A wholesome and easy-to-make baked dish featuring oats, apples, and crunchy nuts. This oatmeal apple bake is perfect for a healthy breakfast or a comforting snack that the whole family will enjoy. It’s rich in fiber, healthy fats, and natural sweetness, making it a nutritious and delicious option for any time of the day.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (90g) oatmeal
- 150ml (⅔ cup) warm milk
- 2 apples, peeled and diced
- 1 ½ tablespoons (20g) melted butter
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (or vanillin)
- 2 large eggs
- ⅓ cup (50g) chopped nuts (walnuts, almonds, or pecans)
- Avocado oil (for greasing the baking dish)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F) and grease a baking dish with avocado oil.
- Soften the oats by combining the oatmeal with warm milk in a bowl. Let it sit for a few minutes to soften.
- Prepare the egg mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir in the diced apples and chopped nuts.
- Combine: Add the egg mixture to the softened oatmeal and stir until well combined.
- Bake: Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is firm.
- Cool and serve: Let the dish cool slightly, then slice and serve warm.
Serving Suggestions:
- Drizzle with honey or maple syrup for added sweetness.
- Serve with Greek yogurt for a creamy, balanced breakfast.
- Add fresh fruit like berries or banana slices for extra flavor.
- Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth.
- Pair with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a cozy morning treat.
Cooking Tips:
- You can swap the milk for almond, oat, or coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
- For extra texture, add dried fruits such as raisins or cranberries.
- Substitute the nuts with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds if preferred.
- Use sweet varieties of apples like Fuji or Gala for the best flavor.
- Ensure the bake is golden on top and firm in the center before removing from the oven.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Oats are high in fiber, promoting heart health and stable blood sugar levels.
- Apples provide vitamins, antioxidants, and additional fiber.
- Nuts offer healthy fats, protein, and essential nutrients like magnesium and vitamin E.
- This dish is rich in protein from the eggs and has a balanced mix of carbohydrates and healthy fats.
- Low in added sugars, relying on the natural sweetness of apples.
Dietary Information:
- Contains dairy from butter and milk.
- Contains eggs and nuts, which can be substituted with alternatives like flax eggs and seeds.
- Can be made dairy-free by using plant-based milk and oil instead of butter.
- Gluten-free if certified gluten-free oats are used.
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 240
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Fats: 10g
- Sugar: 8g
Storage:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving for the best taste and texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s a nutritious and filling dish perfect for any time of the day.
- Minimal prep work makes it a quick and easy option for busy mornings.
- It’s versatile—you can customize it with your favorite fruits, nuts, and spices.
- The natural sweetness from the apples makes it a healthy option without refined sugar.
- It’s a family-friendly recipe that everyone will enjoy, from kids to adults.
Conclusion:
This oatmeal apple bake is a wonderfully nutritious and versatile dish that’s perfect for breakfast or a snack. With its comforting flavors, healthy ingredients, and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. You can enjoy it warm out of the oven or save leftovers for a quick meal later. Whether you’re looking for a healthy start to your day or a sweet treat, this dish will deliver both flavor and nutrition.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use instant oats instead of regular oats? Yes, instant oats will work, but the texture will be slightly softer.
- How can I make this recipe vegan? Substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use plant-based milk.
- Can I freeze this dish? Yes, you can freeze individual portions in airtight containers and reheat them in the oven or microwave.
- What kind of apples work best? Sweet apples like Fuji or Gala will give the best flavor, but you can use any variety you prefer.
- Can I add other fruits? Absolutely! You can add berries, pears, or bananas for extra fruit flavor.