Introduction
If you’re looking for a delicious and wholesome breakfast option, these baked oatmeal cups are the perfect solution. Packed with nutritious ingredients like rolled oats, fresh peaches, and a hint of honey, they provide a delightful start to your day. Easy to prepare and delightful to eat, they make for a great on-the-go meal or a cozy weekend brunch.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 2 ½ cups old-fashioned rolled oats
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon cinnamon
– ½ teaspoon kosher salt
– 2 large eggs
– ¾ cup milk
– ½ cup cream, plus more for drizzling
– ½ cup applesauce
– ¼ cup honey
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 to 3 peaches, diced (unpeeled)
Prep Time
Approximately 10 minutes to prepare the ingredients and mix the batter.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
– Cook Time: 25 minutes
– Total Time: 35 minutes
– Yield: 12 oatmeal cups
Enjoy these delightful baked oatmeal cups warm, drizzled with cream, or topped with your favorite nuts for an added crunch. They can be stored in the refrigerator for a quick breakfast option throughout the week!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, lightly grease a muffin tin with nonstick baking spray to ensure easy removal of the oatmeal cups later.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a small bowl, mix together the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and kosher salt. Stir until the dry ingredients are well combined.
Step 3: Prepare Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until they are frothy. Then, add the milk, cream, applesauce, honey, and vanilla extract. Continue to whisk until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Once combined, gently fold in the diced peaches, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Step 5: Distribute the Mixture
Using a spoon or a scoop, evenly distribute the oatmeal mixture among the 12 muffin cups in the greased muffin tin.
Step 6: Bake
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 25 minutes, or until the oatmeal cups are set in the middle and have a golden-brown top.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
After baking, remove the muffin tin from the oven and allow the oatmeal cups to cool slightly. If desired, drizzle the cups with additional cream, sprinkle with nuts like sliced almonds or chopped pecans, and add a touch more honey before serving.
Notes
Oats Selection
Use old-fashioned rolled oats for the best texture. Quick oats may result in a mushier consistency.
Peach Alternatives
If peaches are out of season or unavailable, you can substitute with other fruits such as diced apples, pears, or berries.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Reheat in the microwave before serving.
Customizations
Feel free to customize the recipe by adding nuts, seeds, or chocolate chips for additional flavor and texture.
Cook techniques
Mixing Dry Ingredients
Use a small bowl to combine the oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and kosher salt. Ensure that these ingredients are mixed evenly to prevent clumping and to distribute the leavening agent and spices throughout the mixture.
Whisking Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, applesauce, honey, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well integrated. This step helps to incorporate air into the batter, which aids in rising during baking.
Combining Ingredients
When merging the dry and wet ingredients, stir until just combined. This technique minimizes gluten development, resulting in a tender texture for the oatmeal cups.
Folding in Fruit
Gently fold in the diced peaches after combining the dry and wet mixtures. This method ensures that the fruit is evenly distributed without breaking it down too much, maintaining its texture.
Baking
Evenly distribute the mixture into muffin cups and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as the baking time can vary slightly based on your oven.
Drizzling and Topping
After baking, consider drizzling the cups with additional cream and sprinkling some nuts or a bit more honey on top for enhanced flavor and presentation.
FAQ
Can I substitute the eggs in this recipe?
Yes, you can replace the eggs with a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) or use applesauce as an additional wet ingredient.
What can I use instead of peaches?
You can substitute peaches with other fruits, such as diced apples, berries, or pears, depending on your preference.
Can I make these oatmeal cups ahead of time?
Yes, these oatmeal cups can be made ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze them for longer storage.
How do I know when the oatmeal cups are done baking?
The oatmeal cups are done when they are set in the center and golden brown on top. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
How should I store leftover oatmeal cups?
Store leftover oatmeal cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or you can freeze them in a single layer and transfer them to a freezer bag for longer storage.
Conclusion
These delightful peach oatmeal cups are an excellent way to enjoy a nutritious breakfast or snack. With the combination of rolled oats, fresh peaches, and a touch of sweetness, they pack a flavorful punch while providing a good source of fiber and energy. Easy to make and perfect for meal prep, these oatmeal cups can be customized to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Peach and Berry Oatmeal Cups
Combine diced peaches with mixed berries like blueberries or raspberries for a burst of flavor and added nutrients.
Nutty Oatmeal Cups
Incorporate chopped nuts such as walnuts or almonds into the batter for extra crunch and healthy fats.
Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cups
Fold in a handful of dark chocolate chips for a rich and indulgent treat that satisfies your sweet tooth.
Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Cups
Substitute peaches with diced apples and add additional cinnamon for a classic combination that evokes the flavors of apple pie.
Banana Nut Oatmeal Cups
Replace the applesauce with mashed bananas and add walnuts for a delightful banana bread-inspired twist.
Savory Oatmeal Cups
For a unique variation, omit the sweet ingredients and add in chopped spinach, feta cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes for a savory option.
Peach Coconut Oatmeal Cups
Mix in shredded coconut for a tropical touch that pairs wonderfully with the natural sweetness of the peaches.
