Soft Baked Oatmeal Squares


Medically reviewed by Shahzadi Devje, Registered Dietitian (RD) & Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE)

Soft baked oatmeal squares are a great breakfast on the go. They’re easy to make and baked in 30 minutes. This recipe is packed full of nourishing ingredients like old fashioned oats and blueberries, and it’s sweetened with banana, maple syrup and apple sauce. These cereal oatmeal squares are vegetarian, gluten free and high in fibre. Plus, the one-bowl mixing makes the process really simple!

Plate of baked oatmeal squares cut into 6 pieces topped with blueberries and walnuts

I’m thrilled to share my recipe for soft baked oatmeal squares. It’s one of my regular grab-and-go breakfasts.

If you’ve got ripe bananas on hand, trust me, you can whip these up in no time.

I’ve been eating this baked oatmeal breakfast since I became a mommy 18 years ago. They’re one of my all-time favourite snacks as well. Plus, you can absolutely make them the night before to feed your busy mornings. Feel free to slice them differently to create baked oatmeal bars as well.

They’re delicious warm, or chilled!

Why these banana oatmeal squares are a great breakfast on the go

As a dietitian, my goal is to develop easy and healthy recipes that are balanced in nutrition. Complex carbohydrates for energy combined with adequate amounts of healthy fat and protein. All of which to help with blood sugar control (whether you have type 2 diabetes or not!) and to keep you feeling full for longer.

That’s why these soft baked oatmeal squares are such a great choice for a healthy breakfast on the go. They are packed full of nourishing ingredients like rolled oats, blueberries, and bananas. What’s more, there are no refined sugars because the oatmeal squares are sweetened with maple and apple sauce. They taste absolutely delicious!

flatlay shot of baked oatmeal squares (uncut) topped with blueberries and walnuts.

For me, a nutritious breakfast is an important component of a healthy lifestyle. A hearty breakfast fills your body with the energy and nutrients it needs to perform at its peak throughout the day.

And it isn’t only about eating breakfast or avoiding it, either.

Researchers investigated the links between breakfast skipping and health-related quality of life (HRQOL), stress and depression. The study found that eating a high-quality breakfast rather than simply having or not having breakfast was beneficial.

Those who ate a nutritious breakfast experienced improved HRQOL, less stress and depression than those who ate a poor or very low-quality breakfast.

Ingredients

Here’s a snapshot of the ingredients you need:

graphic showing ingredients needed to make baked oatmeal squares with accompanying labels.

Bananas: I used two small, fully ripe bananas in this baked oatmeal recipe. That’s because the squares are far superior in taste and sweetness when made with fully ripe bananas. For my community, focusing on healthy eating and diabetes, using fruits in baking is a strategic move. Fruits (like berries, apple or pear puree) add natural sweetness and dietary fibre, helping to minimize the amount of maple syrup used in the recipe. That’s because maple syrup is absorbed more quickly in your blood and can spike blood sugars.

Apple sauce: For sweetness, extra moisture, and it’s also inexpensive. Apple sauce or apple puree are a great way to cut back on the fat, too. Choose the unsweetened version instead of the sweetened one.

Maple syrup: Two tablespoons of pure maple syrup for a bit more sweetness and flavour.

Eggs: For binding, richness, and protein, use two whole eggs. Beat the eggs before adding to ensure uniform mixing.

Rolled oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats work like a charm for this baked oatmeal square recipe. To achieve the best texture and results, just be sure to not over-mix the rolled oats. Over-mixing can cause the oats to break, become too fine, and they won’t hold the oatmeal squares together as well.

Blueberries: Blueberries not only look beautiful baked into the oatmeal squares, but they’re also a great source of antioxidants. Fresh berries are preferable (to control the amount of moisture), and remember to stick to the stated amount to avoid soggy squares.

Vanilla: Vanilla extract gives a lovely flavour and helps to disguise the egg smell.

Cardamom: A sprinkling of freshly ground cardamom is a must! It’s floral and beautifully fragrant!

Walnuts: For crunch and plant-based protein, I add chopped walnuts. This is optional.

