This baked apple oatmeal with nuts and cranberries is a delicious and nutritious dish that’s perfect for breakfast or a snack. Combining the natural sweetness of apples with the crunch of nuts and the tartness of cranberries, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. The addition of vanillin and a touch of butter and avocado oil enhances the flavor and texture, making it a delightful treat.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 apples
- 50 ml water
- 1 cup oatmeal
- 50 grams nuts (almonds, walnuts, or hazelnuts)
- A pinch of vanillin
- Butter (amount as desired)
- Avocado oil (amount as desired)
- Cranberries (amount as desired)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Applesauce
- Peel and Chop Apples: Start by peeling and coring the apples. Chop them into small pieces for easier cooking.
- Cook Apples: In a small saucepan, add the chopped apples and 50 ml of water. Cook over medium heat until the apples are soft and easily mashed.
- Mash into Applesauce: Use a fork or potato masher to mash the cooked apples into a smooth applesauce. Set aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Mix Oatmeal and Nuts
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of oatmeal with 50 grams of chopped nuts. Feel free to use your favorite nuts, such as almonds, walnuts, or hazelnuts.
- Add Flavorings: Sprinkle a pinch of vanillin over the mixture for a subtle vanilla flavor. Mix well to evenly distribute the vanilla.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Incorporate Applesauce: Add the prepared applesauce to the oatmeal and nuts mixture. Stir until the ingredients are well combined.
- Add Fats: Incorporate a small amount of butter and avocado oil into the mixture. This will add richness and enhance the texture of the dish.
- Include Cranberries: Fold in cranberries as desired. The cranberries add a sweet-tart burst of flavor and additional nutrients.
Step 4: Bake
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Spread the mixture evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes or until the mixture is golden brown and slightly crispy on top.
Step 5: Serve
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the oatmeal mixture from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy this nutritious and delicious oatmeal dish as a breakfast or snack.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a splash of milk for added creaminess.
- Top with fresh fruit or a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness.
Nutritional Benefits
- Apples: Provide dietary fiber and vitamin C.
- Oatmeal: Rich in fiber, which aids digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight.
- Nuts: Packed with protein, healthy fats, and various essential nutrients.
- Cranberries: High in antioxidants and vitamins.
Dietary Information
- This recipe is vegetarian.
- Can be made gluten-free by using certified gluten-free oats.
- Adjust the amount of butter and avocado oil to suit dietary preferences.
Storage Tips
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
- Nutritious: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats.
- Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even a healthy dessert.
Conclusion
This baked apple oatmeal with nuts and cranberries is a wholesome and delicious dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any time of the day. Enjoy the natural sweetness of apples combined with the crunch of nuts and the tartness of cranberries for a balanced and flavorful treat. Bon appétit!