Introduction
Baked oatmeal is a warm, comforting, and nutritious breakfast that can be made ahead of time for busy mornings. This version features sweet apples, ripe bananas, and crunchy walnuts, all baked together with hearty oats for a breakfast that feels like a warm hug. The natural sweetness of the fruit means less added sugar, and the walnuts provide a satisfying crunch along with healthy fats. It’s a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a great way to start the day.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Oatmeal has long been a breakfast staple, particularly in colder climates where a warm, filling meal is essential to start the day. While traditional oatmeal is often prepared on the stovetop, baked oatmeal is a more recent trend that has gained popularity for its ease and versatility. It can be customized with various fruits, nuts, and spices, making it a nourishing dish enjoyed by many cultures for its adaptability and health benefits.
Ingredients (Serves 6)
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk (or any plant-based milk)
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup maple syrup or honey
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 large apple, peeled, cored, and diced
- 1 large banana, mashed
- ½ cup walnuts, chopped
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or coconut oil
Optional Additions
- Dried Fruits: Add raisins, cranberries, or chopped dates for extra sweetness.
- Seeds: Sprinkle chia seeds or flaxseeds into the mix for a nutritional boost.
- Spices: Add a pinch of ground ginger or cloves for a more spiced flavor.
- Coconut Flakes: Add for extra texture and a subtle tropical taste.
Tips for Success
- Use Ripe Bananas: Ripe bananas add natural sweetness and help bind the oatmeal.
- Chop Apples Evenly: Ensure the apple pieces are cut into even chunks so they cook through evenly.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the oatmeal to prevent it from drying out. It should be set and slightly golden on top, but still moist inside.
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch or similar-sized baking dish.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, maple syrup (or honey), vanilla extract, and melted butter (or coconut oil). Stir in the mashed banana until well combined.
- Combine Everything: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients and mix until fully incorporated. Gently fold in the diced apples and chopped walnuts.
- Bake the Oatmeal: Pour the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the oatmeal is set.
- Serve: Let the baked oatmeal cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm, drizzled with extra maple syrup or a dollop of yogurt if desired.
Description
Baked Oatmeal with Apple, Banana, and Walnuts is a wholesome, hearty breakfast dish with layers of flavor. The warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg complement the sweetness of the apples and bananas, while the walnuts add a satisfying crunch. Each bite is filled with comforting flavors, making it a great start to your day. It’s perfect on its own or served with a splash of milk, a drizzle of honey, or a spoonful of yogurt.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~300 kcal
- Protein: ~6