Baked Oatmeal with Carrots, Apples, and Cranberries
Ingredients
- 2 cups (200g) oatmeal
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 250 ml (1 cup) milk
- 1 medium carrot, grated
- 1 medium apple, grated
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 teaspoon vanillin (or vanilla extract)
- 4 tablespoons sweetener (stevia)
- 40g (1/4 cup) dried cranberries
- Oil for greasing the mold
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (360°F) and grease a baking dish with oil.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the oatmeal and baking powder.
- Add the milk, grated carrot, grated apple, cinnamon, eggs, vanillin, sweetener, and cranberries to the bowl.
- Stir everything until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Bake for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the oatmeal is set.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
- Drizzle with a little maple syrup or honey for extra sweetness.
- Enjoy with a side of fresh berries or fruit.
- Pair with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast.
- Top with chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds for crunch.
Cooking Tips
- Grate the carrot and apple finely so they blend well into the oatmeal.
- Substitute cranberries with raisins or dried cherries if desired.
- Use almond milk or any plant-based milk for a dairy-free version.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less stevia, depending on your taste.
- Let the oatmeal cool completely before slicing for cleaner portions.
Nutritional Benefits
- Oatmeal: High in fiber, supports digestion, and helps in maintaining a healthy heart.
- Carrots: Rich in beta-carotene, good for eye health and immunity.
- Apples: High in antioxidants and fiber, promoting gut health.
- Cranberries: A great source of antioxidants, particularly good for urinary tract health.
- Eggs: Packed with high-quality protein, providing essential vitamins and minerals.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free oats to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Low-Sugar: Sweetened with stevia, making it a lower sugar option.
- High in Fiber: Oats, apples, and carrots are all excellent sources of fiber.
- Dairy-Free: Use a plant-based milk alternative like almond or oat milk.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 6 servings)
- Calories: 190 kcal
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 8g
- Calcium: 80mg
Storage
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Slice the baked oatmeal and freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or in the oven at 180°C (360°F) for 5-10 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and quick preparation make this a convenient recipe.
- Naturally Sweetened: Uses stevia for sweetness, reducing added sugar.
- Versatile: Can be enjoyed as a breakfast, snack, or dessert.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time and enjoy throughout the week.