This hearty baked oatmeal with apple, banana, and nuts is the perfect comfort breakfast! It’s wholesome, easy to make, and full of natural sweetness and flavor.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 1 cup oatmeal (plus an additional 1 cup)
- 150 ml warm milk (about 2/3 cup)
- 1 apple, diced
- 20 g butter (about 1 ½ tablespoons)
- 2 eggs
- 50 g nuts, chopped (about 1/2 cup)
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil (for greasing)
- 2 bananas, mashed
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- A pinch of vanilla extract
Instructions
- Soak the Oats: In a bowl, combine 1 cup of oatmeal with the warm milk. Let it sit for 10 minutes to soften.
- Cook the Apple: While the oats soak, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced apple and sauté until tender, about 5 minutes.
- Prepare the Batter: In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, then add the soaked oatmeal, cooked apple, chopped nuts, mashed bananas, cinnamon, and a pinch of vanilla. Mix until everything is well combined.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat the oven to 180°C (360°F). Grease a baking dish with avocado oil.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the oatmeal is golden and set.
- Serve: Allow the baked oatmeal to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!
Serving Suggestions
- Drizzle with maple syrup or honey for extra sweetness.
- Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
- Add fresh berries on top for a burst of flavor.
- Sprinkle with extra cinnamon before serving.
- Pair with a glass of warm milk or your favorite hot beverage.
Cooking Tips
- Letting the oatmeal soak in warm milk makes it creamier.
- Substitute almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
- Use a mix of nuts like walnuts, almonds, or pecans for a richer taste.
- For extra sweetness, add a tablespoon of maple syrup or honey to the batter.
- Use rolled oats for the best texture; instant oats may be too soft.
Nutritional Benefits
- Oats: Provide fiber and energy, supporting digestive health.
- Apples and Bananas: Offer natural sweetness, fiber, and vitamins.
- Nuts: Add healthy fats and protein for lasting satiety.
- Eggs: Contribute protein and essential nutrients.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian
- Can be made dairy-free with plant-based milk and oil.
- Gluten-free if certified gluten-free oats are used.
Nutritional Facts (per serving)
- Calories: ~220
- Protein: 6 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Fiber: 4 g
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze individual portions for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
- Reheat: Warm in the microwave or oven before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy mornings.
- Packed with wholesome ingredients for lasting energy.
- Naturally sweetened with apples, bananas, and a hint of cinnamon.
- Freezes well for meal prep and busy mornings.
- Comforting, filling, and great for the whole family.
Conclusion
This baked oatmeal is a delightful way to start your morning, with the natural sweetness of apples and bananas and a comforting cinnamon aroma. It’s nutritious, easy to prepare, and versatile enough to enjoy hot or cold. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack, it’s bound to become a family favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this recipe vegan? Yes, substitute eggs with a flaxseed or chia egg, and use plant-based milk.
- Can I add other fruits? Absolutely! Blueberries, strawberries, or pears would work well.
- Can I prepare this ahead of time? Yes, you can make it the night before and store it in the fridge to bake in the morning.
- What kind of nuts work best? Walnuts, almonds, or pecans add great flavor and texture.
- How can I make it sweeter? Add a tablespoon of honey, maple syrup, or brown sugar to the batter.