Mince Pie Baked Oats
Start your day with a comforting bowl of Mince Pie Baked Oats – a warm and flavorful breakfast that combines the sweetness of figs and the festive taste of mincemeat. This dish is the perfect way to welcome the morning.
With just a handful of ingredients, including oats, maple syrup, and Greek yogurt, you can easily create a nourishing and satisfying meal. A touch of cinnamon adds warmth, while the mincemeat gives it that special holiday flair.
Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with cranberry sauce and orange zest, these baked oats are sure to become a breakfast favorite. A cozy, wholesome treat for any time of year!
Mince Pie Baked Oats: Ingredients
Oats serve as the hearty base of this dish, offering a naturally gluten-free foundation. Their mild flavor pairs perfectly with the sweet spices and fruit.
Maple syrup adds a gentle sweetness, enhancing the warmth of the cinnamon and balancing the richness of the mincemeat.
Eggs provide structure and moisture, creating a light, fluffy texture when baked, while Greek yogurt brings creaminess to the finished dish, offering a tangy contrast to the sweetness.
Mince Pie Baked Oats: Enhancements
Recipe Tips
- Customize Your Fruit Add-ins: While dried figs and mincemeat create a wonderful combination, don’t hesitate to experiment with other fruits. Try swapping the figs for dried apricots, raisins, or even fresh berries for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a more festive twist, consider adding a handful of chopped dates or cranberries for a seasonal touch.
- Achieve a Fluffier Texture: For extra fluffiness in your baked oats, use a hand whisk to combine the eggs, milk, and maple syrup before adding them to the oat mixture. This will incorporate more air into the batter, making the oats rise beautifully as they bake. You can also allow the mixture to sit for 10 minutes before baking, giving the oats a bit of time to absorb the liquid.
- Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on your oats as they bake. Overbaking can result in a dry texture. When the oats are slightly risen and golden on top, they’re ready to come out. The middle should still have a slight jiggle when you gently shake the ramekin, ensuring a moist, creamy interior.
What to Serve with Mince Pie Baked Oats
- Fresh Fruit Salad: Complement the warm, spiced oats with a refreshing, vibrant fruit salad. A mix of citrus fruits, such as oranges and pomegranates, will offer a zesty contrast to the richness of the oats. You could also add a handful of fresh mint leaves for a burst of freshness.
- Chai Latte or Herbal Tea: A warming beverage like a chai latte or cinnamon-spiced herbal tea perfectly matches the cozy flavor of the mince pie baked oats. The gentle spices in the drink complement the cinnamon in the dish, making for a comforting and satisfying breakfast or brunch.
- Nuts and Seeds: For added texture and crunch, serve your oats with a sprinkle of toasted nuts like almonds, pecans, or walnuts. A handful of pumpkin seeds or chia seeds would also be a great addition for an extra nutrient boost. These toppings provide contrast to the soft, baked oats and offer healthy fats and protein.
FAQ
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the oats the night before. After blending the oat mixture and adding the figs and mincemeat, cover the dishes and refrigerate them overnight. In the morning, simply bake for 25 minutes as directed.
- Can I use a non-dairy milk alternative? Absolutely! You can substitute the milk with almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Just ensure the alternative you choose is unsweetened to maintain the balance of flavors.
- What can I use if I don’t have mincemeat? If mincemeat is unavailable, you can replace it with a homemade mixture of finely chopped dried fruits (like raisins, sultanas, or currants), a little cinnamon, nutmeg, and a dash of brandy or apple juice. This will provide a similar sweet, spiced flavor.
- Can I make these baked oats gluten-free? Yes, simply ensure that all ingredients are gluten-free. Use certified gluten-free oats and check that your baking powder and mincemeat are also gluten-free. This recipe is already a great option for those with gluten sensitivities when the right ingredients are used.
Mince Pie Baked Oats
A delightful breakfast treat, perfect for starting the day on a cozy note. For a different flavor variation, feel free to swap the mincemeat for cranberry sauce and the figs for orange zest.
Ingredients
- 100 g gluten-free oats
- 1 tsp gluten-free baking powder
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon plus extra for dusting
- 2 medium eggs
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 100 ml milk
- 75 g dried figs chopped
- 3 tbsp mincemeat*
- 4 tbsp Greek yogurt to serve
Instructions
- Begin by preheating the oven to 180°C (fan 160°C, gas mark 4) and greasing two small baking dishes or large ramekins. In a blender, pulse the oats until they achieve a flour-like consistency. Then, add the baking powder, cinnamon, eggs, maple syrup, and milk. Blend again until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
- Stir in the chopped figs and 2 tablespoons of the mincemeat. Divide the mixture evenly between the prepared baking dishes, then top with the remaining tablespoon of mincemeat. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 25 minutes or until the oats are slightly puffed and golden. Once done, serve warm with a generous dollop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of cinnamon. *Ensure that the mincemeat used is both vegetarian and/or gluten-free if necessary.
