Fruity Oatmeal Bake with Raisins and Cherries

Ingredients

• • 100 g raisins (2/3 cup)
  • 1 cup oatmeal (100 g)

• • 2 apples, peeled and cored
  • 100-120 ml water (1/2 cup)
  • 2 eggs

• • 1 banana, mashed
  • 100 g cherries (2/3 cup)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder

• • Vegetable oil, for greasing the baking dish
  • 50 g Brazil nuts, chopped (1/3 cup)
  • 100 g sultanas (2/3 cup)

Directions

1. 1. Prep the Raisins and Sultanas: Pour boiling water over the raisins and sultanas. Let them soak for a few minutes to soften, then drain and set aside.
   2. Prepare the Oatmeal: Place the oatmeal in a blender and process until it reaches a fine texture.

1. 1. Puree the Apples: In a blender, puree the apples with water until smooth.
   2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pureed apples with eggs. Mash the banana and add it to the mixture. Stir to combine.
   3. Add the Fruits: Add the soaked raisins, sultanas, and cherries to the wet mixture, stirring until evenly distributed.

1. 1. Incorporate the Dry Ingredients: Mix the blended oatmeal and baking powder into the wet mixture until well combined.
   2. Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat the oven to 180°C (360°F). Grease a baking dish with vegetable oil.
   3. Combine and Bake: Pour the batter into the greased baking dish. Sprinkle the chopped Brazil nuts evenly over the top.

1. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown and set in the middle.
2. Cool and Serve: Allow the bake to cool completely before cutting into bars or squares.

Serving Suggestions

• • Enjoy as a healthy breakfast with a dollop of yogurt.
  • Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.
  • Pair with a hot cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon snack.

• Pack as an energy-rich treat for hikes or road trips.
• Drizzle with honey or maple syrup for added sweetness.

Cooking Tips

• • Use overripe bananas for enhanced natural sweetness.
  • Substitute cherries with dried cranberries or fresh berries for variety.
  • Add a pinch of cinnamon for a warm, spiced flavor.

• Line the baking dish with parchment paper for easier removal.

Nutritional Benefits

• • Rich in dietary fiber from oatmeal and fruits.

• Contains healthy fats from Brazil nuts.
• Provides natural sweetness, reducing the need for added sugar.

Dietary Information

• Vegetarian-friendly.
• Can be made gluten-free by using certified gluten-free oats.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

• • Calories: ~180
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g

• Fat: 7 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 12 g