Directions
<ol class="no-list-style"><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4>Preheat your oven to 180°C and line a 23cm square baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease the exposed sides of the dish. This preparation ensures your baked oatmeal won't stick and will lift out beautifully for serving.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4>In a large bowl, combine all the dry ingredients: rolled oats, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the leavening and spices throughout your oatmeal base.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4>In a separate bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: eggs, milk, maple syrup, melted butter, and vanilla extract until completely smooth. The eggs provide structure while the butter adds richness – make sure your melted butter has cooled slightly before adding to prevent cooking the eggs.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4>Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing as this can make your baked oatmeal tough. The mixture should look quite wet at this stage – don't worry, the oats will absorb much of the liquid during baking.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4>Fold in about two-thirds of your berries and nuts, distributing them evenly throughout the mixture. Reserve the remaining third for topping. If using frozen berries, add them directly from frozen – no need to thaw, but know that they may slightly increase the baking time.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4>Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Scatter the remaining berries and nuts on top, pressing them in slightly. This creates a beautiful top with visible fruit and adds textural contrast.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4>Bake for 32-38 minutes until the edges are slightly golden and the center is set but still slightly moist. The oatmeal should spring back lightly when touched. Watch carefully in the final minutes – overbaking will result in a dry texture.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 8</h4>Allow the baked oatmeal to cool in the dish for at least 10 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the oatmeal to set up properly and makes for cleaner slices. The oatmeal will continue to firm up as it cools.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 9</h4>Serve warm with a drizzle of additional maple syrup, a splash of milk, or a dollop of yogurt if desired. For meal prep, cool completely before cutting into squares and storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze individual portions for up to 3 months.</li></ol>