Oatmeal, Apple, and Nut Bake

Oatmeal, Apple, and Nut Bake

Ingredients:

• • 1 cup (90g) oatmeal

• • 1 glass (240ml) milk
  • 3 apples (approx. 400g, peeled, cored, and blended into a smoothie)
  • 30g (2 tablespoons) butter, divided

• • A pinch of vanillin (or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract)
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon (or to taste)

• • 1 cup (100g) nuts (chopped – e.g., walnuts, almonds, or pecans)
  • 1/2 cup (75g) blueberries (optional)
  • Butter (for greasing the baking dish)

Directions:

1. Prepare the Oatmeal Base:
   • Combine the oatmeal and milk in a bowl. Let it sit and absorb for about 10 minutes.
2. Blend the Apples:
   • • While the oatmeal is soaking, peel, core, and blend the apples until smooth, creating an apple smoothie.

3. Mix the Ingredients:
   • • After the oatmeal has absorbed the milk, add the apple smoothie, eggs, vanillin (or vanilla extract), and cinnamon to the bowl. Mix well to combine.
     • Stir in the chopped nuts and blueberries (if using).

4. Prepare the Baking Dish:
   • • Grease a baking dish with butter.
     • Pour the oatmeal mixture directly into the greased dish.

5. Assemble and Bake:
   • • Dot the top with the remaining butter (cut into small pieces).
     • Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F).
   • Place the dish in the oven and bake for 50 minutes until the top is golden brown and set.
6. Cool:
   • • Once baked, allow the dish to cool completely before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

• • Serve warm with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of honey.
  • Enjoy cold as a snack or a grab-and-go breakfast.

• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a healthy dessert option.
• Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness.

Cooking Tips:

• • Substitute cow’s milk with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.

• • Use a mix of nuts for added texture and flavor.
  • Add a handful of raisins or dried cranberries for extra sweetness.
  • To make it gluten-free, ensure your oatmeal is certified gluten-free.

Nutritional Benefits:

• • High in fiber: Oatmeal and apples provide a great source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion.
  • Rich in healthy fats: Nuts offer heart-healthy fats that support overall well-being.
  • Low in sugar: This recipe relies on the natural sweetness of fruits, making it a low-sugar option.

• Packed with vitamins: Apples and blueberries contribute essential vitamins like vitamin C and antioxidants.

Dietary Information:

• • Vegetarian: This dish is suitable for vegetarians.
  • Gluten-free: Can be made gluten-free by using certified gluten-free oats.

• Dairy-free option: Substitute milk and butter with plant-based alternatives.
• Low in refined sugar: Uses natural sweetness from fruits.

Nutritional Facts (per serving, approximate):

• • Calories: 250

• • Protein: 6g
  • Fat: 14g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g

• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 12g

Storage:

• • Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

• Freeze: Freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat before serving.