This Baked Oatmeal with Apples and Cottage Cheese is a nutritious and easy-to-make breakfast or snack. It’s packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making it a satisfying choice for any time of day. The combination of apples, nuts, and cottage cheese adds a delicious balance of sweetness and creaminess, while the oatmeal provides a hearty base. Whether you’re serving it warm or cold, your family will love this wholesome dish!
Preparation Time
- Preparation: 15 minutes
- Cooking: 30 minutes
- Total: 45 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 cup (90 g) oatmeal
- ½ cup (150 ml) warm milk
- 2 apples, peeled and chopped
- 1 tbsp (20 g) butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (or vanillin)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup (50 g) chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts, pecans)
- 1 tbsp avocado oil (or any vegetable oil)
- 1 cup (80 g) oat flakes
- 1 cup (250 g) cottage cheese
- 1 egg (for the cottage cheese mixture)
- 2-3 tbsp sweetener (e.g., honey, maple syrup, or stevia)
- ¼ cup (30 g) coconut flour
- Extra vegetable oil for greasing
Directions
- Prepare the base: In a bowl, combine 1 cup of oatmeal with ½ cup of warm milk and let it soak for 10 minutes.
- Cook the apples: Melt the butter in a frying pan, add the chopped apples, and fry until they are tender. Add vanilla extract for flavor.
- Mix the oatmeal batter: In a mixing bowl, beat 2 eggs, then stir in the nuts, avocado oil, soaked oatmeal, and oat flakes.
- Prepare the cottage cheese layer: In a separate bowl, mix the cottage cheese with 1 egg, sweetener, and coconut flour until smooth.
- Assemble the dish: Grease a baking dish with oil. Pour in the oatmeal mixture as the base, then layer the cottage cheese mixture on top.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 180°C (360°F) and bake for 30 minutes until golden and set.
- Serve: Let the baked oatmeal cool slightly before cutting. Serve warm or cold.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of honey.
- Add a handful of fresh berries or sliced bananas on top for extra flavor.
- For a crunchier texture, sprinkle toasted nuts or seeds on top before serving.
Cooking Tips
- Make sure to let the oatmeal soak in warm milk for 10 minutes to soften it up.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute cottage cheese with plant-based cream cheese and use almond or soy milk.
- If you prefer a sweeter dish, add extra sweetener or sprinkle a little cinnamon over the top.
Nutritional Benefits
- High in Protein: Cottage cheese and eggs provide a good source of protein, helping you stay full for longer.
- Rich in Fiber: Oats and apples are packed with dietary fiber, which supports healthy digestion.
- Low in Added Sugars: The natural sweetness from the apples and your choice of sweetener make this dish a healthier option than traditional baked goods.
- Healthy Fats: The nuts and avocado oil provide heart-healthy fats.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: This recipe contains dairy and eggs but is free from meat.
- Gluten-Free: If using certified gluten-free oats, this dish is suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the cottage cheese and butter with plant-based alternatives.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, makes 6 servings)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 12 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Fats: 12 g
- Sugars: 8 g
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store the baked oatmeal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze individual portions by wrapping them in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 150°C (300°F) for 10 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s easy to make and takes less than an hour from start to finish.
- The combination of apples, oats, and cottage cheese makes it a healthy and balanced meal.
- Versatile and customizable – you can swap ingredients based on your preferences.
- Perfect for meal prep – make a batch at the start of the week for quick breakfasts or snacks.
Conclusion
This Baked Oatmeal with Apples and Cottage Cheese is a deliciously healthy dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. It’s quick to prepare, loaded with nutrients, and can be served warm or cold. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a light dessert, it’s a versatile recipe that fits various dietary needs. Be sure to try it out and enjoy a wholesome meal that’s as comforting as it is nutritious!
10 Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use instant oats instead of regular oatmeal?
Yes, but the texture may be softer. You may want to reduce the soaking time to avoid it becoming too mushy. - Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the cottage cheese with a dairy-free alternative, like vegan cream cheese, and use plant-based milk. - Can I add different fruits?
Yes, pears, bananas, or berries are great alternatives to apples. - What can I use instead of coconut flour?
You can use almond flour, oat flour, or even more oats if coconut flour is unavailable. - Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can make this baked oatmeal in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer for future meals. - Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Definitely! It’s a great, nutritious option for kids and can easily be made sweeter by adding more fruit or sweeteners. - Can I omit the sweetener?
Yes, if you prefer a more naturally sweet flavor from the apples and fruit, you can skip the added sweetener. - What can I use instead of eggs?
You can use flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) as a vegan substitute. - Can I use rolled oats instead of oat flakes?
Yes, rolled oats will work fine. Just make sure to adjust the liquid or cooking time if needed. - What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or in the oven for 10 minutes at 150°C (300°F)