Winter-Spiced Baked Oatmeal with Pears & Cranberries

Ingredients:

• 2 cups rolled oats

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 2 cups milk (dairy or plant-based)

• 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey

• 1 egg (or flax egg for vegan option)

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 ripe pears, diced

• 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries

• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

• 1 tablespoon ghee or butter for greasing the dish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x9-inch baking dish with ghee or butter.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients:

   • In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

3. Mix Wet Ingredients:

   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, maple syrup or honey, egg, and vanilla extract.

4. Combine and Add Fruit:

   • Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until well combined. Fold in the diced pears, cranberries, and walnuts if using.

5. Bake:

   • Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the oatmeal is set.

6. Serve:

   • Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm, topped with a drizzle of maple syrup, a splash of milk, or additional walnuts for crunch.