Strawberry Rhubarb Baked Oatmeal, Easy Rhubarb recipe You Must Try!

Strawberry Rhubarb Baked Oatmeal

Strawberry Rhubarb Baked Oatmeal is a delicious and wholesome breakfast option that combines the tartness of rhubarb with the sweetness of ripe strawberries. This baked oatmeal is not only flavorful but also nutritious, making it a perfect start to your day. The recipe is easy to prepare, and the combination of strawberries and rhubarb creates a sweet-tart balance that is irresistible. With a crispy top and a creamy interior, it’s a breakfast that will satisfy your cravings and keep you full throughout the morning.

In this article, we will guide you through the process of making this wonderful Strawberry Rhubarb Baked Oatmeal, share expert tips for perfect results, and provide creative twists and customization ideas so you can make it your own.

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

Rolled Oats
Rolled oats form the base of this baked oatmeal. They provide a hearty texture and are a good source of fiber, which helps keep you full longer. Oats also contribute to the creamy consistency of the dish when baked.

Rhubarb
Rhubarb is the star ingredient in this recipe, adding a tart flavor that complements the sweetness of the strawberries. It’s a low-calorie vegetable that’s high in fiber and antioxidants, making it a healthy addition to your breakfast.

Strawberries
Strawberries provide a natural sweetness and juiciness to balance out the tartness of rhubarb. They are packed with vitamin C and other antioxidants, adding both flavor and nutritional benefits to the dish.

Milk (or Non-Dairy Milk)
Milk is used to bind the oats together and create a creamy texture. You can use dairy or non-dairy milk, such as almond milk or oat milk, depending on your dietary preferences.

Eggs
Eggs help to bind the ingredients together and provide structure to the baked oatmeal. They also contribute to the dish’s fluffy texture.

Sweetener (Honey, Maple Syrup, or Brown Sugar)
A little bit of sweetener helps to balance the tartness of the rhubarb and gives the dish a pleasant sweetness. You can use maple syrup, honey, or brown sugar, depending on your preference.

Baking Powder
Baking powder helps the oatmeal to rise slightly and gives it a light, fluffy texture as it bakes.

Vanilla Extract
Vanilla extract adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the oatmeal, enhancing the natural flavors of the strawberries and rhubarb.

Cinnamon
Cinnamon adds warmth and spice to the dish, complementing the flavors of the strawberries and rhubarb perfectly.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: 45-50 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients of Strawberry Rhubarb Baked Oatmeal

2 cups rolled oats
1 cup rhubarb, chopped into small pieces
1 cup strawberries, chopped
2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
2 large eggs
1/4 cup maple syrup (or sweetener of choice)
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp baking powder
Pinch of salt
Optional: Fresh strawberries and rhubarb for garnish

Step-by-Step “Strawberry Rhubarb Baked Oatmeal” Cooking Instructions with Expert Tips

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or similar size with cooking spray or butter. Chop the strawberries and rhubarb into small pieces, making sure to remove any tough leaves from the rhubarb. Set them aside.

Expert Tip: If your rhubarb stalks are particularly large, cut them into smaller pieces to ensure they cook evenly and soften during baking.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until well combined. The eggs should be fully incorporated into the milk, and the mixture should be smooth.

Expert Tip: For a dairy-free version, use almond milk or oat milk as a substitute for regular milk. These non-dairy milks will still create a creamy texture in the baked oatmeal.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the rolled oats, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir to combine.

Expert Tip: Adding cinnamon to the dry ingredients ensures it is evenly distributed throughout the oatmeal, creating a consistent flavor.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add the dry oat mixture into the wet ingredients and stir until everything is well combined. The oats should be fully coated with the liquid mixture. Then, gently fold in the chopped strawberries and rhubarb, ensuring that the fruit is evenly spread throughout the batter.

Expert Tip: If you prefer a sweeter oatmeal, you can add an extra tablespoon of maple syrup or brown sugar to the batter.

Step 5: Bake the Oatmeal

Pour the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The oatmeal should be firm to the touch and slightly crispy on top.

Expert Tip: Keep an eye on the oatmeal during the last 10 minutes of baking. If it starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with foil to prevent overbaking.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the oatmeal is baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. Cut it into squares and serve warm. You can garnish with fresh strawberries and rhubarb for added flavor and decoration.

Expert Tip: If you like a creamier texture, top your oatmeal with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of milk before serving.

Presentation Tips

Serve the oatmeal in individual bowls and garnish with fresh strawberries and rhubarb slices for a vibrant and colorful presentation.
Consider topping the oatmeal with a dollop of Greek yogurt or whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch.
For a rustic feel, serve the oatmeal in cast-iron skillets or small baking dishes.

Creative Twists for the best “Strawberry Rhubarb Baked Oatmeal”

Nutty Oatmeal
For added crunch, sprinkle chopped nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, on top of the oatmeal before baking. These will toast as the oatmeal bakes, adding both flavor and texture.

Coconut Rhubarb Oatmeal
For a tropical twist, add shredded coconut to the batter or sprinkle it on top of the oatmeal before baking. The coconut adds richness and complements the tartness of the rhubarb beautifully.

Maple-Pecan Rhubarb Oatmeal
For a sweeter and nuttier flavor, swap the maple syrup for brown sugar and top the oatmeal with pecans before baking. The caramelized sugar and crunchy pecans make this variation irresistible.

Rhubarb Compote Topping
For an extra burst of rhubarb flavor, prepare a simple rhubarb compote by cooking rhubarb with sugar and a little water until it softens into a sauce. Spoon this compote over the oatmeal before serving for an added layer of flavor.

Pro Tip for Customization

You can customize Strawberry Rhubarb Baked Oatmeal in many ways to fit your dietary preferences or personal taste. Here are some ideas:

For a vegan version: Use flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water for each egg) instead of regular eggs, and choose a non-dairy milk, like almond or coconut milk.
For a sweeter oatmeal: Increase the maple syrup or add a bit of brown sugar to taste.
For extra protein: Add a scoop of protein powder or Greek yogurt to the mixture before baking to make this oatmeal more filling.

FAQs about Strawberry Rhubarb Baked Oatmeal

Can I make Strawberry Rhubarb Baked Oatmeal ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the oatmeal ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just bake it, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or in the oven before serving.

Can I use frozen strawberries or rhubarb?
Yes, frozen fruit works well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the oatmeal. This will help prevent the oatmeal from becoming too watery.

Can I make Strawberry Rhubarb Baked Oatmeal without eggs?
Yes, you can use a flax egg or chia egg as a substitute for the eggs. To make a flax egg, combine 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes to thicken.

How do I store leftover baked oatmeal?
Store any leftover oatmeal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply microwave individual servings or bake in the oven until warmed through.

Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries and rhubarb?
Absolutely! You can swap the strawberries and rhubarb for other fruits like blueberries, blackberries, or apples. The oats and baking time will work well with many different fruit combinations.

Strawberry Rhubarb Baked Oatmeal is a versatile and delicious breakfast dish that can be enjoyed by everyone. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious start to your day or a comforting treat to enjoy with family, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your breakfast rotation. Enjoy!