This hearty oatmeal bake is a perfect breakfast or snack that’s packed with flavor and nutrients. It’s a great way to start your day with a satisfying and healthy meal. The combination of rolled oats, apples, and cinnamon creates a warm and comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Preparation Time:
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (100g) rolled oats
- 3 medium apples, grated
- 1/2 cup (120ml) water
- 1 banana, mashed
- 3.5 oz (100g) dried cranberries, rinsed
- 3.5 oz (100g) raisins, rinsed
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/2 cup (50g) your favorite nuts
Directions:
- Prep the Fruit:
- Grate the apples and mash the banana. Rinse the cranberries and raisins.
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, combine the oats, baking powder, and cinnamon.
- Mix Everything Together:
- Combine the wet ingredients, dry ingredients, and all the fruit into a large bowl. Stir until well combined.
- Bake:
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle with your favorite nuts.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 360°F (180°C) for approximately 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown and set.
- Serve:
- Serve warm with Greek yogurt and fresh berries if desired.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm with a dollop of Greek yogurt and fresh berries.
- Enjoy as a snack with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup.
Cooking Tips:
- Customize: Feel free to add other fruits, nuts, or seeds to this recipe, such as blueberries, walnuts, or chia seeds.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the batter the night before and refrigerate. Bake as directed in the morning.
- Sweetener: If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can add a natural sweetener like maple syrup or honey.
Nutritional Benefits:
- This oatmeal bake is a great source of fiber, protein, and vitamins. Oats are a whole grain that provides sustained energy, while fruits and nuts add essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with fiber, protein, and vitamins.
- Versatile: Can be enjoyed as a breakfast, snack, or dessert.
- Customizable: Add your favorite fruits, nuts, and spices.
- Easy to Make: Requires minimal prep time and can be made ahead of time.
Dietary Information:
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free (ensure oats are certified gluten-free).
- Dairy-Free: No dairy in the recipe.
- Vegan: Replace eggs with flax or chia eggs for a vegan option.
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 200
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 18g
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 80mg
Storage:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
Why This Recipe Works:
- The combination of oats, fruits, and nuts creates a delicious and satisfying meal. The eggs and baking powder provide structure and a fluffy texture, while the cinnamon adds a warm and cozy flavor.
Conclusion: This apple cinnamon oatmeal bake is a versatile and nutritious recipe that can be enjoyed any time of day. It’s a great way to start your day with a healthy and satisfying meal. So next time you’re looking for a delicious and easy breakfast option, give this recipe a try!
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?
- Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and liquid content as steel-cut oats take longer to cook.
2. Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
- Yes, pears, peaches, or berries can be used as alternatives.
3. How do I make this recipe vegan?
- Replace the eggs with flax or chia eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flax/chia seeds + 3 tablespoons of water per egg).
4. Can I add sweeteners to this recipe?
- Yes, add honey, maple syrup, or a sweetener of your choice to taste.
5. How do I store leftovers?
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
6. Can I make this recipe without nuts?
- Yes, simply omit the nuts or replace them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
7. How do I know when the bake is done?
- The bake is done when it is golden brown and set in the middle.
8. Can I add protein powder to this recipe?
- Yes, you can add a scoop of your favorite protein powder to the mixture.
9. How do I reheat the oatmeal bake?
- Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
10. Can I use frozen fruits?
- Yes, frozen fruits can be used, but they may add extra moisture, so adjust the baking time if needed.