This Baked Oatmeal with Apples and Bananas is a nutritious, flavorful, and satisfying breakfast or snack option. Packed with wholesome ingredients like oats, nuts, and seeds, it’s naturally sweetened with fruit and a touch of honey or maple syrup. Perfect for meal prepping, this baked oatmeal is easy to make, portable, and customizable with your favorite add-ins.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 6
Ingredients
- Oatmeal: 1½ cups (divided into 1 cup and ½ cup)
- Nuts (your choice of walnuts, almonds, pecans): ½ cup, chopped
- Sweetener (honey, maple syrup, or stevia): 1 tablespoon
- Sesame Seeds: 1 tablespoon
- Sunflower Seeds: 1 tablespoon
- Cinnamon: ¼ teaspoon
- Apple: 1 medium, peeled and chopped
- Banana: 1 medium, mashed
Directions
- Prepare the Mixture:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of oatmeal, chopped nuts, sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, and cinnamon. Mix well.
- Peel and chop the apple into small pieces. In a separate bowl, mash the banana with a fork.
- Add the chopped apple, mashed banana, and sweetener to the dry ingredients. Mix thoroughly.
- Add the remaining ½ cup of oatmeal to help bind the mixture.
- Bake the Oatmeal:
- Lightly grease a baking dish with a bit of oil or line it with parchment paper.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the mixture is set.
- Serve:
- Allow the baked oatmeal to cool slightly before slicing it into squares or bars.
5 Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey.
- Pair with a side of fresh fruit or berries for a complete breakfast.
- Enjoy as a snack with a hot cup of tea or coffee.
- Crumble over a bowl of yogurt for a quick parfait.
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a healthy dessert alternative.
5 Cooking Tips
- Use overripe bananas for added natural sweetness and easier mashing.
- For added flavor, mix in a pinch of nutmeg or vanilla extract.
- Substitute seeds or nuts with your favorite dried fruits like raisins or cranberries.
- Ensure the apple pieces are chopped small for even distribution and quicker cooking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh for longer.
Nutritional Benefits
- Oats: High in dietary fiber and beta-glucan, which support heart health.
- Bananas: Provide potassium and natural sweetness.
- Apples: A good source of vitamin C and antioxidants.
- Nuts and Seeds: Add healthy fats and protein for sustained energy.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free oats.
- Dairy-Free: Yes
- Refined Sugar-Free: Yes (when using natural sweeteners).
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 8g
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or microwave before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare with simple ingredients.
- Naturally sweetened with fruit and honey or maple syrup.
- A versatile recipe that’s customizable with different nuts, seeds, or spices.
- Great for meal prep and on-the-go snacking.
- A nutritious, fiber-rich option that keeps you full and satisfied.
Conclusion
This Baked Oatmeal with Apples and Bananas is a wholesome, hearty dish that’s perfect for breakfast or a midday snack. The combination of oats, fruit, and nuts creates a satisfying and flavorful treat, while the natural sweetness from the apples and bananas eliminates the need for refined sugar. Enjoy it warm out of the oven or save it for a grab-and-go option during busy mornings.
10 Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats? Yes, but the texture may be softer and less chewy.
- What other fruits can I use? Pears, blueberries, or chopped peaches work well in place of apples.
- Can I skip the sweetener? Yes, the natural sweetness from the banana and apple is often enough.
- Can I make this recipe vegan? Yes, use maple syrup or agave instead of honey.
- What can I use instead of sesame or sunflower seeds? Chia seeds or flaxseeds are great alternatives.
- Can I use frozen fruit? Yes, but thaw and drain the fruit first to avoid excess moisture.
- How do I make this recipe nut-free? Replace nuts with seeds or additional oatmeal.
- Can I double the recipe? Yes, use a larger baking dish and increase the baking time slightly.
- What’s the best way to reheat it? Warm in the microwave or oven until heated through.
- Can I serve this cold? Yes, it’s delicious cold and makes for a great snack or breakfast on warm days.
Enjoy this wholesome and delicious baked oatmeal for a perfect start to your day! 🥣🍎✨