This comforting oatmeal, apple, and nut bake is a delicious and nutritious way to start your day. Packed with fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats, this dish combines the hearty texture of oatmeal with the smooth sweetness of apple puree and the crunch of nuts. It’s a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed warm or cold, making it perfect for breakfast or as a healthy snack. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this bake is sure to become a family favorite.
Preparation Time:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 50 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (90g) oatmeal
- 1 glass (240ml) milk
- 3 apples (approx. 400g, peeled, cored, and blended into a smoothie)
- 30g (2 tablespoons) butter, divided
- A pinch of vanillin (or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract)
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (or to taste)
- 1 cup (100g) nuts (chopped – e.g., walnuts, almonds, or pecans)
- 1/2 cup (75g) blueberries (optional)
- Butter (for greasing the baking dish)
Directions:
- Prepare the Oatmeal Base:
- Combine the oatmeal and milk in a bowl. Let it sit and absorb for about 10 minutes.
- Blend the Apples:
- While the oatmeal is soaking, peel, core, and blend the apples until smooth, creating an apple smoothie.
- Mix the Ingredients:
- After the oatmeal has absorbed the milk, add the apple smoothie, eggs, vanillin (or vanilla extract), and cinnamon to the bowl. Mix well to combine.
- Stir in the chopped nuts and blueberries (if using).
- Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Grease a baking dish with butter.
- Pour the oatmeal mixture directly into the greased dish.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Dot the top with the remaining butter (cut into small pieces).
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F).
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 50 minutes until the top is golden brown and set.
- Cool:
- Once baked, allow the dish to cool completely before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of honey.
- Enjoy cold as a snack or a grab-and-go breakfast.
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a healthy dessert option.
- Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness.
Cooking Tips:
- Substitute cow’s milk with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
- Use a mix of nuts for added texture and flavor.
- Add a handful of raisins or dried cranberries for extra sweetness.
- To make it gluten-free, ensure your oatmeal is certified gluten-free.
Nutritional Benefits:
- High in fiber: Oatmeal and apples provide a great source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion.
- Rich in healthy fats: Nuts offer heart-healthy fats that support overall well-being.
- Low in sugar: This recipe relies on the natural sweetness of fruits, making it a low-sugar option.
- Packed with vitamins: Apples and blueberries contribute essential vitamins like vitamin C and antioxidants.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: This dish is suitable for vegetarians.
- Gluten-free: Can be made gluten-free by using certified gluten-free oats.
- Dairy-free option: Substitute milk and butter with plant-based alternatives.
- Low in refined sugar: Uses natural sweetness from fruits.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 12g
Storage:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Simple and Quick: Easy to prepare with minimal ingredients and effort.
- Nutritious and Delicious: Combines wholesome ingredients that taste great and are good for you.
- Versatile: Can be customized to suit various dietary needs and preferences.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make ahead and enjoy throughout the week.
Conclusion:
This oatmeal, apple, and nut bake is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will keep you coming back for more. Whether enjoyed warm from the oven or chilled from the fridge, it offers a comforting and nutritious meal or snack. With its versatility and ease of preparation, it’s a dish that suits both busy mornings and leisurely weekends. Give this recipe a try, and it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use steel-cut oats instead of regular oatmeal?
- Yes, but you may need to adjust the soaking and cooking time as steel-cut oats take longer to soften.
- What can I substitute for eggs to make this recipe vegan?
- Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) for each egg.
- Can I use different fruits instead of apples?
- Absolutely! Pears, peaches, or berries would work well in this recipe.
- How do I prevent the top from burning?
- If the top browns too quickly, cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil during the last 20 minutes of baking.
- Can I make this recipe without nuts?
- Yes, simply omit the nuts or substitute them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
- Is it necessary to let the dish cool completely before serving?
- Cooling helps the bake to set, making it easier to slice. However, it can be served warm if you prefer.
- Can I add sweeteners like honey or maple syrup?
- You can, but the natural sweetness from the fruits is usually sufficient.
- How long does this dish stay fresh in the fridge?
- It stays fresh for up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container.
- What’s the best way to reheat this oatmeal bake?
- Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish in a low oven (150°C/300°F) until warmed through.
- Can I prepare this recipe the night before and bake it in the morning?
- Yes, assemble the ingredients in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake in the morning as directed.