Hearty Baked Oatmeal with Apples, Bananas, and Walnuts

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This simple and nutritious baked oatmeal is perfect for a quick breakfast or snack. It combines wholesome oats, fresh fruit, and crunchy walnuts for a satisfying and healthy treat. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy a warm, comforting dish that’s both delicious and filling.

Preparation Time:

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (90g) oatmeal
  • 1 cup (240ml) milk
  • 1 apple, chopped
  • 1 banana, mashed
  • Sweetener of choice, to taste
  • 1/4 tsp vanillin or vanilla extract
  • 3 eggs
  • 60g walnuts, chopped

Directions:

  1. Prepare the Base:
    • In a mixing bowl, combine the oatmeal and milk. Let it stand for 10 minutes to allow the oats to absorb the liquid.
  2. Mix the Ingredients:
    • Add the chopped apple, mashed banana, sweetener, vanillin, and eggs to the soaked oats. Mix until well combined.
  3. Add Walnuts:
    • Stir in the chopped walnuts for added crunch and flavor.
  4. Bake:
    • Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 40 minutes, or until golden brown and set.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve warm with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of honey.
  • Top with fresh berries or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor.

Cooking Tips:

  • For a creamier texture, use almond milk or coconut milk instead of regular milk.
  • Add a handful of dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for added sweetness.

Nutritional Benefits:

  • Oats are a great source of fiber and help keep you full longer.
  • Walnuts provide healthy fats and protein, making this a balanced meal.
  • Apples and bananas add natural sweetness and essential vitamins.

Dietary Information:

  • This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free oats.
  • It can be made dairy-free by substituting plant-based milk.

Nutritional Facts (per serving):

  • Calories: 220 kcal
  • Protein: 6g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fat: 10g
  • Fiber: 4g

Storage:

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • It’s quick and easy to make with simple ingredients you likely already have.
  • Perfect for meal prepping—just bake once and enjoy all week.
  • The combination of oats, fruit, and nuts makes it both delicious and nutritious.
  • It’s versatile; you can customize it with your favorite fruits and nuts.

Conclusion: This baked oatmeal recipe is a fantastic way to start your day. It’s full of flavor, packed with nutrients, and easy to make. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or as a grab-and-go breakfast, it’s a satisfying option that you’ll want to make again and again. Plus, it’s a great base for experimenting with different flavor combinations!

Frequently Asked Questions:

  1. Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?
    • Yes, you can use instant oats, but the texture will be softer. Adjust the soaking time accordingly.
  2. Can I add other fruits to this recipe?
    • Absolutely! Berries, pears, or even dried fruits work well in this recipe.
  3. What sweetener works best for this recipe?
    • Any sweetener you prefer, like honey, maple syrup, or sugar, will work. Adjust the amount to taste.
  4. Can I make this recipe vegan?
    • Yes, use a plant-based milk and replace the eggs with a flax or chia seed mixture.
  5. How do I make the oatmeal more flavorful?
    • Add spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or a pinch of cardamom to enhance the flavor.
  6. Can I prepare this the night before?
    • Yes, you can prepare the mixture and refrigerate it overnight. Bake it fresh in the morning.
  7. What can I use instead of walnuts?
    • Pecans, almonds, or even seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds are great alternatives.
  8. Can I freeze this baked oatmeal?
    • Yes, portion it out and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat before serving.
  9. Is it necessary to let the oats soak for 10 minutes?
    • Soaking helps soften the oats, but if you’re short on time, you can skip this step and bake a little longer.
  10. Can I use flavored oatmeal?
    • Flavored oatmeal can be used, but it will change the overall taste. Adjust the sweetener accordingly.

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