This Baked Oatmeal combines wholesome oats, crunchy nuts and seeds, and naturally sweet fruits like apple and banana for a satisfying and nutritious meal. Whether for breakfast, a midday snack, or dessert, this dish is versatile, healthy, and easy to make.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- Oatmeal: 1 cup + 1/2 cup, divided
- Nuts: 1/2 cup, chopped (walnuts, almonds, pecans, or your choice)
- Sweetener: 1 tablespoon (honey, maple syrup, or stevia)
- Sesame Seeds: 1 tablespoon
- Sunflower Seeds: 1 tablespoon
- Cinnamon: 1/4 teaspoon
- Apple: 1, peeled and chopped
- Banana: 1, mashed
Directions:
- Prepare the Mixture:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (360°F).
- In a large mixing bowl, mix 1 cup oatmeal, chopped nuts, sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, and cinnamon. Stir well.
- Peel and chop the apple into small pieces. In a separate bowl, mash the banana until smooth.
- Add the apple, mashed banana, and sweetener to the dry mixture. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Mix in the additional 1/2 cup of oatmeal to help bind the ingredients.
- Bake the Oatmeal:
- Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared dish. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the mixture is set.
- Serve the Baked Oatmeal:
- Allow the baked oatmeal to cool slightly before slicing into squares or bars. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions:
- Enjoy as is, or top with a dollop of yogurt for added creaminess.
- Drizzle with honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness.
- Serve with a side of fresh fruit for a refreshing contrast.
- Pair with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a cozy breakfast.
- Add a sprinkle of additional nuts or seeds for extra crunch.
Cooking Tips:
- Use a ripe banana for maximum natural sweetness and easy mashing.
- Feel free to customize with additional seeds, nuts, or dried fruits like raisins or cranberries.
- For a more indulgent treat, add a handful of dark chocolate chips to the mixture.
- Ensure the mixture is evenly spread in the baking dish for uniform cooking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Oats: Rich in fiber, promoting heart health and aiding digestion.
- Nuts and Seeds: Provide healthy fats, protein, and essential vitamins.
- Fruits: Add natural sweetness, fiber, and vitamins like vitamin C and potassium.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian-friendly.
- Dairy-free: If yogurt is omitted or replaced with a plant-based option.
- Gluten-free: Use certified gluten-free oats.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 5 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fat: 8 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Sugar: 8 g
Storage:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Simple to prepare with wholesome, pantry-friendly ingredients.
- Packed with nutrients, making it a healthy start to your day.
- Easily customizable to suit personal tastes or dietary needs.
- Great for meal prep and stays fresh for days.
- A delightful combination of crunch, sweetness, and heartiness.
Conclusion:
This Baked Oatmeal with Nuts, Seeds, and Fruits is a versatile and nourishing dish that fits perfectly into any meal plan. Whether you’re fueling up for the day or craving a healthy snack, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. With its delightful flavors and textures, it’s as satisfying as it is nutritious.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I make this recipe vegan? Yes, substitute the sweetener with agave syrup or stevia, and ensure no animal-based products are used.
- Can I use other fruits? Absolutely! Try pears, blueberries, or dried fruits like raisins or apricots.
- Can I skip the nuts? Yes, for a nut-free version, replace nuts with extra seeds or coconut flakes.
- How do I make this recipe gluten-free? Use certified gluten-free oats.
- Can I prepare this ahead of time? Yes, bake it and store it in the fridge. Reheat slices as needed.
- What can I use instead of sesame or sunflower seeds? Chia seeds, flaxseeds, or pumpkin seeds work well.
- Can I freeze this? Yes, portion it out and freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat before serving.
- What if I don’t have a sweetener? Ripe bananas and apples are naturally sweet and may suffice.
- Can I add protein powder? Yes, mix in a scoop of unflavored or vanilla protein powder for an extra boost.
- How do I serve leftovers? Reheat in the oven or microwave, or enjoy cold as a grab-and-go snack.