Barbara’s Baked Oatmeal

From the kitchen of: Barbara Williamson (Columbia, MO)

Barbara Williamson has always loved cooking, but is doing far less of it in retirement. However, when she does cook, she considers factors such as the refrigerator or freezer “shelf life” of a dish. That way, daily meals become less of a production, as there is always something in the refrigerator or freezer to which a veggie or salad can be added. Another major consideration is versatility or adaptability of a dish.

The Baked Oatmeal is a perfect example. This dish can be served hot or cold, and with or without nuts. Also, many of the recipe ingredients can be substituted for others of one’s choice.

Baked Oatmeal

(Serves 8 people)

Ingredients 

• 2 cups old-fashioned oatmeal

• 2/3 cups light brown sugar

• 1 cup chopped (black) walnuts or pecans

• 3/4 cup raisins (or dried cranberries)

• 1 t baking powder

• 2 t cinnamon

• 1/4 t salt

• 2 large eggs

• 2 cups milk (or milk alternative)

• 2 t vanilla extract

• 4 T unsalted butter, melted

• 2-3 baking apples (of your choice), peeled and diced (about 2 cups)

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Grease an 8- or 9-inch baking dish with butter or use nonstick spray.

In a medium bowl, mix together oats, brown sugar, 1/2 cup of the nuts, raisins, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.

In small bowl,whisk the eggs, then whisk in milk and vanilla extract. Add milk mixture to oat mixture, then add melted butter. Mix well.

Place apples on bottom of prepared baking dish (using butter or nonstick spray). Pour oatmeal over apples, and spread evenly. Sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup nuts on top of oatmeal mixture.

Bake 45 minutes at 325 degrees until golden brown. Serve water or at room temperature.

*This dish can be served warm as a breakfast entree, or cold with a scoop of ice cream and enjoyed at any time of day!