This Baked Oatmeal with Carrots, Apples, and Cranberries is a wholesome, nutritious breakfast or snack that’s both satisfying and delicious. The combination of oats, fruit, and spices makes it a comforting dish perfect for any time of the day. With natural sweetness from stevia and the nutritious kick of cranberries, carrots, and apples, this dish is an excellent way to start your day.
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 45 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour
Ingredients
- 2 cups (200g) oatmeal
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 250 ml (1 cup) milk
- 1 medium carrot, grated
- 1 medium apple, grated
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 teaspoon vanillin (or vanilla extract)
- 4 tablespoons sweetener (stevia)
- 40g (1/4 cup) dried cranberries
- Oil for greasing the mold
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (360°F) and grease a baking dish with oil.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the oatmeal and baking powder.
- Add the milk, grated carrot, grated apple, cinnamon, eggs, vanillin, sweetener, and cranberries to the bowl.
- Stir everything until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Bake for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the oatmeal is set.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
- Drizzle with a little maple syrup or honey for extra sweetness.
- Enjoy with a side of fresh berries or fruit.
- Pair with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast.
- Top with chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds for crunch.
Cooking Tips
- Grate the carrot and apple finely so they blend well into the oatmeal.
- Substitute cranberries with raisins or dried cherries if desired.
- Use almond milk or any plant-based milk for a dairy-free version.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less stevia, depending on your taste.
- Let the oatmeal cool completely before slicing for cleaner portions.
Nutritional Benefits
- Oatmeal: High in fiber, supports digestion, and helps in maintaining a healthy heart.
- Carrots: Rich in beta-carotene, good for eye health and immunity.
- Apples: High in antioxidants and fiber, promoting gut health.
- Cranberries: A great source of antioxidants, particularly good for urinary tract health.
- Eggs: Packed with high-quality protein, providing essential vitamins and minerals.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free oats to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Low-Sugar: Sweetened with stevia, making it a lower sugar option.
- High in Fiber: Oats, apples, and carrots are all excellent sources of fiber.
- Dairy-Free: Use a plant-based milk alternative like almond or oat milk.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 6 servings)
- Calories: 190 kcal
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 8g
- Calcium: 80mg
Storage
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Slice the baked oatmeal and freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or in the oven at 180°C (360°F) for 5-10 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and quick preparation make this a convenient recipe.
- Naturally Sweetened: Uses stevia for sweetness, reducing added sugar.
- Versatile: Can be enjoyed as a breakfast, snack, or dessert.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time and enjoy throughout the week.
Conclusion
Baked Oatmeal with Carrots, Apples, and Cranberries is a nutritious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any time of day. With its fiber-rich oats, naturally sweet fruits, and warm spices, this recipe offers a healthy and flavorful start to your morning. It’s easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite mix-ins like nuts or different dried fruits. Whether you’re looking for a hearty breakfast or a nutritious snack, this baked oatmeal is sure to be a family favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats, but the texture may be slightly softer than with rolled oats. - Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake it the night before and enjoy it cold or reheated in the morning. - Can I substitute the eggs?
Yes, for a vegan version, you can substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg). - How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply use certified gluten-free oats to make this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets. - Can I add nuts or seeds to this recipe?
Yes, adding chopped walnuts, almonds, or chia seeds can enhance the nutritional value and add a nice crunch.