This baked oatmeal recipe combines wholesome ingredients like oatmeal, fresh fruits, dried fruits, and nuts to create a nutritious and delicious breakfast or snack. It’s naturally sweetened with fruits and packed with fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats, making it a satisfying and guilt-free choice.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- Oatmeal: 1 ½ cups
- Cranberries: ¼ cup, dried
- Dried Apricots: ¼ cup, chopped
- Nuts: ½ cup (walnuts, almonds, or pecans), roughly chopped
- Banana: 1, sliced
- Apple: 1, chopped into small pieces
- Oat Flakes: ½ cup
Directions
1. Preheat Oven
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F) to ensure it’s ready for baking.
2. Prepare Ingredients
- Slice the banana and chop the apple into small pieces for even distribution.
- Chop the dried apricots into smaller bits to ensure every bite has a touch of sweetness.
- Roughly chop your choice of nuts to add crunch and texture.
3. Mix Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine oatmeal, cranberries, dried apricots, nuts, banana slices, and apple pieces. Mix well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
4. Add Oat Flakes
- Stir in the oat flakes to enhance the texture and help bind the ingredients together.
5. Bake
- Transfer the mixture into a greased or parchment-lined baking dish. Spread it out evenly to ensure consistent baking.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the mixture is set.
6. Cool and Serve
- Allow the baked oatmeal to cool slightly before serving. This step enhances the flavor and makes it easier to slice.
- Enjoy your baked oatmeal warm or at room temperature as a hearty breakfast, snack, or dessert.
Tips for Perfect Baked Oatmeal
- Uniform Slicing: Cut the banana and apple into evenly sized pieces to ensure consistent baking.
- Nutritional Boost: Add 1 tablespoon of chia seeds or flaxseeds for added fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving for a warm, fresh taste.
Nutritional Benefits
- High in Fiber: Oatmeal, oat flakes, and fruits provide a good amount of dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting satiety.
- No Added Sugar: Natural sweetness from fruits replaces the need for refined sugars.
- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Fresh and dried fruits, combined with nuts, deliver essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium.
- Healthy Fats: Nuts add heart-healthy fats that provide long-lasting energy.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a splash of almond milk.
- Top with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for added sweetness.
- Pair with fresh berries or sliced fruit for a vibrant presentation.
- Sprinkle with a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth and flavor.
- Enjoy as a snack on its own or as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla yogurt.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Simple to prepare and bake, ideal for busy mornings or meal prep.
- Nutritious: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats for sustained energy.
- Naturally Sweetened: Relies on fruits for sweetness, making it a healthier choice.
- Customizable: Adaptable with your favorite fruits, nuts, or spices.
- Family-Friendly: A dish that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
Conclusion
This baked oatmeal with fruits and nuts is a versatile and nutritious dish that brings together the natural sweetness of fruits, the crunch of nuts, and the heartiness of oats. It’s perfect for a healthy breakfast or a satisfying snack, offering a balance of flavors and nutrients in every bite.
Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a wholesome and delicious meal that’s as easy to prepare as it is to devour!