Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Nutrient-Dense: Flaxseeds and walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, promoting heart health and reducing inflammation.
Natural Sweetness: Sweetened with dates and applesauce, this recipe avoids processed sugars, offering a healthier alternative.
Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal ingredients, this baked oatmeal is quick to make.
Customizable: Feel free to adjust the sweetness or add other fruits to suit your taste.
Single Serving: Perfectly portioned for one, eliminating leftovers and ensuring freshness.
Versatile: Enjoy it as a hearty breakfast or a satisfying snack.
Meal Prep Friendly: Prepare in advance and store for a quick meal on busy mornings.

Ingredients

⅔ cup rolled oats (use gluten-free if gluten-sensitive)
2 teaspoons ground flaxseeds
2 tablespoons unsweetened applesauce
1 teaspoon lemon zest (packed), plus ½ teaspoon for garnish
1½ teaspoons lemon juice
½ cup frozen or fresh blueberries
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pinch of ground cardamom (optional, but recommended)
3 tablespoons Simple Homemade Date Syrup
⅔ cup plain unsweetened plant-based milk (e.g., soy or almond milk)
1 tablespoon chopped walnuts

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (180°C).
Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine all ingredients except the chopped walnuts. Stir well to incorporate. Taste the mixture and adjust the sweetness or spices as desired
Prepare Baking Dish: Pour the oatmeal batter into a small glass or individual ceramic container.
Add Walnuts: Sprinkle the chopped walnuts on top.
Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the top is slightly browned.
Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with the remaining lemon zest, and enjoy warm.

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe yields one serving.
Preparation Time: Approximately 10 minutes.
Baking Time: 30 minutes.
Total Time: 40 minutes.

Variations

Sweetness: Adjust the amount of date syrup or add a touch of maple syrup to suit your taste.
Nuts: Substitute walnuts with almonds or pecans for a different flavor.
Spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for added warmth.
Fruit: Swap blueberries with raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: This baked oatmeal freezes well in an airtight container for up to four months. Reheat frozen leftovers at reduced power in the microwave or thaw in the refrigerator and warm in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 7 minutes

FAQs

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

While quick oats can be used, rolled oats provide a better texture and hold up better during baking.

Can I use a different type of plant-based milk?

Yes, almond, oat, or coconut milk can be substituted for soy milk.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. Prepare multiple servings and store them in the refrigerator or freezer for convenient breakfasts throughout the week.

Can I omit the flaxseeds?

Flaxseeds add healthy omega-3 fatty acids and help bind the mixture. If omitted, consider adding a tablespoon of chia seeds or an extra tablespoon of oats.

Can I use fresh blueberries instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh blueberries can be used in place of frozen ones.

Conclusion

This Lemon Blueberry Baked Oatmeal for One is a delightful and nutritious way to start your day. Its combination of tangy lemon and sweet blueberries, along with wholesome ingredients like flaxseeds and walnuts, makes it a satisfying and energizing breakfast option. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal or preparing for the week ahead, this recipe offers both convenience and flavor.

Lemon Blueberry Baked Oatmeal for One