Baked Oatmeal with Apples: A Warm and Wholesome Treat
Are you craving a cozy breakfast option that’s both nutritious and delicious? Look no further than baked oatmeal with apples in the oven! This comforting dish combines the heartiness of oatmeal with the sweetness of apples, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. In this article, we’ll explore how to make this mouthwatering treat step-by-step, along with some helpful tips and variations to suit your taste buds.
Ingredients
- 110g oatmeal
- 60g butter
- 1 egg
- 50g sugar
- 1 apple
- 50g flour
- Juice and zest of an orange
- 1 tsp. baking powder
- 1 tsp. vanilla sugar
- Raisins and nuts (1 tbsp. each or to taste)
Step-by-Step Recipe
- Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, cream together butter, sugar, vanilla sugar, and egg until smooth. Stir in oatmeal until well combined. Add flour, orange zest, and baking powder, mixing until a smooth batter forms.
- Prepare the Apple Filling: Dice the apple into small pieces. Combine with a handful of raisins, a handful of nuts, and 4-5 tablespoons of orange juice. Mix well.
- Combine and Bake: Gently fold the apple mixture into the oatmeal batter until evenly distributed. Form the mixture into small round cookies and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for approximately 15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Baking Tips
- Adjust Oat Flakes: Depending on the type of oat flakes you use, adjust the quantity accordingly to achieve the desired consistency of the dough.
- Enhance Flavor: Add a dash of cinnamon to the apple filling for extra warmth and flavor.
- Customize Ingredients: Feel free to substitute nuts and raisins with your favorite dried fruits or add fresh or frozen berries for a burst of freshness.
Flavor Variations
- Cinnamon and Nutmeg: Enhance the cozy flavors with a sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg in the batter.
- Maple and Pecan: Drizzle maple syrup over the baked oatmeal and top with toasted pecans for a decadent twist.
- Coconut and Mango: Add shredded coconut to the batter and layer sliced mango on top before baking for a tropical delight.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your baked oatmeal with apples warm, straight from the oven, for the ultimate comfort breakfast. Pair it with a dollop of Greek yogurt, a drizzle of honey, or a splash of milk for added creaminess.
Health Benefits of Baked Oatmeal with Apples
- Fiber-Rich: Oats are packed with fiber, which helps promote digestive health and keeps you feeling full and satisfied.
- Antioxidant-Rich: Apples are rich in antioxidants, which help fight inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.
- Energy Boost: The combination of oats and apples provides a steady release of energy, making it an ideal breakfast option for busy mornings.