Instructions

step by step preparation images of how to make baked oatmeal squares in a mixing bowl
  1. Begin by preheating the oven. Then, line a loaf pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later (Image 1).
  2. Now it’s time to make the mixture: In a large bowl, add bananas and mash them with a fork (Image 2). Now, add the remaining wet ingredients (Images 3-6). You want to mix these thoroughly with a whisk, spatula or spoon.
  3. The second prep step is just as easy! Add the dry ingredients (Image 7). Carefully combine, being mindful not to over-mix.
  4. Once the ingredients are mixed, transfer the mixture to the loaf pan (Image 8).
  5. Now top with blueberries, and a sprinkle of oats and finally finish with chopped walnuts (Image 9).
  6. Time to bake! Send in the oven for 30 minutes.
  7. Once baked, remove the oatmeal loaf and set it aside to cool at room temperature (Image 10). Then slice and enjoy.

The ingredient measurements and step-by-step instructions are provided in the recipe card below.

someone holding a baked oatmeal square over a plate with five other squares topped with blueberries

Health benefits: rolled oats and diabetes

Rolled oats, which are healthy whole grains, are high in fibre and have a soluble fibre called β-glucan. Soluble fibres can help to reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood by acting as a bulking agent. β-glucan has also been found to aid in the prevention of diabetes.

Because rolled oats are considered to be a good source of dietary fibre, which slows digestion and absorption of carbohydrates, they help with blood sugar control.

What’s more, the bioactive phytochemicals in oats appear to go well beyond dietary fibre. They have significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

Oats have been proven to benefit human health by promoting immune and gut function. They’ve also shown to prevent diseases including atherosclerosis, eczema, and some types of cancer.

Atherosclerosis is a condition where the arteries accumulate plaque, which is a waxy substance that can slow or block blood flow. This can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. Heart healthy recipes are essential for overall good cardiovascular health.

Rolled oats also contain significant amounts of:

  • iron
  • magnesium
  • manganese
  • and selenium

These are all essential nutrients that can be hard to get in sufficient quantities when you’re trying to follow a healthy vegan diet.

perspective shot of baked oatmeal squares on a plate on top of a tea towel in front of a grey background

Tips and substitutions

It’s easy to make ingredient substitutions in baked oatmeal squares. Here are some tips and ideas you may want to try.

  • Use the ripest bananas possible for these baked oatmeal squares to have a sweet flavour.
  • If you prefer a vegan recipe, substitute the eggs for flax eggs instead.
  • Try using other fruits like strawberries, apricot, or rhubarb to change up the flavour profile.
  • You can also use store-bought or homemade pear puree, which is a great option for when pears are in season.
  • For some more depth and chocolate love, add a handful of dark chocolate chips or cacao nibs.
  • Make individual baked oatmeal cups by using a muffin pan instead of the loaf pan.
  • Add spices like ginger powder or pumpkin pie spice to garnish your baked oatmeal squares and give them an extra kick.
  • If you don’t have vanilla extract or want to change things up, use almond or coconut extract instead.
  • Get creative with the toppings! Consider adding chopped almonds, pecans, shredded coconut, chia/hemp seeds or chocolate chips.
  • To make baked oatmeal in a mug, simply pour half of the mixture into a microwave-safe mug and cook for about 2-4 minutes on high power.
  • Try swapping rolled oats for quinoa flakes if you’re looking for something with more bite and protein. The texture will simply be different.
Baked oatmeal squares topped with walnuts and blueberries staked on top of one another on a white plate.

Nutrition information

One serving of these baked oatmeal squares is:

  • An excellent source of fibre
  • A good source of vitamin C
  • A good source of iron
  • 24 g of net carbs

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet

Storage suggestions

These baked oatmeal squares are best kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store them with a piece of parchment between each square (just fold or cut up the one you used to make the recipe).

Frequently asked questions

Is baked oatmeal healthy?

Yes, baked oatmeal is a healthy breakfast or snack, especially if you pack it full of nutrient-rich ingredients (healthy wholegrain oats, fresh fruits, nuts, eggs) like we have in this recipe.

What happens if you eat oatmeal everyday?

There’s no evidence that eating oatmeal on a daily basis will have negative health effects.

