Ready in: 40 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Baking · Storage: Airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.
Quick Answer
This recipe lets you whip up delicious Reese's Pieces Peanut Butter Baked Oats effortlessly, perfect for a cozy start to your day.
As the hustle and bustle of the holiday season unfolds in New York City, the joy of sharing tasty treats with loved ones becomes even sweeter. One of my favorite go-to breakfasts is this Reese's Pieces Peanut Butter Baked Oats. It's not only delicious but also a fantastic way to infuse your mornings with a comforting touch of peanut butter and chocolate. The heavenly aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake is a wonderful reminder that the holidays are just around the corner!
A Cozy Holiday Treat
This delightful recipe is perfect for holiday brunches or a quick breakfast before heading out for festive celebrations. Not only is it an indulgent way to start your day, but it also makes for a fantastic make-ahead dish, allowing you to enjoy the season's flavors with ease and convenience.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy mornings or last-minute brunch gatherings.
- Rich, creamy peanut butter flavor combined with the sweetness of Reese's Pieces creates a delightful treat.
- Customizable: Swap in your favorite mix-ins or toppings to cater to your taste preferences.
- Healthy breakfast option packed with fiber and protein to keep you energized throughout the day.
- Great for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious baked oats throughout the week.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create a delicious batch of Reese's Pieces Peanut Butter Baked Oats.
Base Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup milk (or a non-dairy alternative)
- ¼ cup creamy peanut butter
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
Add-Ins:
- ½ cup Reese's Pieces candies
Optional Toppings:
- Additional peanut butter
- Banana slices
- A drizzle of chocolate
How to Make Reese's Pieces Peanut Butter Baked Oats (Step-by-Step)
Follow these easy steps to create your delightful baked oats.
Step 1: Preheat your oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare the mixture. The warmth will bring a cozy touch to your kitchen, especially as we inch closer to the holiday season.
Step 2: Mix the base
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the rolled oats, milk, creamy peanut butter, maple syrup, mashed banana, vanilla extract, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Use a sturdy whisk to blend together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. I love how the peanut butter swirls into the oats, creating a luscious, nutty aroma that fills the room.
Step 3: Incorporate the fun
Carefully fold in the Reese's Pieces candies, letting their vibrant colors stand out in the mix. This is where the excitement builds-I can hardly wait to dig in!
Step 4: Pour and bake
Grease a baking dish (an 8x8-inch square dish works perfectly) with a touch of oil or butter. Pour the oats mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. You know it's ready when the top is lightly golden and the center has a slight jiggle, releasing the warm, sweet fragrance of peanut butter and chocolate that will beckon everyone into the kitchen.
Step 5: Cool and serve
Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes. This baked oats dish can be served warm with optional toppings like more peanut butter, banana slices, or even a drizzle of chocolate to elevate it for the holidays.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the soaking time: If you don't let the oats soak long enough in the liquid, they won't achieve the perfect chewy texture.
- Using natural peanut butter: While it sounds healthier, the consistency of natural peanut butter can lead to a drier baked oat, so creamy peanut butter is your best bet for this recipe.
- Overbaking: Keep an eye on the baking time, as you want the center to stay slightly soft for that gooey texture.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- For a fun twist, swap out the Reese's Pieces for your favorite chocolate chips or seasonal M&Ms, especially as we gear up for Christmas festivities.
- If you're feeding a crowd, feel free to double the recipe and bake it in a larger dish. Just remember to adjust the baking time accordingly.
- Always grease the baking dish well to ensure easy serving and cleanup.
- Let the baked oats cool slightly before cutting to ensure they hold their shape.
Variations
- Substitute almond milk or oat milk for a non-dairy option.
- Use crunchy peanut butter for added texture.
- Incorporate different types of nuts or seeds for extra nutrition.
- Swap banana for applesauce for a different flavor profile.
How to Serve
- Top with additional peanut butter for a rich finish.
- Add banana slices or fresh berries for a fruity touch.
- Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce for a decadent dessert.
- Serve warm, either on its own or with a scoop of yogurt for added creaminess.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the mixture the night before and store in the fridge before baking in the morning.
- Storage: These baked oats can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for a quick breakfast or snack.
- Freezing: Baked oats can be frozen for up to three months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility; you can easily customize the flavors while maintaining the comforting essence of baked oats. Plus, it's a delightful way to relish peanut butter and chocolate at breakfast without any guilt!
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: 1 piece
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~220 calories · 6g protein · 30g carbs · 9g fat
Recipe by:
Reese's Pieces Peanut Butter Baked Oats
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the rolled oats, milk, creamy peanut butter, maple syrup, mashed banana, vanilla extract, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
- Carefully fold in the Reese's Pieces candies.
- Grease a baking dish and pour the mixture into it, spreading evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden and the center has a slight jiggle.
- Cool for a few minutes and serve warm with optional toppings.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats, but the texture may be slightly different. Rolled oats provide a chewier consistency, while quick oats may result in a softer dish.
2. Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! To make this recipe vegan, simply use a non-dairy alternative for the milk and ensure your peanut butter and any optional toppings are also dairy-free.
3. How can I make the baked oats gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure that you use certified gluten-free rolled oats and double-check that all other ingredients, like baking powder, are also gluten-free.
4. Can I prepare the mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix the ingredients ahead of time and store the mixture in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to give it a good stir before baking.
5. What are some alternatives to Reese's Pieces?
You can substitute Reese's Pieces with chocolate chips, M&Ms, chopped nuts, or dried fruits for a different flavor profile. The key is to keep the fun and sweetness in the mix!
