The magic of this baked oatmeal lies in its versatility and balance of flavors. The apples lend a natural sweetness and moisture, while the banana adds creaminess. The dried cranberries and raisins contribute delightful bursts of tartness and sweetness with each bite, and the nuts add a satisfying crunch. The cinnamon, while optional, brings warmth and coziness to the dish, making it an ideal breakfast for chilly mornings. Whether served warm from the oven or chilled as leftovers, this baked oatmeal is wholesome and nutritious, packed with fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats from the nuts.
Ingredients:
- 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 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/2 cup (50 g) of your favorite nuts, chopped (walnuts, almonds, or pecans work well)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a medium-sized baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Prepare the apples: Grate the apples using a box grater or food processor. Set them aside. The grated apples will add moisture and natural sweetness to the oatmeal.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, and optional ground cinnamon. Stir together until evenly mixed. This ensures that the oats rise slightly during baking and are infused with flavor.
- Combine the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, mash the banana until smooth. Add the eggs and water, whisking until fully combined. This mixture acts as the binding agent and helps the baked oatmeal hold its shape.
- Add fruit and nuts: To the wet mixture, fold in the grated apples, rinsed cranberries, raisins, and chopped nuts. Gently stir until everything is well incorporated.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until fully combined. The oats should be well-coated, and the fruit and nuts should be evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Transfer to the baking dish: Pour the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly using a spatula or the back of a spoon. If you like, you can sprinkle additional nuts or cinnamon on top for added texture and flavor.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are slightly crisp. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center—it should come out clean.
- Cool and serve: Remove the baked oatmeal from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. This allows it to set, making it easier to slice. Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy it as-is or with a dollop of yogurt, a drizzle of honey, or even a splash of milk.
