This Apple Walnut Oat Bake is a delightful, wholesome treat that combines the rich flavors of oats, apples, and walnuts with a touch of cinnamon and maple syrup. Perfect as a breakfast option or a cozy dessert, this recipe is easy to prepare and sure to please your taste buds. The optional addition of cocoa adds a unique twist, making this bake even more indulgent.
Preparation Time:
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Prep Time: 10-15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups (150 g) rolled oats
- 1 cup (90 g) walnuts, chopped
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) water
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) coconut oil or melted butter
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F).
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, chopped walnuts, chopped apples, water, cinnamon, and maple syrup. If using, add the cocoa powder. Mix well.
- Add Oil or Butter: Stir in the melted coconut oil or butter until everything is well-coated.
- Bake: Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the apples are tender.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt.
- Drizzle with additional maple syrup for extra sweetness.
Cooking Tips:
- For a crunchier topping, sprinkle extra walnuts on top before baking.
- If you prefer a softer texture, cover the baking dish with foil during the first half of the baking time.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Oats provide fiber and essential nutrients that support heart health.
- Walnuts are rich in healthy fats and antioxidants.
- Apples add natural sweetness and a dose of vitamin C.
Dietary Information:
- This recipe is vegetarian and can be made vegan by using coconut oil instead of butter.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, assuming 6 servings):
- Calories: 220
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg (with coconut oil)
- Sodium: 10mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 4g
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Can be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s a simple, healthy bake that’s both nourishing and satisfying.
- The combination of oats, walnuts, and apples creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
- The recipe is versatile, allowing for easy substitutions to suit your preferences.
- Great for breakfast or as a comforting dessert.
Conclusion: This Apple Walnut Oat Bake is a heartwarming recipe that brings together wholesome ingredients in a delicious and easy-to-make dish. Whether you’re enjoying it as a nutritious breakfast or a cozy dessert, this bake offers the perfect balance of sweetness and crunch. With the added option of cocoa for a chocolatey twist, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of oats, apples, and walnuts in every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
- Yes, but the texture will be softer and less chewy.
- Can I substitute the walnuts with other nuts?
- Absolutely! Pecans or almonds would work well in this recipe.
- Is the cocoa powder necessary?
- No, it’s optional. The cocoa adds a rich chocolate flavor, but the bake is delicious without it too.
- Can I add other spices?
- Yes, nutmeg or cardamom would be great additions for extra flavor.
- What can I use instead of coconut oil?
- You can use melted butter or any other mild-flavored oil.
- Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?
- Yes, honey can be used as a substitute for maple syrup.
- How do I know when the bake is done?
- The top should be golden brown, and the apples should be tender when pierced with a fork.
- Can I add dried fruits to this recipe?
- Yes, dried cranberries or raisins would be a delicious addition.
- Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
- Yes, you can assemble it the night before and bake it fresh in the morning.
- What can I serve this with?
- It pairs well with ice cream, yogurt, or a drizzle of maple syrup.