Baked oatmeal with apples and bananas is a comforting and nourishing breakfast that feels like a warm hug in the morning. This recipe is a delightful twist on traditional oatmeal, adding the natural sweetness of bananas, a touch of cinnamon, and the fresh crispness of apples. Each bite combines the earthy warmth of oats, the richness of vanilla, and the cozy aroma of cinnamon, making it perfect for a slow morning or weekend brunch.

Baked oatmeal is a fantastic make-ahead meal as well; it can be prepared the night before, refrigerated, and simply reheated the next morning. Not only is this dish incredibly tasty, but it’s also highly nutritious. The oats provide a good source of fiber and complex carbohydrates, while the bananas, eggs, and milk add protein, potassium, and essential vitamins. This balanced recipe ensures that you start your day with sustained energy, helping you feel full and satisfied.

This recipe has gained popularity because of its ease, versatility, and heartwarming taste. It’s timeless, family-friendly, and suitable for both adults and children alike. As an added benefit, you can customize it to fit any dietary needs, making it a staple for breakfast lovers everywhere.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

Baked Oatmeal with Apples and Bananas

• Rolled Oats – 1 cup (90g)
• Milk – 200 ml (3/4 cup, dairy or plant-based)
• Eggs – 2
• Bananas – 2 ripe (about 200g, mashed)
• Vanillin – 1/2 teaspoon (or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract)
• Apple – 1 (about 150g, peeled and thinly sliced)
• Cinnamon – 1/2 teaspoon

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a small baking dish (about 8×8 inches) with a little butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Mash the Bananas: In a medium bowl, mash the bananas until smooth and creamy. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your oatmeal will be.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

1. Combine Eggs and Milk: In the same bowl, add the eggs and whisk until well combined.
2. Add Milk and Vanilla: Pour in the milk and vanilla extract (or vanillin) and stir to incorporate.

Step 3: Assemble the Dry Ingredients

1. Add Rolled Oats and Cinnamon: Mix in the oats and cinnamon, stirring until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Add the Apple Slices: Fold in the thinly sliced apple pieces, reserving a few slices to place on top for decoration if desired.

Step 4: Bake

1. Pour the Mixture into the Baking Dish: Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish and arrange the reserved apple slices on top.
2. Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and the oatmeal has set.

Step 5: Serve

1. Cool and Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes before cutting into squares. Serve warm, and add a drizzle of honey or a dollop of yogurt if desired.

Prep Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 200 kcal
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fat: 5g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugars: 12g

Servings

• Serves: 4 people

Why This Recipe is Timeless

Baked oatmeal with apples and bananas has been cherished for generations, embodying the essence of simple, wholesome ingredients prepared with love. The timeless appeal of this recipe lies in its flexibility and the fact that it uses pantry staples. It’s a recipe that can be adapted to any season by simply changing the fruits or spices. The combination of oats, milk, eggs, and fruit creates a dish that is both comforting and filling, providing everything needed to start the day off right.

This baked oatmeal is ideal for meal prep, making it convenient for busy mornings, and it’s a meal that can be enjoyed hot or cold. Its warm, inviting flavor and satisfying texture make it a classic breakfast that never goes out of style.

Tips for Making the Perfect Baked Oatmeal

1. Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the more natural sweetness they bring to the dish, reducing the need for added sugars.
2. Customize with Toppings: Try adding nuts, seeds, or a drizzle of honey for added texture and flavor.
3. Experiment with Spices: While cinnamon is a classic choice, you could add nutmeg, cardamom, or even pumpkin spice for variety.
4. Let It Rest: Letting the baked oatmeal sit for a few minutes after baking allows it to set, making it easier to slice.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover baked oatmeal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
• Freezing: Baked oatmeal freezes well. Cut it into portions, wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or in the microwave, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk.

2. What other fruits can I use?
Feel free to replace apples with other fruits like pears, blueberries, raspberries, or even sliced peaches.

3. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free oats, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

4. Can I make this the night before?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Simply pop it in the oven in the morning, and you’ll have freshly baked oatmeal ready in no time.

5. Can I add protein powder?
Yes, you can add a scoop of protein powder to boost the protein content. Add a bit more milk to maintain the right consistency.

Conclusion

Baked Oatmeal with Apples and Bananas is a wholesome, delicious recipe that’s perfect for starting your day on the right note. This dish combines the cozy flavors of cinnamon, apples, and bananas with the nutritious benefits of oats and eggs, making it a balanced meal that both kids and adults will enjoy. The slight crispness on top and tender, moist inside make each bite delightful.

In today’s busy world, recipes like this one provide the comfort of homemade food with the convenience of meal prep. This baked oatmeal will fill your kitchen with a warm aroma and bring everyone to the table for a hearty breakfast. It’s a dish that embodies simplicity, warmth, and tradition, making it a timeless choice for breakfast lovers everywhere. Enjoy it warm with a touch of yogurt or honey, and savor the goodness of this cozy, nourishing meal!