Baked Oatmeal with Berries

Combine the wet ingredients: Whisk the 2 cups milk, 2 large eggs, ¼ cup pure maple syrup, 3 tablespoons melted butter , and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract in a large bowl until well blended.

Stir in the dry ingredients: Add the 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Mix until everything is evenly coated and combined.

Add fruit and nuts: Gently fold in 1 cup quartered strawberries, ½ cup blueberries, ½ cup raspberries, and ¼ cup chopped pecans (if using). Don't overmix; simply stir until the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Transfer and rest: Pour the mixture into a greased 9x9-inch baking dish and smooth the top. Let it rest for 30 minutes. This allows the oats to absorb some of the liquid.

Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Sprinkle extra berries over the top (optional) and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the oatmeal is golden and set in the center.

Serve: Allow it to cool slightly before serving (about 10 minutes). Enjoy warm with a drizzle of maple syrup, a scoop of yogurt, and fresh berries.