This warm and comforting baked oatmeal combines the sweetness of apples and dried cranberries with hearty oats for a delicious and nutritious breakfast. It’s easy to make and perfect for meal prep or a cozy morning treat.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Ingredients
- 200 g (2 ¼ cups) rolled oats (gluten-free if needed)
- Pinch of salt
- 400 ml (1 ⅔ cups) hot milk or plant milk
- 2 eggs
- 40 g (¼ cup) erythritol sweetener or sugar
- 4 g (1 tsp) cinnamon
- 8 g (1 ¾ tsp) baking powder
- Butter, for greasing
- 1 small apple, chopped
- Handful of dried cranberries
Directions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F).
Step 2: Prepare Oats
- In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats and a pinch of salt.
- Pour hot milk or plant milk over the oats and let soak for 10 minutes.
Step 3: Mix Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs.
- Add erythritol sweetener or sugar, cinnamon, and baking powder to the eggs. Mix until well combined.
- Stir the egg mixture into the soaked oats until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Prepare Baking Dish
- Grease a 19 cm (7.5 in) baking dish with butter.
- Pour the oat mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Step 5: Add Toppings
- Sprinkle the chopped apple evenly over the oat mixture.
- Top with a handful of dried cranberries.
Step 6: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, or until the oatmeal is golden brown and set in the center.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
- Allow the baked oatmeal to cool slightly before serving.
- Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a dollop of yogurt, a drizzle of honey, or a splash of milk.
- Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a hearty breakfast.
- Add fresh fruit like banana slices or berries for extra sweetness.
Cooking Tips
- Use gluten-free oats if required to ensure the dish is gluten-free.
- Substitute erythritol with honey, maple syrup, or brown sugar for a different flavor profile.
- For added texture, sprinkle nuts or seeds on top before baking.
Nutritional Benefits
- Oats: Rich in fiber, promoting heart health and sustained energy.
- Apples: Provide vitamins, antioxidants, and natural sweetness.
- Cranberries: Offer a tangy flavor and are high in antioxidants.
Dietary Information
- Can be made gluten-free (with certified gluten-free oats).
- Suitable for vegetarians.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving – Approx. 6 servings):
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 6 g
- Fat: 5 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 4 g
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple and wholesome ingredients create a delicious, hearty breakfast.
- Perfect for meal prep and easy to reheat for busy mornings.
- Naturally sweetened with fruit and erythritol for a healthier treat.
- Customizable with your favorite fruits, nuts, or spices.
Conclusion
This Baked Apple and Cranberry Oatmeal is a delightful, easy-to-make breakfast that combines the heartiness of oats with the sweetness of apples and cranberries. It’s perfect for starting your day on a nutritious and satisfying note, and it’s a dish the whole family will love.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the soaking and baking times as steel-cut oats take longer to cook. - Can I make this vegan?
Substitute the eggs with flax eggs and use plant milk to make this recipe vegan. - What other fruits can I use?
Try pears, bananas, or blueberries for a delicious variation. - Can I freeze baked oatmeal?
Yes, freeze individual portions in airtight containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving. - What can I use instead of erythritol?
Honey, maple syrup, or regular sugar work as substitutes. - Can I add nuts or seeds?
Yes, chopped walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds make great additions. - Can I prepare this the night before?
Assemble the ingredients in the dish and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh in the morning. - Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if you use certified gluten-free oats. - What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or in a 160°C (320°F) oven for 10 minutes. - Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a larger baking dish and increase the baking time by 5–10 minutes.
Enjoy this warm, comforting baked oatmeal as a wholesome start to your day!