Elevate your breakfast game with this delightful Apple Banana Baked Oatmeal with Nuts! This recipe brings together the goodness of oats, fresh fruits, and crunchy nuts, all baked to perfection for a comforting and nutritious morning meal. It’s a wholesome way to start your day with a burst of flavors and energy. Perfect for a busy morning or a relaxing weekend brunch, this dish is easy to prepare and loved by both kids and adults. Enjoy a hearty, balanced meal that will keep you full and energized throughout the day!
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Ingredients:
- Ground Oat Flakes: 100g (1 cup)
- Whole Oat Flakes: 50g (1/2 cup)
- Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon
- Apple: 1, chopped
- Banana: 1, mashed
- Coconut Oil (or your favorite oil): 2 tablespoons
- Nuts or Almonds: 25g (1/4 cup), chopped
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F). Grease a baking dish with a little coconut oil or your preferred oil. - Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground oat flakes, whole oat flakes, and cinnamon. - Add Fruits and Oil:
Add the chopped apple, mashed banana, and coconut oil to the oat mixture. Stir until everything is well combined. - Fold in Nuts:
Fold in the chopped nuts or almonds for added crunch and flavor. - Prepare for Baking:
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. - Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the mixture is set. - Cool and Serve:
Allow the baked oatmeal to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions:
- Top with a dollop of yogurt, a drizzle of honey, or a splash of milk for added creaminess.
- Sprinkle extra cinnamon or nutmeg on top for an aromatic touch.
- Serve with a side of fresh fruit like berries or sliced bananas.
- Pair with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a complete breakfast experience.
Cooking Tips:
- Use ripe bananas for a naturally sweeter flavor in the oatmeal.
- Feel free to customize with your favorite fruits, such as berries, peaches, or pears.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding a bit of maple syrup, agave, or brown sugar if desired.
- Add a handful of dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or dates for added texture and flavor.
Nutritional Benefits:
- High in Fiber: Oats and fruits provide a rich source of dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and keeping you full longer.
- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Apples, bananas, and nuts offer essential nutrients, including potassium, vitamin C, iron, and magnesium.
- Healthy Fats: Coconut oil and nuts contribute beneficial fats that support heart health and overall well-being.
- Low in Added Sugars: Naturally sweetened with fruits, this dish is low in added sugars and provides sustained energy.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: Contains no meat or meat products.
- Can be Made Vegan: Use plant-based oil and skip honey or dairy toppings.
- Gluten-Free Option: Ensure oats are certified gluten-free if necessary.
- Low in Added Sugar: Naturally sweetened with fruit.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, assuming 6 servings):
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 8g
- Calcium: 30mg
Storage Tips:
- Refrigerate: Store any leftover baked oatmeal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving to enjoy it warm.
- Freezing: This baked oatmeal can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy to Prepare: Perfect for busy mornings when you want a healthy, homemade breakfast without much effort.
- Nutritious and Satisfying: Offers a balanced combination of carbs, protein, and healthy fats that keep you energized.
- Kid-Friendly and Customizable: Easily adaptable to suit various tastes and dietary preferences.
- Delicious Flavor and Texture: The combination of oats, fruits, and nuts creates a delightful texture and a rich, comforting flavor.
Conclusion:
This Apple Banana Baked Oatmeal with Nuts is not just a breakfast dish; it’s a wholesome experience that brings together nutritious ingredients and delicious flavors. Whether you savor it warm with a sprinkle of cinnamon or enjoy it chilled with a dollop of yogurt, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your breakfast repertoire. Start your day right with a nourishing bowl of baked oatmeal that will keep you energized and satisfied. Make it a family favorite that’s easy to prepare and enjoy on any day of the week!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, but the texture will be different, and you may need to adjust the baking time and add more liquid. - Can I substitute the coconut oil with another oil?
Yes, you can use any oil of your choice, such as olive oil, canola oil, or melted butter. - How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use certified gluten-free oats to ensure the recipe is gluten-free. - Can I add protein powder to the recipe?
Yes, you can add a scoop of protein powder to the mixture for an extra protein boost. - Can I prepare this dish the night before?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture and store it in the fridge overnight, then bake it fresh in the morning. - What can I use as a banana substitute?
You can use unsweetened applesauce or mashed sweet potatoes as a substitute for bananas. - How can I make the oatmeal sweeter without adding sugar?
Use a very ripe banana or add a handful of raisins or dates to increase sweetness naturally. - Can I freeze individual portions for later?
Yes, cut the baked oatmeal into portions, wrap them, and freeze them for up to 2 months. - Can I use different nuts or seeds?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any nuts or seeds like walnuts, pecans, chia seeds, or sunflower seeds. - Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal prepping as it can be stored in the fridge or freezer and reheated as needed.