Ingredients

For the Oatmeal Bake:

• 1 cup (100 g) rolled oats
• 3 medium apples, grated
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) water
• 1 banana, mashed
• 3.5 oz (100 g) dried cranberries, rinsed in hot water
• 3.5 oz (100 g) raisins, rinsed in hot water
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
• 1/2 cup (50 g) favorite nuts, chopped (e.g., walnuts, almonds, or pecans)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (356°F). This ensures that the oatmeal bake will cook evenly.
2. Grate the Apples: Wash and peel the apples, then grate them using a box grater or food processor. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Dried Fruits: Rinse the dried cranberries and raisins in hot water to plump them up, enhancing their sweetness and texture.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

1. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated apples, mashed banana, and water. Stir until well blended.
2. Add Eggs: Crack the eggs into the mixture and whisk until fully incorporated. The eggs help bind the ingredients together and add protein.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, optional cinnamon, and chopped nuts.
2. Combine Mixtures: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir gently to combine, ensuring that all the oats and fruits are well mixed.
3. Incorporate Dried Fruits: Finally, fold in the plumped cranberries and raisins, distributing them evenly throughout the mixture.

Step 4: Bake the Oatmeal

1. Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish (approximately 8×8 inches or similar size) with a little oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Transfer the Mixture: Pour the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
3. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

1. Cool: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. This will help the oatmeal set and make it easier to cut.
2. Slice and Serve: Cut into squares or rectangles and serve warm. Enjoy it as is or with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for added sweetness.

Cooking Tips

1. Customize with Spices: Feel free to add other spices like nutmeg or ginger to enhance the flavor profile of the bake.
2. Add Extras: For extra flavor and texture, consider adding shredded coconut, flax seeds, or chia seeds to the mixture.
3. Use Different Nuts: You can swap the nuts for seeds or omit them entirely if you have nut allergies. Sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds work well too.
4. Adjust Sweetness: Depending on the sweetness of your fruits, you may want to add a bit of honey or maple syrup to the mixture if you prefer it sweeter.

Storage

1. Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors continue to meld together, making it even tastier the next day!
2. Freezing: This oatmeal bake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Cut it into portions, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, based on 8 servings)

• Calories: 150 kcal
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fat: 3g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 50mg

FAQs

1. Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

While quick oats can be used, they may result in a softer texture. Rolled oats provide more chewiness, making them ideal for this recipe.

2. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Just ensure you use certified gluten-free oats and check that all other ingredients are gluten-free.

3. What can I substitute for eggs?

If you prefer a vegan option, you can use flaxseed meal or chia seeds. Combine 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal or chia seeds with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens, then add to the mixture.

4. How can I make this recipe nut-free?

Simply omit the nuts or substitute them with seeds, such as sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.

5. Can I add other fruits?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other fruits like blueberries, chopped pears, or peaches for added flavor and variety.

Conclusion

This Oatmeal Apple Raisin Bake is a nutritious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. With its combination of oats, apples, and dried fruits, it’s a wonderful way to start your day or refuel throughout it. Easy to prepare and customize, it’s an ideal recipe for busy families, meal prep enthusiasts, or anyone looking to enjoy a wholesome treat. Whether served warm or chilled, this bake will undoubtedly become a beloved staple in your household. Enjoy this delightful and wholesome dish!