Healthy Baked Oatmeal Delight

Craving a warm and satisfying dessert but looking to avoid refined sugar and flour? This recipe is your answer! Here, we combine the natural sweetness of fruits with the heartiness of oats to create a delicious and healthy baked treat. Packed with grated apples, carrots, and a touch of stevia for sweetness, this oatmeal delight is sure to become a new favorite.

Ingredients:

  • Rolled oats: 2 cups (200 g), chopped in a blender
  • Baking powder: 1 teaspoon
  • Milk of your choice: 1 cup (240 ml) (dairy or plant-based)
  • Carrot: 1, grated
  • Dried apricots: 9, rinsed with hot water and chopped
  • Raisins: 4 tablespoons, rinsed with hot water
  • Apple: 1, grated
  • Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon
  • Eggs: 3
  • Stevia or other sweetener: 4 tablespoons
  • Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
  • Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
  • Casserole dish: 18 cm, greased

Instructions:

Preheat and Prep:

  1. Preheat Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
    • Lightly grease your 18 cm casserole dish with a touch of olive oil for easy removal later.

Oat & Baking Powder Party:

  1. Mix Dry Ingredients:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped oats (using your blender for a finer texture) and baking powder.

Fruity Fun:

  1. Add Fruits and Vegetables:
    • Add the grated carrot, chopped dried apricots, rinsed raisins, and grated apple.
    • Mix everything well to ensure even distribution of the ingredients.

Eggcellent Mixture:

  1. Prepare Wet Ingredients:
    • In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs until light and fluffy.
    • Add the stevia (or your chosen sweetener), vanilla extract, and olive oil.
    • Whisk again until well combined.

The Big Mix:

  1. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
    • Pour the wet egg mixture into the dry oat mixture and fold it in gently with a spatula until everything is fully incorporated. You want a nice, even batter.

Bake it Happen!

  1. Bake the Mixture:
    • Pour the batter into your greased casserole dish and spread it out evenly.
    • Let it bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes. The top should turn a beautiful golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

Cool Comfort:

  1. Cool and Serve:
    • Once the baking time is up, take the casserole out of the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. This gives it time to set properly.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Enjoy warm with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of honey for added sweetness.
  • Pair with a cup of herbal tea or coffee for a delightful breakfast or snack.

Nutritional Benefits:

  • Oats: Great source of dietary fiber, helps regulate blood sugar levels, aids in digestion, and keeps you feeling full longer.
  • Carrot: High in beta-carotene, fiber, and antioxidants.
  • Apple: Rich in fiber and vitamin C, supporting immune function and overall health.
  • Eggs: Packed with high-quality protein, provide essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals.
  • Stevia: A natural sweetener with no calories, making it a healthy alternative to refined sugar.

Dietary Information:

  • Gluten-Free: If you use gluten-free oats.
  • Dairy-Free: Use plant-based milk.
  • Vegetarian: Suitable for vegetarians.

Storage Tips:

  • Refrigerate: Store any leftover oatmeal bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: Reheat in a microwave or oven until warmed through.

Conclusion:

Incorporating this Oatmeal Banana Breakfast Pancake into your breakfast routine is a delicious and healthy way to start your day. Packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, this oatmeal bake is not only nutritious but also incredibly satisfying. The combination of fresh ingredients and the absence of refined sugar and flour makes it a perfect choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. Try this simple and tasty recipe, and enjoy the benefits of a wholesome breakfast every day!