This Apple Cranberry Oatmeal Bake is a wholesome and delicious recipe perfect for breakfast or a healthy dessert. Packed with the natural sweetness of apples and bananas, the tartness of cranberries, and the crunch of almonds, this bake is both nutritious and satisfying.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients:
- 220 g (2 1/4 cups) oatmeal
- Olive oil (for greasing the pan)
- 2 large apples, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Vanillin or vanilla extract (to taste)
- 1 banana, mashed
- 80 g (1/2 cup) dried cranberries
- 80 g (1/2 cup) almonds, roughly chopped
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Prepare the Apples:
- Slice the apples thinly and toss them with lemon juice to prevent browning.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, mashed banana, and vanillin or vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine the Dry Ingredients:
- Add the oatmeal, cranberries, and almonds to the wet mixture. Stir until well combined.
- Assemble the Bake:
- Layer half of the apple slices on the bottom of the greased baking dish.
- Spread the oatmeal mixture evenly over the apples.
- Top with the remaining apple slices, arranging them decoratively if desired.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the bake to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup.
- Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or whipped cream for extra creaminess.
- Pair with a side of fresh fruit for a light breakfast.
- Enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy snack.
- Top with extra almonds or a sprinkle of cinnamon before serving.
Cooking Tips:
- Use rolled oats for the best texture; avoid instant oats.
- Substitute cranberries with raisins or dried cherries if desired.
- For added flavor, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the mixture.
- Use walnuts or pecans instead of almonds for a different nutty flavor.
- If using fresh cranberries, slightly increase the sweetener (if desired).
Nutritional Benefits:
- High in dietary fiber from oatmeal, apples, and cranberries.
- Packed with natural sweetness, reducing the need for added sugar.
- Almonds provide healthy fats and a satisfying crunch.
Dietary Information:
- Gluten-free (if using certified gluten-free oats)
- Dairy-free
- Vegetarian
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, based on 6 servings):
- Calories: ~210
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 5g
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
- Freeze individual portions for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Simple to prepare with wholesome ingredients.
- A perfect balance of sweetness, tartness, and crunch.
- Versatile for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
- Naturally sweetened and nutrient-packed.
Conclusion:
This Apple Cranberry Oatmeal Bake is a delightful way to start your day or enjoy a guilt-free dessert. With its combination of fruity, nutty, and hearty flavors, it’s a crowd-pleasing dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Give it a try for a wholesome, comforting treat!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, but the texture may be softer and less chewy. - Can I replace the banana?
Yes, you can substitute with 1/2 cup applesauce or 1/4 cup honey/maple syrup for sweetness. - Can I use fresh cranberries?
Yes, but you may want to add a bit of sweetener to balance their tartness. - What can I use instead of almonds?
Walnuts, pecans, or sunflower seeds work well as substitutes. - Can I make this recipe vegan?
Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg). - Can I add spices to the recipe?
Absolutely! Cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom would enhance the flavor. - What if I don’t have vanillin or vanilla extract?
You can skip it or use a pinch of cinnamon for flavor. - Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate overnight, then bake in the morning. - How do I keep the bake from drying out?
Cover with foil during the first 20 minutes of baking, then remove to brown the top. - What other fruits can I use?
Pears, peaches, or berries are great alternatives to apples.