Baked Apple Oatmeal Recipe

Introduction

Baked apple oatmeal is a delicious, hearty dish perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a wholesome snack. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of apples with the wholesome goodness of oats, making it a nourishing meal for both adults and children. Not only is it an excellent source of fiber, but it is also incredibly versatile and easy to prepare. Whether you enjoy it warm or cold, baked apple oatmeal can be customized to suit your taste, making it an ideal choice for anyone seeking a healthy start to their day.

Preparation Time

Total Time: 45 minutes

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

For this baked apple oatmeal recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

2 cups rolled oats
2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
2 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced (preferably Granny Smith or Fuji)
1/2 cup brown sugar or maple syrup
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
2 large eggs (optional for additional protein)

Equipment

To prepare baked apple oatmeal, you will need:

1 large mixing bowl
1 measuring cup
1 measuring spoons set
1 whisk or fork
1 9×13 inch baking dish
1 sharp knife and cutting board
1 oven preheated to 350°F (175°C)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your baked apple oatmeal:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your oatmeal cooks evenly and thoroughly.

Step 2: Prepare the Apples

While the oven is preheating, peel, core, and dice the apples into small bite-sized pieces. This allows them to soften and blend into the oatmeal mixture during baking.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, brown sugar or maple syrup, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg (if using). Stir the mixture until everything is evenly distributed.

Step 4: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and eggs (if using). If you prefer a vegan option, simply omit the eggs and ensure you are using a non-dairy milk.

Step 5: Combine the Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir well to combine. Gently fold in the diced apples and chopped nuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Step 6: Prepare the Baking Dish

Lightly grease your 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or a small amount of butter. This will help prevent the oatmeal from sticking.

Step 7: Pour the Mixture into the Dish

Pour the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula if necessary.

Step 8: Bake the Oatmeal

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the mixture is set. You can check if its done by inserting a knife in the center; it should come out clean.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the oatmeal from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows it to set up a bit more for easier slicing.

Variations

Baked apple oatmeal is highly customizable. Here are some variations to try:

Different Fruits: Incorporate other fruits like pears, blueberries, or cranberries for varying flavors and textures.
Nut Butter: Swirl in almond or peanut butter before baking for a protein boost and added creaminess.
Adding Spices: Experiment with different spices like cardamom or ginger for unique flavor profiles.
Sweeteners: Substitute brown sugar with honey or agave syrup for a different degree of sweetness.

Storage

If you find you have leftovers (which is unlikely because its so delicious!), you can easily store Baked Apple Oatmeal. Follow these guidelines:

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.
Freezing: Freeze leftovers in individual portions for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or oven. If its too dry, add a splash of milk before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

Baked Apple Oatmeal is delightful on its own, but consider these serving suggestions for an even more satisfying experience:

With Yogurt: Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt or your favorite plant-based yogurt for added creaminess and protein.
Drizzle of Honey or Maple Syrup: Add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup on top for enhanced sweetness.
Fresh Fruits: Garnish with additional fresh fruits or nuts to elevate the presentation and flavor.
Spices and Seeds: Sprinkle a dash more cinnamon or some chia seeds for added texture and nutrition.

Conclusion

Baked apple oatmeal is the perfect recipe for those seeking a nutritious, flavorful start to their day. With its simple preparation, ability to serve a crowd, and potential for endless variations, youll find it easy to make this dish a staple in your breakfast rotation. Enjoy the delightful blend of flavors and the comfort of baked apples and oats with every delightful bite.