Even though oats are considered to be an excellent source of dietary fibre, every person is different. Eating oatmeal on a regular basis – especially if you haven’t done so before – might result in digestive issues such as bloating, cramps, gas, or loose stools. Ideally, you want to start with modest amounts and work your way up to a daily intake.

Can you reheat baked oatmeal squares?

Yes! Simply heat them for 30-60 seconds in the microwave to warm them up and enjoy with your favourite hot beverage. I adore a baked oatmeal square with a piping hot cup of masala chai or golden milk latte.

Is baked oatmeal gluten free?

Yes, this baked oatmeal recipe is naturally gluten-free. However, always remember to check if the oats you use are certified gluten-free.

What’s your on the go breakfast? Have you tried healthy oatmeal squares before? Let me know in the comments below!

If you try this vegan protein shake, I would love to hear from you! Leave a comment, rate it, or share a photo and hashtag with #desiliciousrd on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter! I can’t wait to see your photos. 

Soft Baked Oatmeal Squares

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Soft baked oatmeal squares are a great breakfast on the go. They’re easy to make and baked in 30 minutes. This recipe is packed full of nourishing ingredients like old fashioned oats and blueberries, and it’s sweetened with banana, maple syrup and apple sauce. These cereal oatmeal squares are vegetarian, gluten free and high in fibre.

Prep Time10 mins

Cook Time30 mins

Total Time40 mins

Cuisine American

Servings: 6 squares

Plate of baked oatmeal squares cut into 6 pieces topped with blueberries

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper. Allow some overhang for easy removal later

  • In a large bowl, mash bananas with a fork

  • Add applesauce, maple, vanilla, cardamom and eggs and mix with a whisk, spatula or spoon

  • Add rolled oats and blueberries – reserving a few for the top. Carefully combine, being mindful not to over-mix

  • Once the ingredients are mixed, transfer the mixture to the loaf pan. Use the back of a spoon to gently flatten the top

  • Sprinkle the top with the saved blueberries, some oats and chopped walnuts

  • Send to bake (middle shelf) for 30 minutes

  • Once baked, remove the oatmeal loaf from the pan and set it aside to cool at room temperature. Then cut into six square slices and enjoy

Notes

Because this recipe is so versatile, it’s easy to make substitutions in baked oatmeal squares.

  • Use the ripest bananas possible for baked oatmeal squares to have a sweet flavour.
  • If you prefer a baked oatmeal square recipe that’s vegan, substitute the eggs for flax eggs instead.
  • Try using other fruits like strawberries, apricot, or rhubarb.
  • You can also use store-bought or homemade pear puree, which is a great option for when pears are in season.
  • For some more depth and chocolate love, add a handful of dark chocolate chips or cacao nibs.
  • Make individual baked oatmeal cups by using a muffin pan instead of the loaf pan.
  • Add spices like ginger powder or pumpkin pie spice to garnish baked oatmeal squares and give them an extra kick.
  • If you don’t have vanilla extract or want to alter the flavour profile, use almond or coconut extract instead.
  • Get creative with the toppings! Consider adding chopped almonds, pecans, shredded coconut, chia/hemp seeds or even chocolate chips.
  • To make baked oatmeal in a mug, simply pour half of the mixture into a microwave-safe mug and cook for about 2-4 minutes on high power.
  • Try swapping rolled oats for quinoa flakes if you’re looking for something with more bite and protein. The texture will simply be different.

Nutrition Facts

Soft Baked Oatmeal Squares

Amount Per Serving

Calories 163
Calories from Fat 45

% Daily Value*

Fat 5g8%

Saturated Fat 1g5%

Trans Fat 1g

Polyunsaturated Fat 2g

Monounsaturated Fat 1g

Cholesterol 55mg18%

Sodium 23mg1%

Potassium 273mg8%

Carbohydrates 27g9%

Fiber 3g12%

Sugar 11g12%

Protein 5g10%

Vitamin A 112IU2%

Vitamin C 5mg6%

Calcium 35mg4%

Iron 1mg6%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Please note the nutritional analysis values are estimates and suggestions. This nutrition facts table does not know your life – your body, including your hunger and satiety cues, change daily. It’s okay to eat more or less. Say no to food guilt and instead embrace mindful eating.





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