This Baked Oatmeal with Apple, Banana, and Walnuts is a nutritious and delicious way to start your day. Packed with wholesome ingredients, it’s easy to prepare and perfect for breakfast or a snack. The combination of oats, milk, fruits, and nuts provides a balanced meal that’s both satisfying and healthy.
Preparation Time:
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Cool Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 cup oatmeal
- 1 glass milk
- 1 apple, chopped
- 1 banana, sliced
- 3 eggs
- Vanillin sweetener (to taste)
- 60g walnuts, chopped
Directions:
- Prepare the Oats:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of oatmeal and 1 glass of milk. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes to allow the oats to absorb the milk.
- Prepare the Fruits:
- Chop the apple into small pieces and slice the banana.
- Mix the Batter:
- After the oats have soaked, add the chopped apple and sliced banana to the bowl. Crack the 3 eggs into the mixture and add the vanillin sweetener to taste. Mix everything well until fully combined.
- Add the Nuts:
- Stir in the chopped walnuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F). Pour the mixture into a baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the baked oatmeal to cool completely before cutting it into squares or slices. Serve as is, or with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of honey for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
- Enjoy warm or cold, depending on your preference.
- Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast.
- Serve with a side of fresh fruit or a dollop of Greek yogurt.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the oatmeal mixture is well-mixed to avoid uneven baking.
- You can add other nuts or dried fruits for added variety and flavor.
- For a vegan version, use plant-based milk and an egg substitute like flax eggs.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Oatmeal: High in fiber and can help lower cholesterol levels.
- Fruits: Apples and bananas provide essential vitamins and natural sweetness.
- Eggs: A great source of high-quality protein and essential nutrients.
- Walnuts: Rich in healthy fats and antioxidants.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians.
- Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free oats if necessary.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute milk with a plant-based alternative.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: The baked oatmeal can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible to everyone.
- Nutritious and Delicious: Combines the health benefits of oats, fruits, and nuts in a tasty dish.
- Versatile: Great for breakfast, snacks, or a healthy dessert.
Conclusion: This Baked Oatmeal with Apple, Banana, and Walnuts is a fantastic addition to your recipe collection. It’s a wholesome, flavorful dish perfect for any time of the day. Enjoy the combination of sweet fruits, crunchy nuts, and hearty oats in this delightful baked treat.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other fruits? Yes, you can substitute apples and bananas with berries, pears, or peaches.
- Can I make this oatmeal ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare it the night before and bake it in the morning.
- Can I add more spices? Absolutely! Cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a bit of ginger would be great additions.
- What if I don’t have walnuts? You can use other nuts like almonds, pecans, or even sunflower seeds.
- Can I make this recipe without eggs? Yes, use flax eggs or chia seeds mixed with water as a substitute for eggs.
- How do I adjust the sweetness? Add more or less vanillin sweetener to taste, or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
- Can I use a different type of milk? Yes, any type of milk or milk alternative will work.
- How should I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month.
- Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, use certified gluten-free oats to make it gluten-free.
- Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe and bake it in a larger dish. Adjust the baking time as needed.