Lemon Blueberry Baked Oatmeal for One

Name: Lemon Blueberry Baked Oatmeal for One
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2/3 cup rolled oats ((use gluten-free if gluten-sensitive)); 2 tsp ground flaxseeds; 2 Tbsp unsweetened applesauce; 1 tsp lemon zest, (packed, plus 1/2 tsp for garnish); 1 1/2 tsp lemon juice; 1/2 cup frozen or fresh blueberries; 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon; small pinch of ground cardamom; 3 Tbsp Simple Homemade Date Syrup; 2/3 cup plain unsweetened almond milk ((or another plant-based milk)); 1 Tbsp chopped walnuts

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This mini, yet mighty vegan baked oatmeal for one is powered and packed with superfoods like flaxseeds and walnuts that will fuel your body throughout the day. Your taste buds will be dancing because of the chemistry between the blueberries and lemons. Unlike others, this vegan baked oatmeal is naturally sweetened with dates and applesauce, so you don’t get that midday sugar crash.

What You'll Need for This Lemon Blueberry Baked Oatmeal for One

Rolled oats (use gluten-free if gluten-sensitive)

Blueberries (frozen or fresh)

Lemon (both zest and juice)

Homemade Date Syrup

Unsweetened apple sauce

Ground flaxseed

Cinnamon, ground

Cardamom, ground (optional, but recommended)

Unsweetened, plain almond milk

Walnuts

top view of ingredients in a mixing bowl

Substitutions and Variations

Plant-based milk swap: feel free to use soy milk for a protein boost, or homemade almond milk for a clean, rich flavor. Oat milk and coconut milk will work too!

Want more texture? Toss in chia seeds or pumpkin seeds.

Mix up the nuts: Feel free to swap walnuts for chopped pecans or sliced almonds for a similar crunch, slight flavor shift.

How to Make Baked Oatmeal for One

Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).

Combine all ingredients, except the chopped walnuts, into a mixing bowl. Stir well to incorporate. Feel free to taste the mixture and add more date syrup, lemon juice, lemon zest, and spices to taste.

Pour the oatmeal batter into a small glass or individual ceramic container. I used a meal prep container (without the lid). The batter will look a little "soupy" at first, but as it bakes, the oats and ground flaxseeds will absorb the moisture from the plant-based milk, apple sauce, and date syrup.

Add chopped walnuts to the top.

Bake at 350°F (180°C) for 30 minutes or until slightly browned on top. Enjoy!

top view close up of lemon blueberry baked oatmeal batter in a glass meal prep container

Recipe FAQs

Are baked oats healthier than oatmeal?

Both are equally healthy, but it really all depends on what you add to your oatmeal. This recipe adds flaxseeds which are high in omega-3 fatty acids and are also linked to cancer prevention. The blueberries in this baked oatmeal also boost the nutritional value, as blueberries are high in antioxidants, which promote overall health. This vegan baked oatmeal uses applesauce and Homemade Date Syrup instead of processed sugar, making this dish exceptionally healthy. So yes, both are healthy if you use the right ingredients!

Do baked oats make you gain weight?

If you “bake” your oatmeal right, it can help you lose weight or maintain your healthy weight. This lemon blueberry baked oatmeal recipe does just that! This is because oatmeal has fiber that keeps you satiated throughout the day and promotes a healthy gut. Oatmeal also has other nutrients like magnesium, vitamin B1, and iron. Adding fresh fruits, dates, and applesauce instead of sugar is another way to avoid weight gain.

How do I store leftovers?

If you do happen to have leftovers, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This baked oatmeal freezes well in an airtight container for up to four months. Reheat frozen leftover baked oatmeal at reduced power in the microwave. Alternatively, thaw in the refrigerator, then warm up in the oven for 7 minutes at 350°F (180°C).

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