Healthy Fruity Oatmeal Casserole

This Fruity Oatmeal Breakfast Bake is a delicious and healthy way to start your day. Packed with nutritious ingredients like oats, fruits, and eggs, it provides a perfect balance of fiber, vitamins, and protein. The sweet and comforting flavors of apricots, raisins, apple, and cinnamon make it an irresistible breakfast option. Easy to prepare and bake, this casserole is ideal for meal prep, ensuring you have a wholesome breakfast ready to go. Enjoy this delightful and nutritious breakfast bake warm, straight from the oven!

 

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups (200 g) rolled oats, chopped in a blender • 1 teaspoon baking powder • 1 cup (240 ml) milk of your choice (dairy or plant-based) • 1 carrot, grated • 9 dried apricots, rinsed with hot water and chopped • 4 tablespoons raisins, rinsed with hot water • 1 apple, grated • 1 teaspoon cinnamon • 3 eggs • 4 tablespoons stevia or other sweetener of your choice • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract • 2 tablespoons olive oil • 18 cm casserole dish

Directions:

Preheat and Prep:

  1. 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. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped oats (using your blender for a finer texture) and baking powder. This forms the base for our healthy cake.

Fruity Fun:

  1. Toss in the grated carrot, chopped dried apricots, rinsed raisins, and grated apple. Mix everything well to ensure even distribution of the ingredients.

Eggcellent Mixture:

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

The Big Mix:

  1. 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. Pour the batter into your greased casserole dish and spread it out evenly.
  2. Let it bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes. Keep an eye on it! The top should turn a beautiful golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

Cool Comfort:

  1. 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.

    Detailed Information:

    Nutritional Benefits:

    This oatmeal bake is loaded with nutritious ingredients. Oats provide essential fiber and energy, while dried fruits like apricots and raisins add natural sweetness and vitamins. Eggs contribute protein, and the use of a sweetener like stevia keeps the sugar content low.

    Ingredient Tips:

    • Oats: Use rolled oats for a chewy texture and blend them for a finer consistency.
    • Fruits: Ensure dried fruits are rinsed with hot water to plump them up and remove any excess sugar.
    • Sweetener: Adjust the amount of sweetener based on your preference.

    Cooking Tips:

    • Blending Oats: Blend the oats to a coarse flour consistency for a better texture.
    • Mixing: Mix the batter gently to avoid overworking and ensure even distribution of ingredients.
    • Baking: Keep an eye on the bake towards the end of the baking time to avoid overbaking.

    Variations:

    • Nutty Addition: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds for extra crunch and protein.
    • Berry Burst: Substitute or add dried cranberries or blueberries for a different fruity flavor.
    • Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for extra warmth and spice.

    Serving Suggestions:

    • Warm with Yogurt: Serve warm with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a splash of milk.
    • Maple Drizzle: Drizzle with a little maple syrup or honey for added sweetness.
    • Fresh Fruit: Top with fresh berries or banana slices for an extra fruit boost.

    Final Thoughts:

    This Fruity Oatmeal Breakfast Bake is a wholesome and satisfying way to kickstart your day. Its combination of oats, fruits, and spices creates a delightful flavor profile that is both comforting and nutritious. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast option or something to enjoy with your morning coffee, this casserole is perfect. Easy to prepare and full of goodness, it’s sure to become a favorite in your breakfast rotation. Bon appétit!