1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Mash the banana: In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe banana with a fork until smooth. The banana acts as a natural sweetener and helps to bind the oatmeal together.
Dice the apple: Core and dice the apple into small pieces. You can leave the peel on for added fiber and texture, or peel it for a softer bite.
2. Mix the Oatmeal Mixture:
Combine the oats and spices: Add 100 g of oatmeal and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon to the mashed banana in the mixing bowl. Stir to combine the oats with the banana and cinnamon.
Add the apples and oil: Stir in the diced apple and 2 tablespoons of your preferred oil (coconut or olive oil work great). The oil will help keep the baked oatmeal moist and add a subtle richness.
Optional: If you’re using nuts, chop them into small pieces and fold them into the oatmeal mixture. Nuts like walnuts, almonds, or pecans will add a nice crunch and boost the nutritional value with healthy fats and protein.
3. Bake the Oatmeal:
Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a small baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Spread the mixture in the baking dish: Pour the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula to ensure even baking.
Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. The baked oatmeal should feel firm when pressed gently in the center.
4. Cool and Serve:
Once the baked oatmeal is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5-10 minutes. This cooling time helps the oatmeal to firm up and makes it easier to slice.
Serve warm: Cut the baked oatmeal into squares or bars and serve warm. You can enjoy it on its own or top it with a drizzle of honey, extra cinnamon, or a dollop of yogurt.
Cooking Tips
Choosing the Oil: Coconut oil adds a slight sweetness and richness to the baked oatmeal, while olive oil gives it a more neutral flavor. You can also use melted butter or another plant-based oil like avocado oil if you prefer.
Customize the Toppings: Feel free to get creative with the mix-ins and toppings. You can add dried fruits like raisins or cranberries, or even a handful of chocolate chips for a touch of indulgence.
Make it Vegan: This recipe is naturally vegan if you use a plant-based oil like coconut oil. For additional plant-based protein, you could stir in some chia seeds or flaxseeds.
Gluten-Free Option: To make this recipe gluten-free, use certified gluten-free oats. Oats are naturally gluten-free, but some brands may process them in facilities that handle wheat, so it’s important to check the label.
Storage
Refrigeration: Store the baked oatmeal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It makes a great grab-and-go breakfast or snack.
Freezing: You can also freeze the baked oatmeal for up to 2 months. Once cooled, cut it into portions and wrap each piece individually before storing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. To reheat, simply microwave for 1-2 minutes or warm it in the oven.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 6 servings):
Calories: 150 kcal
Protein: 3 g
Fat: 7 g
Carbohydrates: 20 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sugar: 8 g
Sodium: 20 mg
Please note that these values are approximate and depend on portion sizes and specific ingredients used.
FAQs
1. Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?
Rolled oats work best for this recipe because they absorb moisture more easily and create a softer, more cohesive texture. If you want to use steel-cut oats, you’ll need to increase the baking time and possibly add more liquid.
2. Can I substitute the apple or banana?
Yes! You can substitute the apple with pears, peaches, or berries, depending on what’s in season. If you don’t have a banana on hand, applesauce or pumpkin puree can be used as a replacement.
3. How do I reheat the baked oatmeal?
Reheat the baked oatmeal in the microwave for 30-60 seconds, or in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5-10 minutes. Adding a little splash of milk or water before reheating can help keep the oatmeal moist.
4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Baked oatmeal is perfect for meal prep. You can bake it in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer for later. It’s a quick and healthy option for busy mornings.
5. What are some good toppings for this baked oatmeal?
Some popular toppings include a drizzle of honey or maple syrup, fresh fruit like berries or sliced bananas, a spoonful of yogurt, or a sprinkle of additional cinnamon or nuts.
Conclusion
This Baked Oatmeal with Apples, Bananas, and Cinnamon is a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for cozy mornings or a healthy snack. The natural sweetness from the fruits, combined with the rich aroma of cinnamon and the crunch of nuts, makes each bite deliciously satisfying. It’s easy to prepare, nutritious, and can be customized to fit your personal preferences.
Whether you’re enjoying it fresh out of the oven or as a convenient meal-prep option, this baked oatmeal is sure to become a favorite in your breakfast routine. With its fiber-rich oats, fresh fruits, and optional nuts, it offers a balanced start to your day, keeping you full and energized.
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