This Apple and Banana Baked Oatmeal with Nuts is a warm, comforting, and nutritious breakfast option that’s perfect for busy mornings. Packed with fiber from the oats and natural sweetness from the apples and bananas, it makes for a filling and energy-boosting meal. The addition of nuts gives it a lovely crunch while boosting the protein and healthy fat content. This baked oatmeal can be prepared in advance, making it an excellent option for meal prep.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
- Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups (180 g) rolled oats
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup (240 ml) milk (any variety)
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) maple syrup or honey
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Fruit & Nuts:
- 1 large apple, diced (about 1 ½ cups or 150 g)
- 1 ripe banana, mashed (about ½ cup or 120 g)
- ½ cup (60 g) mixed nuts (e.g., walnuts, almonds, or pecans)
- Optional: ½ cup (75 g) dried cranberries or raisins
- Toppings:
- 2 tbsp (20 g) chia seeds (optional for added fiber)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking dish.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine oats, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
- Mash the banana: In a small bowl, mash the ripe banana with a fork until smooth.
- Layer the ingredients: Stir the mashed banana into the wet mixture and then fold in the diced apple and nuts.
- Assemble: Pour the wet mixture into the dry oats and stir until well combined.
- Bake: Pour the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until golden brown and set in the center.
- Cool: Allow the oatmeal to cool for a few minutes before serving. Top with extra nuts or fresh fruit if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt for extra protein.
- Drizzle with additional maple syrup or honey for added sweetness.
- Pair with a glass of milk or a smoothie for a balanced breakfast.
- Top with fresh berries, such as strawberries or blueberries, for extra antioxidants.
- Serve warm with a sprinkle of ground flax seeds for added omega-3s.
Cooking Tips
- Use any milk you prefer: dairy, almond milk, or oat milk all work well in this recipe.
- For a vegan version, replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) and use a plant-based milk.
- If you prefer a sweeter oatmeal, you can add more maple syrup or honey to taste.
- You can substitute the nuts with seeds like sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds if you’re allergic to nuts.
- You can add spices like nutmeg or ginger to customize the flavor.
Nutritional Benefits
- Oats provide heart-healthy fiber and can help with cholesterol levels.
- Bananas are rich in potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and maintain proper muscle function.
- Apples provide vitamin C and are an excellent source of fiber, promoting digestive health.
- Nuts add healthy fats, protein, and fiber to help keep you full throughout the morning.
- Chia seeds are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein.
Dietary Information
- Calories per serving: 250-300 (depending on the type of milk and toppings used)
- Dietary preferences: Vegetarian, can be made vegan, gluten-free (if using certified gluten-free oats), dairy-free (with milk alternative)
Nutritional Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 8 g
- Carbs: 42 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Sugars: 15 g
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg
- Sodium: 100 mg
- Potassium: 450 mg
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.
- To reheat, microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute, or bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
- You can also freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. To freeze, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or place in a freezer-safe bag.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s super customizable: Add your favorite fruits, nuts, or seeds to make it your own.
- It’s a make-ahead breakfast: Prep it the night before and have a warm, satisfying meal ready for you in the morning.
- It’s a filling and healthy meal that will keep you energized throughout the day.
- It’s an easy, one-pan recipe with minimal cleanup required.
Conclusion
Apple and Banana Baked Oatmeal with Nuts is a deliciously wholesome breakfast that is sure to please everyone in the family. With the natural sweetness of fruit, the creaminess of oats, and the crunch of nuts, it’s the perfect balance of textures and flavors. It’s quick to prep, easy to bake, and great for meal prep, making it a fantastic choice for busy mornings. Plus, it’s highly customizable, so you can enjoy it your way every time!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this recipe without eggs?
Yes, you can replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) for a vegan version. - Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?
It’s best to use rolled oats for this recipe. Instant oats may turn out too mushy and not give the same texture. - Can I use frozen fruit?
Yes, frozen apples or bananas can be used. Just make sure to thaw them before using. - Can I freeze the baked oatmeal?
Yes, you can freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or use a freezer-safe container. - What nuts are best for this recipe?
Walnuts, almonds, or pecans work best, but you can also use a mixture or any nut of your choice. - Can I skip the sugar or syrup?
Yes, you can omit the sweetener or replace it with mashed dates for a natural sweetness. - How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply use certified gluten-free oats in place of regular oats. - Can I add more fruits?
Absolutely! Feel free to add berries, pears, or even dried fruit like raisins or cranberries. - Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?
While it’s a healthy option, it’s not specifically low-carb due to the oats and fruit. For a low-carb version, you could try using flaxseed meal or chia seeds in place of oats. - Can I make this in advance?
Yes, this baked oatmeal is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare it the night before and simply bake it in the morning or store it in the fridge for a quick breakfast.