Baked Apple and Banana Oatmeal: A Healthy and Delicious Breakfast for Weight Management

Looking for a breakfast that’s both satisfying and good for you? Look no further than this baked apple and banana oatmeal recipe! Packed with fiber, protein, and healthy fats, this oatmeal bake is a delicious way to start your day and can help support your weight loss goals.

This recipe is perfect for busy mornings. Simply prep the ingredients the night before and bake it in the oven for a warm and comforting breakfast in under 30 minutes. It’s also a great option for meal prepping, as it can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated throughout the week.

Ingredients:

  • 130 grams (1/2 cup) rolled oats
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 medium apple, chopped (any variety!)
  • 1 ripe banana, mashed
  • 25 grams (1/4 cup) chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans, etc.)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a baking dish (a square or round dish will work well).
  2. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats and ground cinnamon. In a separate bowl, mash the ripe banana. Add the mashed banana and chopped apple to the bowl with the oats and cinnamon. Stir everything together until well combined.
  3. Incorporate Nuts: Fold in the chopped nuts of your choice. Almonds, walnuts, and pecans are all great options, and you can experiment with other chopped nuts or seeds if you prefer.
  4. Bake the Oatmeal: Spread the oatmeal mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the oatmeal is golden brown and set. You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the oatmeal. If it comes out clean, the oatmeal is baked through.
  5. Enjoy! Let the oatmeal cool slightly before serving. You can enjoy it warm or at room temperature.

More Information:

  • Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the recipe to your preference. You can add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup to the top of the oatmeal before baking, or sprinkle it with a teaspoon of brown sugar.
  • This recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free rolled oats.
  • For added protein and creaminess, you can stir in a tablespoon of chia seeds or ground flaxseed with the dry ingredients, or add a dollop of Greek yogurt or nut butter on top before serving.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Conclusion:

This baked apple and banana oatmeal is a healthy and delicious way to start your day. It’s packed with nutrients that can help you feel full and satisfied, potentially aiding in weight management efforts when combined with a balanced diet and exercise routine. So ditch the sugary cereals and give this recipe a try! You won’t be disappointed.