.